Where do we go for extra resources and support in the “in-between” as an emdr therapist
We hear it all the time that as an EMDR clinician, it's essential to stay up to date with the latest developments and research in the field. We practice being intentional, continuing to grow in our awareness and education. We scan for answers and guidance in consultation with others within our community. Consultation is one of the best ways to learn new information and better help our clients. It is a way to remain connected and continue to sharpen what is in our EMDR toolbox. So what do we do when consultation is not readily or immediately available? Often, I am asked for recommendations on additional or supplemental resources for both clients and clinicians for the “in between times”. Things we can recommend to others to better help make sense of what EMDR is and how it can impact the brain.
Here are some useful EMDR resources, places to visit and considerations that can help you grow as a clinician!
The EMDR Institute: This is the official website of EMDR! The site offers EMDR trainings, workshops, and advanced certifications. It is a great starting point for EMDR clinicians beginning their training and looking for more information/content.
EMDR International Association (EMDRIA): This organization provides certification and continuing education opportunities for EMDR therapists. It is the go to spot for EMDR therapists both beginning and seasoned. The site has a directory of EMDR-certified therapists and offers online resources, including a blog, webinars and a plethora of supplemental material. They have a seasonal magazine with exceptional content called “Go With That” Magazine. If you aren't yet a member, we highly recommend checking them out on your EMDR journey.
Books, books and more books: Some of our favorite books on EMDR for special populations include:
Getting Past Your Past by Francine Shapiro
EMDR and Adjunct Approaches with Children by Ana Gomez
EMDR Therapy and the Art of Psychotherapy by Andrew Leeds.
EMDR for Schizophrenia and other Psychoses by Paul Miller
Healing the Heart of Trauma and Dissociation with EMDR and Ego States by Carol Forgash and Margret Copely
Heal Your Body by Louise Hay
When There Are No Words by Sandra Paulsen on working with preverbal trauma
Integrating Play Therapy and EMDR with Children by Victoria McGuinness on how to bled both modalities in session
Trauma-Informed Yoga: A Toolbox for Therapists: 47 Practices to Calm Balance, and Restore the Nervous System by Joanne Spence
**These books provide a comprehensive overview of the therapy and how the protocol can be adapted individually for the clients we work with!
Additional books and protocols to use with clients:
Dark, Bad Day, Go Away! By Ana Gomez to help explain EMDR to children
A Little Spot of Feelings by Diane Alber is a great phase two books with little kids to help them identify feelings and understand emotions
Calm Ninja by Mary Nhin is a great phase two resource with young children connecting with their emotions and body sensations
The EMDR Coloring Book by Mark Odland
Utilizing the Bottom Up Protocol developed by Ulrich Lanius
Fraser’s Dissociative Table exercise for phase two adapted by Kathleen M. Martin
4. Research Studies: EMDR is backed by research and staying up-to-date with the latest studies is essential for us all when we can find the time. EMDRIA’s website is a great place to get that information but be sure to check out some of these journals that publish EMDR research as well: "Journal of EMDR Practice and Research," "Psychotherapy," and "Journal of Traumatic Stress."
5. Conferences and Workshops: Attending EMDR conferences and workshops (virtual or live) is an excellent way to network with other EMDR therapists and learn about new developments in the community. There are so many trainings each year and the areas of focus are limitless, whether you’re working with children, substance use, sexual abuse, military members, first responders or more, there is something for everyone available. These conferences give us the opportunity to network and connect personally with other members of our EMDR community. They are powerful, not just to receive content but to feel connected and that we aren't alone in the work we do.
6. Our own work: It is important as a trauma therapist to attune to our own needs and continue to do our own work. Whether that is EMDR work ,body work, energy work, Bowen Therapy, acupuncture or any of the other countless forms of healing. It is critical that we continue to take care of ourselves while holding space for others and taking on their stuff.
Check in with yourself!
What addition support do you have within our EMDR community?
How do you stay connected?
What are your go to EMDR supplemental materials?
