Spiritual Foundations in EMDR – May 29, 2026 – Live/Virtual

Description: 

In EMDR, one of the most critical components is establishing a strong and healthy foundation for the therapeutic work. This begins with building rapport, conducting a thorough history-taking process, and developing internal resources. A comprehensive bio-psycho-social-spiritual assessment guides this phase, ensuring that the client is well-prepared for reprocessing. With this foundation, clients are more likely to stay within their window of tolerance able to process without becoming overwhelmed or dissociating.

In this training, we will explore all eight phases of the EMDR protocol, grounded in the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model. You’ll also learn how to thoughtfully integrate your client’s belief systems into the work, even when their theology or understanding of God differs from your own. The goal is to support healing in a way that honors both the EMDR model and the client’s spiritual framework.

The trainer approaches life from a Judeo-Christian faith background, while also bringing extensive experience working with individuals from a variety of spiritual and religious traditions. In this training, we will explore how to engage meaningfully with clients who share our beliefs, as well as those whose faith backgrounds differ from our own with respect, curiosity, and clinical integrity.

Objectives:

1. 1. Identify and apply creative Phase 2 interventions that incorporate the client’s faith as a supportive resource.
   2. Utilize the client’s unique belief system to inform and enhance cognitive interweaves during reprocessing.
   3. Explain the importance of a comprehensive Phase 1 assessment, including the exploration of spiritual development and faith history.
   4. Assess for signs and impact of religious or spiritual trauma as part of case conceptualization.
   5. Describe the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model and its relevance to clients with faith-based worldviews.
   6. Explain the three-pronged approach in EMDR therapy and articulate its significance in creating a complete and effective treatment plan.

Presenter:
Nik Johnson
M.S., LPC-S, REGISTERED PLAY THERAPIST™- SUPERVISOR, EMDR CONSULTANT