We explore the powerful role of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy in helping veterans heal from trauma, PTSD, and the invisible wounds of war. We sit down with Dr. Timothy Vermillion, a veteran and  EMDR Certified therapist for the Veterans Administration (VA), to discuss how EMDR can offer life-changing results for those struggling with the aftereffects of combat and military service.

We’ll also explore veterans' challenges when navigating the VA, from securing mental health care to understanding the complex processes and systems in place to support them. Whether you’re a veteran, a family member, or someone who works with veterans, this episode offers valuable insights into how EMDR therapy works, how it can be accessed, and how the VA is evolving to better meet the needs of those who’ve served.

Listen in for:

• What is EMDR therapy, and how does it help veterans process traumatic memories?
• Common struggles veterans face when seeking mental health care
• How to navigate the VA system and access the support you need
• Personal stories of veterans who’ve found healing through EMDR

If you or someone you know is a veteran seeking support, this episode provides practical information, expert advice, and inspiration for the road to healing.

Resources

• U.S. Department for Veterans Affairs 
• National Center for PTSD
• EMDR for PTSD, National Center for PTSD video (whiteboard), YouTube, 2018
• The Development and Uses of Blind to Therapists EMDR Protocol, The Journal of EMDR Practice & Research, 2013, 7(2), 95–105.
• Call Sign Wizard Podcast
• What Is EMDR Therapy?
• Focal Point Blog
• EMDRIA Library 
• EMDRIA Practice Resources
• EMDRIA's Find an EMDR Therapist Directory lists more than 16,000 EMDR therapists.
• Follow @EMDRIA on X,  @EMDR_IA on Instagram, Facebook or subscribe to our YouTube Channel.
• EMDRIA Foundation

Musical soundtrack, Acoustic Motivation 11290, supplied royalty-free by Pixabay.

Learn more about EMDR therapy at www.emdria.org.

This thought-provoking episode explores the transformative potential of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy for incarcerated individuals. Join us as we delve into the unique challenges faced by those in prison, including trauma, mental health struggles, and the stigma of incarceration. 1.8 million people are incarcerated in the U.S., and each year, 650,000 people reenter society and return to their communities. Many have high ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences Scores) and childhood neglect histories, contributing to the likelihood of reoffending.

We speak with Dr. Sandra Paulsen and Ret. Lt. Ken Gardner, a 34-year veteran of the Detroit Police Department who became an EMDR therapist, discusses how this innovative therapy can help inmates process traumatic experiences and foster resilience. Tune in to understand the significance of mental health support for those behind bars and the hopeful possibilities that EMDR therapy can offer in breaking the cycle of trauma and recidivism. Whether you are a mental health advocate, a corrections professional, or simply curious about this approach, this episode will inspire you to reconsider the narrative around rehabilitation and healing in the justice system.

Resources

• The EMDR Therapy butterfly hug method for self-administered bilateral stimulation, Jarero, I., & Artigas, L. (2021), Iberoamerican Journal of Psychotraumatology and Dissociation, 10(1).
• How does bilateral stimulation work in EMDR therapy? [video], Miller, P. (2023). Mirabilis Health Institute
• EMDR Therapy for PTSD, Focal Point Blog, June 14, 2024, discusses the ACEs Study. 
• Behind Locked Doors: EMDR Therapists Working with Incarcerated People to Intervene in Generational Trauma and Relieve Suffering [online course for EMDR therapists], The Steve Frankel Group, LLC, EMDRIA Credit Provider.
• Dr. Sandra Paulsen's books mentioned during this episode. 
• Dr. Jaak Panksepp, Panksepp, J., and Biven, L. (2012). The Archaeology of Mind: Neuroevolutionary Origins of Human Emotion. New York: W. W. Norton & Company.
• What Is EMDR Therapy?
• Focal Point Blog
• EMDRIA Library 
• EMDRIA Practice Resources
• EMDRIA's Find an EMDR Therapist Directory lists more than 16,000 EMDR therapists.
• Follow @EMDRIA on X,  @EMDR_IA on Instagram, Facebook or subscribe to our YouTube Channel

Learn more about EMDR therapy at www.emdria.org.

In this enlightening episode, we delve into the transformative world of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, specifically focusing on its impact and benefits for Black women. Join us as we explore how EMDR can be a powerful tool for healing trauma, navigating racial stress, and fostering resilience.

