Latest news with #HealingTraumaAppSeries
Associated Press
29-07-2025
- Health
- Associated Press
New Research Spotlights Mobile EMDR Apps as a Lifeline for People Facing Barriers to PTSD Treatment
A study shows the Healing Trauma App Series, based on EMDR therapy, can reduce PTSD symptoms by 40%. Created by psychologist Mark Grant, the apps aid those lacking access to therapy and are now backed by research and over 100,000 downloads worldwide. Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, July 29, 2025 -- Melbourne, June 19, 2025 – As mental health systems worldwide struggle to meet rising demand, a new 2025 study highlights a promising digital solution for people living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) especially those unable to access regular therapy. Published in the Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, the peer-reviewed study evaluated the Healing Trauma App Series (HTAS) a suite of four self-guided mobile apps grounded in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) principles. Developed by Australian psychologist Mark Grant, the apps were tested in a pilot randomized controlled trial involving 77 adults with PTSD, many of whom also experienced anxiety, chronic pain, and sleep issues. The Results: Measurable Impact Without Traditional Therapy Participants who used the app series for three months showed a statistically significant reduction in PTSD symptoms, averaging around 40% improvement. In addition to trauma relief, many reported better sleep, emotional regulation, and reduced pain. What makes this study especially noteworthy is not just the symptom relief but who benefited and how. 'We saw real progress in individuals who weren't receiving any other form of therapy at the time,' said lead author and developer Mark Grant. 'These tools show promise as practical support for people who fall through the cracks- whether due to financial, geographic, or systemic barriers.' A Bridge Between Self-Help and Therapy The HTAS apps combine audio guidance, bilateral stimulation (BLS), and trauma-focused imagery to replicate key elements of EMDR therapy, a treatment traditionally available only through trained professionals. The app suite includes: Unlike general wellness apps, these were purpose-built for trauma survivors, informed by clinical experience and EMDR methodology. While not a substitute for in-person therapy, the study suggests they may offer a stepping stone to care or a supplemental tool for those already in treatment. Meeting an Unmet Need With therapy access limited for many due to cost, location, or overloaded systems tools like HTAS may help fill a critical gap in care. Mental health professionals increasingly recognise the role of research-backed digital support in broadening access to trauma care. The study's authors recommend follow-up research with a larger sample size and therapist involvement to explore long-term outcomes and improve adherence. Already in Use- Now Backed by Data With over 100,000 downloads worldwide and consistently high user ratings, the Healing Trauma App Series is already helping people who might otherwise go without support. This study now offers scientific validation to support years of anecdotal success. Contact: Mark Grant Email: [email protected] Study Link Citation: Grant, M., Lau, R. C. K., & DiNardo, J. (2025, April 25). Feasibility and Potential Efficacy of a Mobile App Series Based on Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing: A Pilot Randomized Control Trial with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Comorbid Problems. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 19, Article 0003. About the company: Overcoming Pain is a mental health initiative founded by Australian psychologist Mark Grant. It delivers self-guided tools for trauma‑related distress, chronic pain, anxiety, insomnia, and low self-esteem, focusing on how traumatic stress impacts both body and mind. One of its major foundations is the Healing Traumatic Stress App Series, a suite of mobile applications built on Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) principles and bilateral stimulation (BLS). Each app targets specific symptoms: Anxiety Release: calming sessions to regulate stress responses Sleep Restore: dual-track programs (falling asleep and returning to sleep) blending BLS, guided meditation, and sleep hacks Developed by Mark Grant, who has over 30 years of clinical and research experience in trauma-informed pain treatment, the company blends neuroscience, imagery, self-hypnosis and brain training. We connect users to evidence-based self-help tools, books and audio resources, workshops, therapist supervision, and a rich library of articles on EMDR and trauma recovery. Contact Info: Name: Mark Grant Email: Send Email Organization: Overcoming Pain Address: Melbourne, 1 Holroyd St, Kew, VIC 3101 Phone: +61 402 122 173 Website: Video URL: Release ID: 89165944 In case of identifying any errors, concerns, or inconsistencies within the content shared in this press release that necessitate action or if you require assistance with a press release takedown, we strongly urge you to notify us promptly by contacting [email protected] (it is important to note that this email is the authorized channel for such matters, sending multiple emails to multiple addresses does not necessarily help expedite your request). Our expert team is committed to addressing your concerns within 8 hours by taking necessary actions diligently to rectify any identified issues or supporting you with the removal process. Delivering accurate and reliable information remains our top priority.
