IP Requirement: Emory IP

Experience Requirement:

– Rapid prototyping

– Electrical Engineering

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy has long been recognized as an effective approach for treating trauma-related conditions by facilitating adaptive processing of distressing memories. Recent interest has emerged in combining EMDR with vagal stimulation, given the vagus nerve’s central role in regulating autonomic balance, emotional regulation, and fear extinction. Vagal stimulation, through non-invasive methods such as transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS), may enhance parasympathetic activity and reduce hyperarousal, thereby creating a neurophysiological environment that supports the therapeutic mechanisms of EMDR. By calming the body and improving regulation of the stress response, vagal stimulation could make it easier for patients to remain engaged in memory processing without becoming overwhelmed.

The integration of vagal stimulation into EMDR has the potential to increase both the efficiency and accessibility of trauma therapy. Preliminary research suggests that stimulating the vagus nerve can improve neuroplasticity, enhance emotional regulation, and strengthen connectivity between brain regions involved in fear learning and memory reconsolidation. When paired with EMDR’s structured approach to reprocessing traumatic memories, vagal stimulation may deepen the therapeutic effects, reduce treatment time, and provide additional benefit for individuals with severe trauma or treatment-resistant conditions. The goal of this project is to develop a vagal stimulator with the goal of helping patients who are undergoing EMDR therapy.