Introduction to Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

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How to Take This Course:

• 1 View Course Worksheet -  View the course worksheet or print it out to review later
• 2 Read the Course Material -  As you read through, mark your answers on the course worksheet to be prepared for the exam
• 3 Take Exam -  You must achieve a score of 75% or higher in order to earn credit for the course.
• You don't need to pay for an exam until AFTER you pass it. If you have any questions or need more information, please click here.

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Target Audience: Psychologists
Instructional Level: Introductory

CE Course Description

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is an evidence-based, trauma-focused psychotherapy designed to alleviate distress associated with traumatic memories. Originally developed by Francine Shapiro in 1989, EMDR has gained recognition as an effective treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), complex trauma, anxiety disorders, and other conditions that stem from adverse life experiences (Shapiro, 2018). This therapy operates on the principle of adaptive information processing, allowing clients to reprocess distressing memories, integrate them into their broader life narrative, and reduce the emotional intensity attached to those memories (Shapiro, 2018). As trauma continues to be a global mental health issue, the importance of understanding and practicing EMDR therapy cannot be overstated. This course provides an in-depth introduction to EMDR, covering its theoretical foundations, eight-phase protocol, and practical applications. Participants will also explore cultural and diversity considerations, the integration of technology (such as virtual EMDR), and future directions for this growing field. Grounded in the APA's continuing education guidelines, this course ensures that learners remain current with the latest ethical standards and research advancements in EMDR therapy (APA, 2019). For purposes of this course, the words client and patient will be used interchangeably.  In addition, the words clinician, psychologist,  therapist, provider, and practitioner will also be used interchangeably.  

Courseware Supervisor: Ryan C. Warner, Ph.D., CRC

Author: Jay Trambadia, Psy.D.

CE Course Objectives

1. Understand how EMDR operates on the adaptive information processing model and integrates into evidence-based trauma treatment.
2. Demonstrate knowledge of each phase, from assessment and preparation to desensitization and installation, and their applications to trauma processing.
3. Assess client readiness for EMDR, including understanding contraindications such as dissociation, emotional instability, and complex trauma.
4. Apply principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) to ensure EMDR is effectively tailored to clients from diverse cultural, racial, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
5. Identify and address ethical issues, including informed consent, confidentiality, and therapist competency, while delivering EMDR therapy, in line with APA’s ethical standards.

Activity Schedule/Outline - Ongoing/Self-Paced

Section 1: Why the Focus on Ethics? (20 minutes)

• Importance of Professional Ethics Codes
• Professionalism
• Characteristics of a Professional Relationship

Section 2: Professional Boundaries and Dual Relationships (25 minutes)

• Case Examples (10 minutes)
• How to Decide When to Enter Into a Dual Relationship
• Definitions

Section 3: Ethical Principles for the Substance Use Disorder Profession (40 minutes)

• What Makes Substance Use Disorder Ethics Different?
• Impairment in Decision-Making Capacity
• Substance Use Stigma and Discrimination
• Recovery Language
• Illegal Activity
• Mandated Clients and Coercion
• Case Examples

Section 4: Informed Consent, Privacy, and Confidentiality (30 minutes)

• Informed Consent and Limits to Consent
• Adults Adjudicated Incompetent and Diminished Capacity
• Privacy and Confidentiality

Section 5: Ethical Dilemmas That Impact the Profession (20 minutes)

• Ethical Decision-Making Models

Section 6: Culture and Diversity in Substance Use Disorder Treatment (35 minutes)

• Alcohol Use
• Illicit Drug Use
• Substance Use Disorders and Treatment
• Summary

References (10 minutes) 

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Course Date: 2025-01-15

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