Our guest, a seasoned EMDR therapist, Brittany Johnson, LMHC, shares invaluable insights into how this therapeutic approach works, its effectiveness in addressing complex trauma, and the unique ways it can be tailored to meet the needs of Black women. We discuss the cultural considerations and barriers that might affect therapy and how EMDR can be integrated with culturally responsive practices to support emotional well-being.

Whether you're curious about EMDR, seeking healing, or simply interested in understanding more about mental health care for Black women, this episode offers a rich and empowering conversation. Tune in to discover how this innovative therapy can be a beacon of hope and healing in the journey toward mental wellness.

Resources

• What Is EMDR Therapy?
• Antiracism Resources
• Focal Point Blog
• EMDRIA Library 
• EMDRIA Practice Resources
• EMDRIA's Find an EMDR Therapist Directory lists more than 16,000 EMDR therapists.
• Follow @EMDRIA on X,  @EMDR_IA on Instagram, Facebook or subscribe to our YouTube Channel.
• EMDRIA Foundation

Musical soundtrack, Acoustic Motivation 11290, supplied royalty-free by Pixabay.

Produced by Kim Howard, CAE

Learn more about EMDR therapy at www.emdria.org.

In this powerful episode, we delve into the transformative world of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, tailored explicitly for male veterans. Join us as we explore the unique challenges faced by veterans dealing with trauma and the profound impact EMDR can have on their healing journey. Listen as EMDR therapist Lauren Rich, LCSW, discusses her extensive experience treating male veterans. Discover how EMDR helps to reprocess distressing memories and alleviate trauma symptoms, allowing for a renewed sense of hope and purpose.

Whether you're a veteran, a loved one, or someone interested in mental health, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice on healing. Tune in to learn how EMDR therapy can make a difference in the lives of those who have served.

Resources

• EMDR Therapy and the Military Toolkit (member login req), EMDRIA 
• Introduction to EMDR Therapy video, EMDRIA
• EMDR Therapy Brochures for Clients (member login req), EMDRIA
• What Is EMDR Therapy?
• Focal Point Blog
• EMDRIA Library 
• EMDRIA Practice Resources
• EMDRIA's Find an EMDR Therapist Directory lists more than 16,000 EMDR therapists.
• Follow @EMDRIA on X,  @EMDR_IA on Instagram, Facebook or subscribe to our YouTube Channel.
• EMDRIA Foundation

Musical soundtrack, Acoustic Motivation 11290, supplied royalty-free by Pixabay.

Produced by Kim Howard, CAE

Learn more about EMDR therapy at www.emdria.org.

Families come in many shapes and sizes. No matter how big or small, families matter for many reasons. This episode is dedicated to exploring the transformative power of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy for families. Join us as we delve into how EMDR can help families heal from trauma, improve communication, and strengthen relationships. EMDR Certified Therapist and Consultant Amy Wagner, LMFT, LMHC, discusses how EMDR therapy can heal.

Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or simply interested in family dynamics, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable advice to support your family's emotional healing and resilience journey. Tune in to discover how EMDR can help you and your loved ones build stronger, more connected relationships.

Resources

• How EMDR Therapy Helps Families and Individuals with Disabilities, Family Therapy Magazine, March/April 2024, Volume 23, No. 2
• EMDR Group Therapy, Editors Reg Morrow Robinson and Safa Kemal Kaptan, Springer Publishing, November 2023
• What Is EMDR Therapy?
• Focal Point Blog
• EMDRIA Library 
• EMDRIA Practice Resources
• EMDRIA's Find an EMDR Therapist Directory lists more than 16,000 EMDR therapists.
• Follow @EMDRIA on X,  @EMDR_IA on Instagram, Facebook or subscribe to our YouTube Channel.
• EMDRIA Foundation

Musical soundtrack, Acoustic Motivation 11290, supplied royalty-free by Pixabay.

Produced by Kim Howard, CAE

Learn more about EMDR therapy at www.emdria.org.

An immigrant is someone who comes to live permanently in a foreign country. The United States of America is well known for its rich history of immigrants. That said, not every immigrant's story is the same, no matter the home country they leave or the new country they call home. However, often, their pathways in immigrating from one country to another can be filled with trauma. Can EMDR therapy help? Yes, says Roberto Lara, LCSW.   

