Published in the Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, the peer-reviewed study evaluated the Healing Trauma App Series (HTAS)- four self-guided mobile apps rooted 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 and a range of comorbid conditions, including anxiety, chronic pain, and sleep issues.
The findings were compelling: 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, users experienced better sleep, emotional balance, and pain reduction.
But what makes this study stand out isn’t just the symptom relief- it’s 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 a practical form of 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 simulate aspects of EMDR therapy, a well-established treatment traditionally available only through trained professionals.
The app suite includes:
Anxiety Release- short guided BLS sessions for calming
Overcoming trauma, memory, and emotion processing
Sleep Restore- improving trauma-related sleep disruption
Calm and Confident- building resilience and emotional grounding
Unlike general wellness apps, these were purpose-built for trauma and informed by clinical practice. 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
Mental health professionals increasingly acknowledge the challenge of delivering consistent, affordable trauma care. Digital self-help tools, when backed by research, may help fill the gap.
The study authors recommend a follow-up trial with a larger sample and therapist involvement to validate long-term benefits and improve adherence.
With over 100,000 global downloads and high user ratings, the Healing Trauma App Series is already in the hands of people who might otherwise go without help. This study adds scientific credibility to what many users have reported anecdotally for years.
Contact:
Mark Grant
markgra@ozemail.com.au
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.