Group EMDR in high-risk environments: clinical and qualitative findings from G-TEP

Disaster relief professionals face intense psychological demands, including repeated traumatic exposure, high workload, and limited resources, placing them at elevated risk for primary and secondary traumatic stress. This mixed-methods study evaluated the feasibility and effects of the EMDR Group Traumatic Episode Protocol (G-TEP) among relief workers deployed after the February 2023 earthquakes in Türkiye. A total of 125 workers completed baseline assessments, and 8 participants exhibiting PTSD symptoms attended three 90-minute G-TEP sessions. Pre- and post-intervention measurements (PCL-5) demonstrated significant reductions in PTSD symptoms across all clusters. Qualitative analysis using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis revealed themes related to trauma experience, the G-TEP process, and empowerment. Participants reported symptom relief, strengthened professional identity, improved self-care behaviors, and post-traumatic growth. Findings indicate that G-TEP is a feasible, structured, and resource-efficient intervention for high-risk disaster settings, offering both immediate stabilization and longer-term resilience building.