We delve into the transformative world of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy and its profound impact on immigrants facing trauma. Join us as we explore how this innovative therapeutic approach helps individuals navigate the complex emotional and psychological challenges often accompanying the immigrant experience.

Learn invaluable insights into how this method can assist immigrants in processing trauma related to displacement, cultural adjustment, and past experiences. We discuss:

• The fundamentals of EMDR therapy and its effectiveness in trauma recovery.
• Unique challenges faced by immigrants, including acculturation stress and past traumas.
• Real-life success stories and case studies illustrating the benefits of EMDR.
• Practical advice for therapists working with immigrant clients.
• Resources and support systems available for immigrants seeking EMDR therapy.

Whether you’re a mental health professional, an immigrant, or simply curious about innovative therapeutic approaches, this episode offers a deep dive into how EMDR can facilitate healing and resilience. Tune in for a compelling conversation that bridges cultural divides and fosters an understanding of mental health.


Resources

• Being Understood as an Immigrant- Liliana Baylon's TEDx Breckenridge
• What Should EMDR Therapists Know about Hispanic or Latinx Populations? Focal Point Blog, EMDR International Association, October 8, 2021. 
• Go With That Magazine®- EMDR International Association
• The Pain We Carry: Healing from Complex PTSD for People of Color (The Social Justice Handbook Series) by Natalie Y. Gutierrez, LMFT
• The Distance Between Us: A Memoir by Reyna Grande
• The Art and Science of EMDR: Helping Clinicians to Bridge the Path from Protocol to Practice by Rotem Brayer
• What Is EMDR Therapy?
• Focal Point Blog
• EMDRIA Library 
• EMDRIA Practice Resources
• EMDRIA's Find an EMDR Therapist Directory lists more than 16,000 EMDR therapists.
• Follow @EMDRIA on X,  @EMDR_IA on Instagram, Facebook or subscribe to our YouTube Channel.
• EMDRIA Foundation

Musical soundtrack,

Learn more about EMDR therapy at www.emdria.org.

We delve into the transformative world of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy and its profound impact on culturally-based trauma and adversity. Join our guest, EMDR Certified Therapist, Consultant, and Trainer Mark Nickerson, LICSW, as we explore how EMDR, a powerful therapeutic approach, can address and heal the deep-seated wounds inflicted by cultural and historical trauma. We will discuss how culturally rooted trauma affects mental health and well-being and how EMDR therapy offers a path to recovery by integrating and respecting cultural contexts.

Expect insightful conversations on:

• The principles of EMDR therapy and its effectiveness in treating trauma.
• The unique challenges faced by individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds.
• Success stories and case studies showcasing the impact of EMDR on culturally based trauma.
• Practical tips for therapists working with clients from various cultural contexts.
• The latest research and developments in the field of trauma therapy.

Resources

• Nickerson, M. (Ed) (2023). Cultural competence and healing culturally based trauma with EMDR therapy: Insights, strategies and protocols. (2017). New York: Springer Books. 
• EMDRAdvancedtrainings.com
• Adverse Childhood Experiences Assessment tool:Widening the Lens on ACEs: The Role of Community in Trauma, Resilience, and Thriving,Health and Wellness Policy Research Group. 
• Understanding How Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACES) Can Affect Children, Kaiser Permanente 
• What Is EMDR Therapy?
• Focal Point Blog
• EMDRIA Library 
• EMDRIA Practice Resources
• EMDRIA's Find an EMDR Therapist Directory lists more than 16,000 EMDR therapists.
• Follow @EMDRIA on X,  @EMDR_IA on Instagram, Facebook or subscribe to our YouTube Channel.
• EMDRIA Foundation

Musical soundtrack, Acoustic Motivation 11290, supplied royalty-free by Pixabay.

Produced by Kim Howard, CAE

Learn more about EMDR therapy at www.emdria.org.

Join us on a transformative journey as we delve into two innovative therapeutic approaches: EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Ketamine-Assisted Therapy.

We uncover the profound impact of EMDR therapy, a method acclaimed for its effectiveness in treating trauma and pain by integrating bilateral stimulation to facilitate emotional processing. We hear from experts who share insights into how EMDR can unlock healing and resilience in individuals.

