Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a research-supported psychotherapy that helps people process and recover from trauma and distressing life events. This introductory talk gives mental health professionals a basic understanding of EMDR, covering its theory, main mechanisms and practical use in clinical work.
Participants see how EMDR targets maladaptive memory processing through bilateral stimulation so traumatic memories can resolve in adaptive ways. The session briefly covers the eight-phase treatment protocol, the research on EMDR’s effectiveness and points to consider when bringing EMDR into various therapy settings.
Case examples show how EMDR can treat PTSD, anxiety, depression and other trauma-related conditions. The talk does not provide formal EMDR training, but it gives a useful overview for clinicians who want to broaden their trauma-informed practice.
Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to
- Describe the core principles and mechanisms of EMDR.
- Identify key phases of the EMDR treatment protocol.
- Recognize potential applications of EMDR in clinical settings.
Syllabus:
Introduction
- Welcome and Overview
Objective #1: Understand EMDR’s Theoretical Foundations
- Origins of EMDR and Francine Shapiro’s discovery
- Overview of the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) Model
- Understanding how trauma disrupts memory processing
- The role of Bilateral Stimulation (BLS) and dual attention in reprocessing
Objective #2: Identify and Describe the EMDR Protocol
- Exploration of the 8 Phases
- Clinician’s role in safety, pacing, and case conceptualization
Objective #3: Recognize Clinical Applications of EMDR
- Overview of conditions treated with EMDR
- Research findings and meta-analytic support
- Overview of contraindications and need for stabilization
Objective #4: Apply EMDR Principles in Clinical Conceptualization
- Case vignettes
- Considerations for referrals and additional training
- Settings for EMDR
- Importance of preparation, containment, and resourcing strategies
Key takeaways/Q&A
- Key takeaways and reflections
- Open discussion and final thoughts
Social workers completing this course receive 1.5 Clinical asynchronous continuing education credits.
For other board approvals, this course qualifies for 1.5 hours of Clinical continuing education training.
Instructor: Samantha Silverberg, Ph.D., L.P.C.
Recording Date: April 22, 2025
CEUS On-Demand, LLC, provider #2274, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: 08/7/2026 - 08/6/2027. Social workers completing this course receive 1.5hrs Clinical continuing education credits.
CEUs On-Demand, LLC has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7091. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. CEUs On-Demand, LLC is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.
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Request for Special Accommodations: Learners can request special accommodations by contacting the administrative team at admin@ceus-ondemand.com