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FrancoAngeli Journals

Contributi Scientifici

No. 72 (2025)

Dalla rielaborazione del trauma alla regolazione neurofisiologica: EMDR e Teoria Polivagale nella dipendenza da cocaina

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3280/mis72-2025oa21726
Submitted
dicembre 17, 2025
Published
2026-01-30

Abstract

This paper examines the integration of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy and the Polyvagal Theory in the treatment of cocaine addiction, one of the most complex challenges in the fi elds of psychotherapy and public health. After outlining the severity of the phenomenon in Italy – marked by an increasing health and social impact, a rise in drug-related hospitalizations, and significant involvement of both young people and adults – the theoretical foundations of the two approaches are explored.
The article illustrates this perspective through the clinical case of Vito, a patient with cocaine dependence and a history of early relational trauma, treated with an integrated EMDR-Polyvagal approach within a Gestalt-oriented psychotherapy framework.
The case highlights how the combined work on trauma reprocessing and neurophysiological regulation promotes a reduction in substance use, improved body awareness, relational trust, and emotional self-regulation.
The paper emphasizes the importance of the therapeutic relationship as a space of safety and co-regulation, and the need for an integrated treatment approach that unites neuroscientifi c and humanistic perspectives to foster recovery, autonomy, and quality of life in individuals affected by cocaine addiction.

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