Effect of EMDR for Reduction of Pain Interference in Children With Sickle Cell Disease

Objective: The primary objective of this study is to investigate the efficacy of EMDR therapy in reducing pain interference in the lives of children with SCD. Secondary objectives are to study the efficacy of EMDR in reducing PTSD symptoms, anxiety, depressive symptoms, physical complaints (low mobility), frequency and severity of pain, use of pain medication, and number of days absent from school. Themes of pain and trauma-related memories and feasibility of EMDR therapy for this population will also be explored. Study design: In this single-center randomized controlled trial (RCT) patients (aged 6-18 years) with SCD and clinically relevant scores on PROMIS pain interference will be randomized into an intervention group and waiting list control group. Measurements will be done for the complete study population at inclusion (T0). In the intervention group, measurements will be done 2 weeks (T1i) and 3 months (T2i) after the end of EMDR sessions. Eight weeks after inclusion (T1c) will be performed for participants in the waiting list control group just before they receive EMDR treatment, and they are asked to complete measurements, 2 weeks (T1.1c) and 3 months after the end of EMDR sessions (T2c). Intervention: After the intake session (week 1), including case conceptualization and treatment plan, a maximum of 6 weekly EMDR sessions with a duration of 1 hour per session will be offered. The waiting list control group will wait 9 weeks before starting EMDR therapy.