Associated Press
27-05-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
EMDR-Based Mobile Apps Show Promise in Reducing PTSD Symptoms
KEW, VICTORIA, AUSTRALIA, May 27, 2025 / / -- A new series of smartphone apps developed by Australian psychologist Mark Grant is delivering promising results for people living with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder ( PTSD ). In a recent pilot study, users who engaged with the apps regularly over three months experienced a 40% reduction in PTSD symptoms, and significantly decreased comorbid health problems. With rates of PTSD on the rise globally due to war, the pandemic, and social unrest, these accessible and affordable tools could mark a breakthrough in how trauma is managed in everyday life. The Healing Trauma App Series ( HTAS ) is designed to address four of the most common problems associated with PTSD: anxiety, medically unexplained pain, insomnia and decreased self-confidence. 1. Anxiety Release App: Targets anxiety associated with PTSD. 2. Overcoming Pain App: Targets pain/medically unexplained symptoms associated with PTSD. 3. Sleep Restore App: Addresses insomnia associated with PTSD. 4. Calm and Confident App: Addresses the impact of trauma and PTSD on identity. In the pilot study, participants who used the app series consistently over three months experienced a remarkable 40% reduction in PTSD symptoms. Physical symptoms commonly linked to trauma, such as sleep disturbances, fatigue and chronic pain, also showed significant improvement. These positive outcomes were largely maintained at a six-month follow-up. The apps proved effective across a wide range of trauma experiences, including childhood abuse, assault, car accidents and medical trauma. Many users found it helpful to use different apps for different issues, tailoring their support to their needs. Notably, participants were more likely to stick with the program when a therapist recommended the apps, highlighting the importance of professional guidance alongside digital support. A larger follow-up study is being planned. The apps are built on the principles of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR ), a cutting-edge trauma therapy that works by helping the brain 'rewire' itself. EMDR targets the neural pathways that store traumatic memories and pain by combining focused attention with rhythmic, bilateral stimulation, such as sound or movement. This dual approach activates both emotional and rational parts of the brain, promoting healing from the inside out. Because it works directly with the brain's natural ability to adapt (neuroplasticity), EMDR has been shown to deliver faster results than traditional therapies like exposure therapy. One app user shared: 'As soon as I hear the bilateral stimulation, I seem to calm down. Having the first calm day in my life, it's a bit unnerving.' Each app in the series is designed to be used on an 'as-needed' basis, giving users the flexibility to manage whatever symptoms they're experiencing in the moment, whether it's anxiety, insomnia, pain, or low confidence. Since trauma symptoms can shift day to day, or even hour to hour, having access to all four apps gives users a personalised toolkit for support whenever they need it. The apps are affordably priced at just USD $5.00 each, or users can access the full bundle for only USD $10.00. In a show of global solidarity, 1,000 downloads were recently donated to Ukrainian citizens and soldiers affected by war-related trauma. For more information visit ENDS For more information, contact Mark on (+61) 0402 122 173 or email [email protected] Zhai Y, Du X. Trends in Diagnosed Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Acute Stress Disorder in US College Students, 2017-2022. JAMA Netw Open. 2024;7(5):e2413874. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.13874 Mark Grant Mark Grant MA +61 402 122 173 [email protected] Visit us on social media: Facebook YouTube Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
