EMDR for addiction and craving: what the evidence shows
Addiction involves substance or behavioural patterns, physical risk, social context and often other mental health problems. A traumatic memory may be relevant without being the sole cause.
Recent meta-analyses signal reductions in craving and emotional symptoms, but overall study quality is low, protocols vary and effects on addiction severity are inconsistent. EMDR should be considered a possible adjunct, not a replacement for withdrawal management, relapse prevention, medical treatment or social support.
Trauma, craving and addiction are different targets
EMDR may address traumatic memories, triggers or images associated with urges. Reducing distress or short-term craving does not establish remission or prevent relapse by itself.
The plan should state which outcome each component addresses.
What recent reviews found
A 2025 review of 14 studies found effects for craving, PTSD, depression and anxiety but not a significant effect on addiction severity; it also noted generally low quality and limited long-term evidence.
Another craving-focused meta-analysis included only five studies, still a small base.
Safety and coordination
Withdrawal, overdose, substance interactions, suicide or violence risk need specialist care. Some withdrawals are medically dangerous and should not be managed through psychotherapy alone.
Coordinate EMDR with addiction medicine, psychiatry or other services where appropriate.
Questions for a practitioner
Ask about addiction and trauma experience, readiness for processing, relapse planning, coordination, measurement of use and craving, and what happens if you arrive intoxicated or in withdrawal.
Be wary of any promise to remove addiction by processing one “addiction memory”.
Frequently asked questions
Does EMDR remove craving?
Some studies report reductions, but this cannot be guaranteed and long-term effects remain unclear.
Can I stop a substance while having EMDR?
Do not plan withdrawal without medical assessment where dangerous withdrawal may occur.
Does EMDR replace addiction treatment?
No. It may be an adjunct within specialist, integrated care.
Sources and scope
Informational content based on guidelines and professional bodies. It does not diagnose, recommend individual treatment or replace clinical assessment.