EMDR for complex trauma: Incorporating polyvagal & parts work in treatment

As clinicians face increasing cases of complex trauma, integrating EMDR with polyvagal theory and parts work offers tools for effective treatment. This training explores modifications to EMDR’s standard protocol to better support clients with complex trauma and dissociation. In this presentation, we will use Fraser’s dissociative table technique (“meeting place”), a tool designed to enhance EMDR effectiveness when working with complex trauma, and we will also focus on integrating parts work and polyvagal theory throughout all eight phases of EMDR to provide stabilization, trauma processing, and overall client healing. In addition, attendees will gain an understanding of polyvagal theory by identifying the three primary autonomic states and will practice interventions to regulate nervous system responses. This training will also provide clinicians with practical, research-based interventions to enhance EMDR outcomes for clients with complex trauma. Participants will leave with applicable skills designed to help clients regulate, engage in deeper trauma work, and heal more effectively.

Conference

English

Farnsworth Lobenstine
Paula Merucci

Lobenstine, F., & Merucci, P. (2025, September). EMDR for complex trauma: Incorporating polyvagal & parts work in treatment. Presentation at the 30th annual EMDRIA conference, Anaheim, CA