Designing and Implementing Effective EMDR Intensives


Workshop Outline

Objectives:

  1. Understand the healing benefits of EMDR Intensives for your clients.

  2. Develop skills to plan and structure EMDR Intensives effectively.

  3. Gain practical experience in delivering EMDR Intensives.

  4. Learn strategies to manage client dynamics, to connect and attune with clients and ensure successful healing outcomes.


Session 1: Introduction to EMDR Intensives

1.1 Overview of EMDR Intensives

  • Definition and purpose

  • Differences between standard EMDR therapy and intensives

  • Typical duration and structure of intensives

1.2 Benefits and Challenges

  • Benefits for clients (e.g., accelerated progress, deep processing)

  • Common challenges and how to address them

  • When to consider an intensive vs. traditional therapy

1.3 Case Examples and Outcomes

  • Brief presentation of case studies

  • Discussion on outcomes and client feedback

Activity: Reflection and Discussion

  • Participants share their experiences with EMDR and discuss potential benefits and challenges of intensives.


Session 2: Planning an EMDR Intensive

2.1 Assessment and Preparation

  • Conducting a thorough intake and assessment

  • Identifying suitable candidates for an intensive

  • Developing a personalized treatment plan

2.2 Structuring the Intensive

  • Determining the number of sessions and their length

  • Setting clear goals and expectations

  • Balancing depth and pace to avoid overwhelm

2.3 Creating a Safe and Effective Environment

  • Ensuring client safety and comfort

  • Establishing grounding and self-care strategies

  • Preparing for potential emotional reactions

Activity: Plan Development

  • Participants work in pairs or small groups to create a treatment plan for a hypothetical case, including scheduling and goal-setting.


Session 3: Techniques and Protocols

3.1 EMDR Protocols and Adaptations

  • Review of standard EMDR protocols

  • Adapting protocols for intensive sessions

  • Using advanced techniques (e.g., resourcing, positive cognitions)

3.2 Managing Intense Processing

  • Techniques for handling emotional intensity

  • Strategies for pacing and reprocessing

  • Incorporating breaks and self-regulation practices

3.3 Addressing Specific Issues

  • Working with complex trauma or multiple issues

  • Modifying approaches for diverse client needs

Activity: Role-Playing and Practice

  • Participants role-play different scenarios, practicing techniques and adaptations.


Session 4: Monitoring and Evaluating Progress

4.1 Tracking Progress and Adjustments

  • Monitoring client progress throughout the intensive

  • Adjusting the treatment plan as needed

  • Identifying signs of progress and when to conclude

4.2 Evaluation and Feedback

  • Gathering and interpreting client feedback

  • Evaluating the effectiveness of the intensive

  • Planning for follow-up and ongoing support

Activity: Case Review and Evaluation

  • Participants review a case example and discuss progress evaluation and adjustments.


Session 5: Practical Considerations and Ethics

5.1 Ethical and Professional Considerations

  • Maintaining ethical standards in intensives

  • Confidentiality and boundary issues

  • Self-care for therapists

5.2 Logistics and Practicalities

  • Scheduling and managing time effectively

  • Handling administrative tasks and documentation

  • Preparing for emergencies or crises

Activity: Discussion and Q&A

  • Open discussion on ethical dilemmas, logistical challenges, and participant questions.


Session 6: Wrap-Up and Resources

6.1 Review and Summary

  • Key takeaways from the workshop

  • Recap of techniques and strategies

6.2 Resources and Further Learning

  • Recommended readings and resources

  • Continuing education opportunities

6.3 Feedback and Evaluation

  • Collecting participant feedback

  • Discussing next steps and ongoing support

Activity: Final Reflections

  • Participants share their main learnings and action plans for implementing EMDR Intensives in their practice.


Workshop format:

  • Designing and Implementing Effective EMDR Intensives

  • Duration: 6 hours

  • Time: 9am-4pm EST (1 hour break for lunch)

  • Investment: $650 per participant 

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