Arabic version: الناجون من الضحايا يطالبون بتغييرات قانونية لتأثير علاج EMDR
Victim-survivors of alleged sexual abuse are raising concerns about the legal implications of receiving Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. Tess Hassell, a woman from Queensland, reported that her investigation into alleged sexual abuse was halted because she had undergone EMDR therapy. This therapy, which involves recalling traumatic memories while engaging in another task, is recognized by organizations such as the World Health Organization for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
According to ABC News, Hassell described the experience of reporting her abuse as both confronting and empowering. The Queensland Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) guidelines classify EMDR as a form of hypnosis, leading to strict conditions that affect the admissibility of evidence obtained after therapy sessions.
Hassell expressed confusion over the decision, stating that she had provided substantial evidence outside of EMDR. She questioned why the justice system has not aligned with current clinical understandings of EMDR and trauma. The Queensland Police indicated that all complaints are reviewed according to policy and DPP guidelines, but they did not comment on individual cases.
The issue has resonated with other victim-survivors across Australia, leading many to delay or avoid seeking EMDR therapy due to fears it could jeopardize their legal cases. Experts, including University of Sydney scholar Christopher Rudge, argue that the legal system’s stance on EMDR is outdated and needs revisiting in light of its endorsement for PTSD treatment.
One Tasmanian woman, awaiting her court appearance, shared that she felt her life was on hold as she waited for permission to undergo EMDR. She noted that her psychologist had been informed that the therapy was discouraged before giving evidence, further complicating her situation. The Tasmanian Office of the DPP stated they could not prevent complainants from undergoing EMDR therapy but would assess its impact on individual cases.
Hassell concluded that EMDR provided her with immediate relief from traumatic memories and called for a change in how the judicial system treats witnesses who have received this therapy.