Additionally, we explore Ketamine-Assisted Therapy, a cutting-edge treatment that combines the use of Ketamine with therapeutic support to address pain and trauma. Our episode with psychiatrist, researcher, and therapist Dr. Yevgeniy Gelfand, MD, and two EMDR therapists, Wendy Byrd, LPC-S, LMFT-S, and Robin Landers, illuminates the science behind Ketamine's role in rewiring neural pathways and its potential to offer rapid relief where traditional therapies fall short.

Discover how EMDR and Ketamine-Assisted Therapy are reshaping the landscape of mental health treatment, one breakthrough at a time.

Resources

• Connected Heart Therapy
• Zen Therapeutic Solutions
• Integral Psychedelic Therapy by Jason A. Butler, Genesee Herzberg and Richard Louis Miller
• How to Change Your Mind: What the New Science of Psychedelics Teaches Us About Consciousness, Dying, Addiction, Depression and Transcendence by Michael Pollan 
• Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS)
• Kriya Institute 
• Ketamine Research Foundation 
• A Dose of Hope: A Story of MDMA-Assisted Psychotherapy by Dr. Dan Engle and Alex Young
• What Is EMDR Therapy?
• Focal Point Blog
• EMDRIA Library 
• EMDRIA Practice Resources
• EMDRIA's Find an EMDR Therapist Directory lists more than 16,000 EMDR therapists.
• Follow @EMDRIA on X,  @EMDR_IA on Instagram, Facebook or subscribe to our YouTube Channel.
• EMDRIA Foundation

Musical soundtrack, Acoustic Motivation 11290, supplied royalty-free by Pixabay.

Produced by Kim Howard, CAE

Learn more about EMDR therapy at www.emdria.org.

Kriss Jarecki, LCSWR, is no stranger to navigating the world with a disability. She is legally blind. However, she also runs a successful therapy practice that includes EMDR. According to the World Health Organization, 16 percent of the global population experience significant disability. How can EMDR therapists treat clients with disabilities? How does virtual therapy impact persons with disabilities? Does the EMDR therapist have to be disabled to help? Find out more in this episode.

Resources

• Bilateral Stimulation.IO
• Free online EMDR Tool- dot 
• Active EMDR DAS Online 
• Barol, B. I., & Seubert, A. (2010). Stepping Stones: EMDR Treatment of Individuals With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and Challenging Behavior. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 4(4), 156–169. 
  August 2014 
• Grant, M.D. Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing treatment of chronic pain. OA Musculoskeletal Medicine, 2014 Aug 17;2(2):17.
• What Is EMDR Therapy?
• Focal Point Blog
• EMDRIA Library 
• EMDRIA Practice Resources
• EMDRIA's Find an EMDR Therapist Directory lists more than 16,000 EMDR therapists.
• Follow @EMDRIA on X,  @EMDR_IA on Instagram, Facebook or subscribe to our YouTube Channel.
• EMDRIA Foundation

Musical soundtrack, Acoustic Motivation 11290, supplied royalty-free by Pixabay.

Produced by Kim Howard, CAE

Learn more about EMDR therapy at www.emdria.org.

Polyvagal theory and EMDR are two well-respected theoretical and practical models with immense implications for therapeutic practice. What is polyvagal theory, and how does it work with EMDR therapy? What should EMDR therapists know about integrating this into their work? How can polyvagal-informed EMDR therapy help to heal trauma? Learn more from Rebecca Kase, LCSW. 

• Kase & Co Resources & Downloads (free)
• Polyvagal-Informed EMDR: A Neuro-Informed Approach to Healing
• Focal Point Blog
• EMDRIA Client Brochures (member login req)
• EMDRIA Library 
• EMDRIA Practice Resources
• EMDRIA's Find an EMDR Therapist Directory lists more than 16,000 EMDR therapists.
• Follow @EMDRIA on X,  @EMDR_IA on Instagram, Facebook or subscribe to our YouTube Channel.
• EMDRIA Online Membership Communities for EMDR Therapists
• EMDRIA Foundation

Musical soundtrack, Acoustic Motivation 11290, supplied royalty-free by Pixabay.

Produced by Kim Howard, CAE

Learn more about EMDR therapy at www.emdria.org.