Abstract What is learned in EMDR basic training and how that is applied in practice depends on a number of factors, the foremost of which are: 1) the training organization, faculty and materials; 2) the learner's foundational learning, skills and capacities; and 3) environmental factors such as fellow training participants and practice setting. Inevitably, critical concepts and strategies are misunderstood, not applied and quickly forgotten, or missed altogether.
Learning and practice gaps that come to bear in the practice of EMDR therapy to treat complex trauma and dissociative symptoms are not unique to EMDR training. Gaps and biases in the foundational training of most mental health professionals include conceptualization skills, training in recognizing and working with transference and countertransference, and operating within a 3- stage relational frame, among others.
This workshop aims to identify common gaps in foundational learning, understanding, and practice of EMDR therapy that are reflected in the literature and reported by EMDR practitioners. Mis-takes, corrections, and clarifying the scope of treatment throughout all 8 phases and 3 prongs of the standard protocol will be discussed. Literature and examples identifying when the AIP model and EMDR therapy procedures run out of track will assist practitioners to broaden and deepen their conceptualization and skills in their practice, and in their roles as consultants and trainers if applicable.
In sum, this workshop aims to equip participants who have previously completed an accredited basic training in EMDR therapy toward increasing the safety and effectiveness of employing EMDR in their practice. Nuances of basic concepts that apply to working with complex trauma and dissociative disorders are not addressed by most EMDR basic training programs. While there are many documented adaptations and modifications of the standard EMDR protocol and procedures developed for use to treat dissociation, most have little-to-no research base. However, there are some consistent themes that can inform a personalized and attuned approach to employing EMDR therapy - within a broader treatment frame - with this client population.
Learning Objectives:
At the conclusion of this session participants will be able to:
Identify three common mis-takes in post-training practice of standard EMDR therapy
Discuss three prevalent learning gaps related to EMDR therapy and treatment of posttraumatic issues, as represented in the literature
Describe the relationship between scope of treatment plan and scope of preparation for trauma processing
Describe how the discussed learning and practice gaps may impact the safety and effectiveness of EMDR therapy in treating complex trauma and dissociation
Identify how the AIP model and EMDR therapy run out of track conceptually, practically, and technically
