Presenters: Hope Payson, LCSW & Kate Becker, LCSW

Approved for 13 EMDRIA Credits

Treating Substance Abuse and Behavioral Addictions with EMDR Therapy

This workshop will explore the use of EMDR in the treatment of substance and behavioral addictions - specifically with clients who are not yet abstinent or new to recovery - by discussing the unique treatment considerations that arise during each phase of the EMDR protocol when treating this population. Common risk factors and assessment issues, addiction specific resources and preparation work, how to address and desensitize triggers, urges, cravings and "positive feeling states", and the use of the standard EMDR protocol in the treatment of addiction are all taught and highlighted with literature review, case example, demonstration, video clips, practicum and discussion. No modification of phases 3-6 of the standard EMDR protocol are being proposed.