EMDR and academic enhancement therapy (AET)

Over two thousand years ago, Plato declared “all learning has an emotional base”, but only recently has evidence started to accumulate to show that our emotions do re-sculpt our neural tissue. Experts in the fields of neurobiology and education now view learning as a multifaceted exchange between cognitive, emotional and physiological elements with emotional intelligence as a significantly greater predictor of success than cognitive intelligence (80% vs 20%)/ EMDR is a “therapy of learning”. As Dr. Shapiro states, “EMDR catalyzes learning”, adding: “Essentially, EMDR facilitates learning on multidimensional emotional, cognitive, and physiological levels”. (Shapiro, 2001). The adaptive information processing model is an adaptive learning model and EMDR is an effective tool in enhancing learning and performance. Academic Enhancement Therapy (AET) is a psychotherapeutic approach aiming at removing the underlying barriers and enhancing positive emotional states associated with leaning and performance, while activating the personal strengths and resources to actualize the person’s full performance potential. This workshop is focused on clinical and conceptual applications of EMDR in improving academic performance. The workshop aims at helping participants learn how to treat the underlying problem of the learning difference that is keeping the student from succeeding in the academic arena, as well as how to develop clients’ strategic use of strengths to foster learning, develop autonomy and understand the relationship between learning and social/emotional functioning.

Conference

English

Sophia Barna

Barna, S. (2016, April). EMDR and academic enhancement therapy (AET). Presentation at the EMDR Association of Canada Conference, Toronto, ON, Canada