Efficacy of EMDR Therapy, as Compared to Treatment as Usual, in Reducing Clinical Symptoms in People With HIV

The standard EMDR protocol will first be applied, consisting of 8 phases: 1) Patient history; 2) Patient preparation; 3) Evaluation of the main aspects of the traumatic memory; 4) Desensitization of the memory; 5) Installation of the positive cognition; 6) Body scan; 7) Close and 8) Reevaluation. The specific protocol for the sequelae of somatic illness and medical trauma is next applied. It first focuses on processing past memories related to diagnosis, symptom development, medical procedures and unjust or stressful behaviour with the medical system. Once these are processed, the intervention addresses current symptoms, impairments and triggers. Finally, the patient is helped to face the future and reduce avoidance of medical procedures, avoidance of social life and fear of dying.