Sleep: The unrecognized key to stabilization

This session explores the crucial role of normal sleep-wake rhythms in sustaining the adaptive information processing (AIP) model for mental and physical health. Trauma disrupts autonomic regulation and can lead to persistent sleep disturbances such as nightmares, insomnia disorder (ID), and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which can interfere with AIP processing in EMDR therapy. Participants in this symposium will engage in practicum experiences to develop communication strategies for educating clients about sleep health, screen for sleep disorders, and integrate sleep assessments into EMDR treatment planning. Neuroscientific foundations for addressing trauma-related sleep dysregulation in Phase 2 stabilization will be reviewed, emphasizing the importance of restoring autonomic balance. Practical applications include hands-on training in breathing and relaxation techniques to help repair sleep-wake rhythms independent of AIP reprocessing. Through clinical case examples and experiential learning, EMDR therapists will gain tools to enhance stabilization and improve treatment outcomes by systematically addressing sleep disturbances before progressing to Phases 3 through 8.

Conference

English

Jaan Reitav
Celeste Thirwell

Reitav, J., & Thirwell, C. (2019, April). Sleep: The unrecognized key to stabilization. Presentation at the EMDR Canada Annual Conference, Vancouver, BC