What current literature suggests: EMDR-a structured psychotherapy that uses bilateral stimulation (visual, tactile, or auditory)-is guideline-supported for PTSD. Experimental and lab work shows bilateral/dual-attention tasks can reduce the vividness/emotionality of distressing material, and a fear-extinction study specifically supports auditory left-right patterns. The audio here is for relaxation and self-regulation only, not a medical treatment.
American Psychological Association, 2017
Lists EMDR among recommended treatments for adult PTSD. EMDR incorporates bilateral stimulation (visual, tactile, or auditory) within a structured psychotherapy.
NICE Guideline (UK), 2018-current
National guideline that recommends EMDR for adults and children with PTSD, alongside trauma-focused CBT approaches.
World Health Organization, 2013
WHO guidance includes EMDR among interventions for adults with PTSD. EMDR typically uses rhythmic left-right stimulation.
J. Behav. Ther. & Exp. Psychiatry, 2013
Across controlled studies, adding bilateral stimulation (classically eye movements) improved outcomes versus similar protocols without it-supporting an active BLS component.
Frontiers in Psychology, 2018
Reviews proposed mechanisms (working-memory taxation, orienting response) and notes modality flexibility (visual, tactile, auditory) for bilateral stimulation.
Frontiers in Psychology, 2017
Laboratory study showing that alternating left-right auditory stimulation can facilitate fear extinction learning compared with control, consistent with BLS mechanisms.
Frontiers in Psychology, 2020
Experimental work indicating that different dual-attention tasks can reduce vividness/emotionality-supporting the idea that multiple BLS modalities (incl. auditory) can be effective.