Beyond the DES-II: Screening for Dissociative Disorders in EMDR Therapy

The Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES-II) remains the most widely used brief screening tool for identifying dissociative symptoms despite limitations of instrument and training those who use it. Standard eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR) therapy procedures require a thorough clinical assessment formally presence disorder. This aids development an accurate case conceptualization prior to preparation trauma phases EMDR therapy. Reliance on DES-II mean scores as sole measure features—particularly with persons reporting history early childhood neglect or abuse—is insufficient determine readiness safely traumatic memories. International Society Study Trauma Dissociation (ISSTD) Guidelines Treating Identity Disorder in Adults, Third Revision, noted that employing standard individuals suffering from unrecognized disorder was reported risk significant harm. EMDR-trained clinicians’ practice disorders must evolve beyond casual reliance upon DES-II. Consistent mental status examination reliable diagnostic tools is needed. Several relevant are reviewed their strengths limitations. authors recommend clinicians apply these approaches even when intent screen out whose presenting difficulties lie outside scope research design.