EMDR is an arrangement, not an invention. Its components ~ bilateral stimulation, dual attention, systematic desensitization, interweaves, resourcing ~ predate the protocol and work outside it. This training shows you the pieces and how to use them: as standalone tools inside any therapy you already practice, and as modifications for clients the standard protocol was not built for.
The day is split in half. Morning: the conceptual architecture ~ what the components are, how restricted and unrestricted processing differ, and how ABLS works as a regulation tool independent of trauma processing. Afternoon: hands-on practice ~ resourcing with ABLS, behavioral rehearsal, compulsive behavior interventions, and two structured dyad exercises where you practice the sequences with a partner.
You leave with downloadable handouts, a clinical decision framework, and direct experience using these tools. No EMDR credential required. No prior EMDR training assumed.
Upon completion, participants will be able to:
- Identify the historical lineage from Wolpe's systematic desensitization to Shapiro's EMDR and explain why ABLS functions as both a regulation and processing tool.
- Distinguish between restricted and unrestricted processing frameworks and articulate clinical indicators for each.
- Describe the four decision points in complex trauma treatment and apply them to case material.
- Demonstrate at least three imaginal resourcing techniques (Comfortable Place, Triumphant Self, Wise Self) paired with ABLS.
- Execute a complete behavioral rehearsal sequence combining resource installation with ABLS.
- Identify when ABLS accidentally activates the trauma network during resourcing and apply appropriate containment.
- Describe at least two EMDR-based protocols for compulsive behaviors (FSAP, DeTUR) and their clinical indications.
10 modules across two sessions
Downloadable resources
Program title: EMDR Deconstructed: Components, Modification, and Clinical Flexibility
Contact hours: 6.0
Instructional level: Intermediate
Target audience: Licensed mental health professionals (LPC, LCSW, LMFT, psychologists, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses)
Instructional methods: Lecture, video demonstration, experiential exercises, dyad practice, case discussion, Q&A
Interested in hosting this training?
Available for in-person and virtual delivery. Contact Linda to discuss scheduling, group size, and CE arrangements.
All formats use the same clinical content, scaled for depth and practice time. The 3-hour is didactic with one demo. The 24-hour adds daily dyad practice, case consultation, and progressive skill-building.