Bilateral stimulation – using alternating stimuli on both sides of the body – has been a revolutionary part of modalities that address PTSD, such as EMDR and ART. In this training, we will do a deep dive into Laurel Parnell’s book “Tapping In,” which explains how bilateral stimulation – a powerful resource – can easily be taught to clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, disordered eating, and more. This training will be experiential, with the goal that you learn a wide variety of practical and effective somatic tools, all based on bilateral stimulation, that you can share with your clients.
Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to:
- Identify various manners in which to engage in bilateral stimulation
- Describe the physiological and emotional of effects of engaging in bilateral stimulation
- Describe theories that explain the science behind bilateral stimulation
- Utilize bilateral stimulation for mental health issues such as anxiety, addiction and disordered eating
- Assist clients in employing bilateral stimulation in order to address a variety of mental health issues, including anxiety, addiction, and disordered eating
Syllabus:
Introduction to Bilateral Stimulation (BLS)
- Definition and purpose of BLS in therapeutic settings
- Overview of Tapping In as an attachment-focused technique
- Clinical goals of BLS: relaxation, emotional regulation, cognitive integration
Objective #1: The Science and Theories Behind BLS
- Neurological explanations: hemispheric activation and memory processing
- Working memory theory and dual-task loading
- Emotional distance and desensitization through repetitive stimulation
Objective #2: Core BLS Techniques
- Tapping on knees
- Butterfly hug
- Havening technique
- Two-hand object pass
- EFT-style tapping
Objective #3: Guided Imagery and Resource Building
- Creating and reinforcing nurturing figures and protectors
- Visualizing a Circle of Protection and Safe Space
- Accessing Inner Wisdom, Inner Child, and Inner Helpers
- Recalling comforting and empowering memories
Objective #4: Enhancing Emotional Strength and Resilience
- Building confidence with memories of success and pride
- Role model visualization and goal-oriented imagery
- Safe space within the body and loving-kindness practices
- Gratitude reflection and creation of cue words
Objective #5: BLS Applications in Clinical Practice
- Reducing anxiety and emotional reactivity
- Supporting clients with addiction recovery
- Addressing disordered eating patterns
- Managing chronic pain and physiological stress
Objective #6: Integration and Case-Based Reflection
- Client-centered adaptations of BLS tools
- Developing personalized BLS sequences
- Ethical use and boundaries of trauma processing with BLS
- Q&A, case consultation, and shared reflections
Resources and Continued Learning
- Recommended readings by Laurel Parnell
- Video demonstrations and practice supports
- Further training opportunities in attachment-focused EMDR
Social workers completing this course receive 3 Clinical asynchronous continuing education credits.
For other board approvals, this course qualifies for 3 Clinical continuing education training.
Instructor: Dreya Blume, LCSW
Recording Date: 11/10/2024
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 3hrs 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