A combined EMDR/CBT-based approach for the successful management of cyclical vomiting syndrome: a case study

Abstract

Abstract Cyclical vomiting syndrome (CVS) is an extremely debilitating condition that can have an adverse impact on physical health and can significantly disrupt social and occupational functioning. It is a poorly understood illness in terms of aetiology, and most research has focused on the pharmacological management of the condition. This article describes a case study of a combined cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR)-based intervention with an adult with past trauma who had a 20-year history of CVS accompanied by high cannabis use. Therapy led to improvements in physical health and social functioning, reduced use of cannabis, and a significant reduction in the frequency and severity of vomiting episodes and associated hospital admission. Implications for future research and management of the illness are discussed. Key learning aims (1) To understand how the presence of co-morbid untreated trauma in individuals with CVS may result in unhelpful coping strategies that can worsen the course of the illness. (2) To explore how the addition of psychological therapy to routine care of gastrointestinal disorders such as CVS can improve treatment outcome. (3) To consider how offering an individualised and flexible approach to appointments may benefit individuals who find it more difficult to engage in psychological therapy.