When the mind reprocesses the night: A clinical case study on eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy for idiopathic nightmare disorder

Abstract Introduction Nightmare Disorder (ND) is a prevalent sleep disorder linked to nocturnal and daytime impairments. Image Rehearsal Therapy (IRT) shows moderate effects, and evidence for other psychological interventions, including eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), remains scarce in adults with idiopathic ND (IND). Methods This case study explored EMDR therapy's potential for treating IND. Nightmare symptoms, nightmare‐related distress, and sleep quality were assessed pre‐ (T1) and post‐intervention (T2). Results Score changes were clinically meaningful and reliable within a 95% confidence interval, with T2 scores falling within the normative range. Conclusions Specialized nightmare treatment reduces functional impact and chronicity; further investigation of EMDR therapy could improve intervention.