Former JEMDR Editor, Dr. Louise Maxfield, Dies

(November 27, 2023)

Dr. Louise Maxfield, the former editor of the Journal of EMDR Practice & Research, died on November 13, 2023. EMDRIA learned about her death over the Thanksgiving weekend. Her obituary can be found here. The family asks that donations be made to the Canadian Cancer Society in her name.

“On behalf of the EMDRIA Board and membership as a whole, we express our sadness at the loss of Louise. She was instrumental in developing EMDR through her work as the journal editor. She also chaired the EMDR Council of Scholars, leading the international collaboration in the further development of EMDR,” said EMDRIA Board President Marisol Erlacher, LPC.

Dr. Maxfield spent 15 years as the JEMDR editor. This excerpt from the Go With That magazine article, “Dr. Louise Maxfield Career Retrospective: Leaving Her Mark on EMDR Practice and Research,” Summer 2021, Volume 26, Issue 3. Members may log in to read the entire article here.

“Dr. Maxfield believed that publishing strong well-written articles and studies would have a positive influence on EMDR’s status in the wider world. So, she used her role as editor as an opportunity to mentor authors and researchers and made a consistent effort to educate others about writing styles as well as publication and research standards. Like Dr. Shapiro, she strongly encouraged research and has consulted in the planning of numerous research projects.

She is also an advocate for EMDR innovations, has supported various innovations and research, and works with EMDR early interventions. Her most recent article calls for the development and research of therapist-guided EMDR self-help applications. As a strong advocate for humanitarian efforts, Dr. Maxfield believes that it is essential for EMDR therapy to become more accessible, available, and affordable for millions of people around the world.

Dr. Maxfield has been awarded many awards for her academic excellence and research competence. In 2008, EMDRIA awarded her the Francine Shapiro Award for her outstanding contribution and service to EMDR. She received the Research Award from EMDRIA (2001) and EMDR Canada (2003) for her excellence in EMDR Research. She has a long list of publications on subjects ranging from EMDR humanitarian projects to explaining the effects of eye movements from a working memory perspective to the treatment of recent traumas and community disasters, etc. She has done many plenary and keynote presentations on EMDR for EMDR Canada and EMDRIA. She has also referred many conference presentations for these organizations. She has given more than 100 presentations on radio and television and to public groups and organizations concerning mental health, trauma, abuse, posttraumatic stress, parenting, and related issues.”

 

October 2023: Annual Membership Meeting

EMDRIA held its Annual Membership Meeting virtually on October 24, 2023. Click the "View Meeting" button below to view the recording. (Members must log in to watch.)

How EMDRIA Aids EMDR Therapists Treating War Anxiety

(October 12, 2023)

EMDRIA has published a blog post, War Anxiety: How EMDR Therapists Can Help, regarding the recent outbreak of war between Hamas and Israel. As an organization, we abhor the hatred and racism that divide people, and we long for peace and an embracing of our shared humanity.

EMDRIA Announces 2023 Award Winners

(August 25, 2023)

EMDRIA gave the following awards at its Annual Conference in Arlington, Virginia. 

EMDRIA Names Diane DesPlantes the 2023 Advocacy in EMDR Award Winner

EMDRIA has named Diane DesPlantes the 2023 Advocacy in EMDR Award Winner. DesPlantes is an EMDR-certified therapist, consultant, and trainer. She has served on the EMDRIA Board of Directors. She continues in a leadership role within the online EMDRIA diversity, community, and culture community.

This award recognizes her outstanding efforts and unwavering commitment to advocating for the advancement of EMDR, with a particular focus on supporting black, indigenous people of color (BIPOC) EMDR therapists.

“Diane’s dedication and tireless work in the realm of advocacy has not only made a significant impact on the EMDR community but have also played a crucial role in creating a more inclusive and equitable space for BIPOC EMDR therapists. Her advocacy efforts have helped shed light on the unique challenges faced by our community and have worked toward ensuring our voices are heard, our experiences are acknowledged, and our contributions are valued. This award is a testament to Diane’s exceptional advocacy work, which has not only raised awareness about the needs of BIPOC EMDR therapists but has also paved the way for meaningful change and increased opportunities within the EMDR field. Her tireless efforts have demonstrated a deep commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within EMDRA and the broader EMDR community. Her advocacy has not gone unnoticed, and the impact of her work will continue to resonate for years to come,” said EMDRIA Board President Marisol Erlacher, LPC.

 

EMDRIA Names Carol Miles the 2023 Outstanding Contribution to EMDRIA Award Winner

EMDRIA has named Carol Miles, MSW, LCSW, the 2023 Outstanding Contribution to EMDRIA Award Winner. Miles served on the EMDRIA Board of Directors for five years and as its president for two years. She guided the organization through the COVID-19 global pandemic and helped the organization develop its anti-racist efforts during her term as president. 

 This award is a testament to her exemplary leadership, outstanding service contributions, and the significant positive impact she has made on EMDRIA. Miles is a clinical social worker specializing in trauma and works in an EMDR-intensive format. She is a certified EMDR therapist, an EMDRIA-approved consultant, and an EMDRIA-approved basic trainer. Miles is so dedicated to the organization that when a former board member resigned, she agreed to step in and fill out that term after her board service ended. 

“Carol’s dedication and commitment to the betterment of EMDRIA have not gone unnoticed. Her unwavering support and encouragement have inspired others to strive for excellence, and her commitment to long-term benefits for EMDRIA as a whole is truly commendable. This award recognizes individuals who go above and beyond in promoting and modeling strong collaboration at all levels of EMDRIA. Her efforts have not only contributed to the growth and success of our organization but have also played a vital role in shaping its future. Carol’s outstanding contributions have made a fundamental positive impact, leaving an indelible mark on EMDRIA and its members,” said EMDRIA Board President Marisol Erlacher, LPC.  

 With more than 30 years of experience as a clinician and a graduate of the Louisiana State University School of Social Work specializing in clinical social work, she maintains a private while using her extensive experience to teach and train other practitioners with her Three Rivers Training Center. She helped to create the South Louisiana Regional EMDR Network to develop a sense of community among EMDR therapists in her community in 2017 and continues to support the current steering committee. Her career has been dedicated to working with others and helping other colleagues succeed.  

 

EMDRIA Names Ana M. Gomez, the 2023 Francine Shapiro Award Winner

EMDRIA has named Ana M. Gomez, Pllc, the 2023 Francine Shapiro Award Winner. Gomez is an EMDR-certified therapist, trainer, and consultant. She specializes in the most vulnerable of our population: children.

The Francine Shapiro Award holds a special place of honor among the recognitions bestowed upon individuals who have displayed outstanding service to EMDRIA. It serves as a symbol of the highest level of excellence and distinction in the field.

“Ana’s unwavering dedication and tireless efforts have gone above and beyond, making a profound difference in the advancement and betterment of the EMDR community. This award is a testament to the significant impact she has made, leaving an indelible mark on the practice and understanding of EMDR. Ana’s service and contributions have not only exceeded expectations but have also set a new standard for what can be achieved through dedication, innovation, and a deep commitment to the EMDR community. Ana’s exceptional service has not gone unnoticed, and her work has undoubtedly made a significant difference, not only within EMDRIA but also for the broader EMDR community. Her exemplary efforts have touched the lives of countless individuals, fostering growth, healing, and transformation. Through her extraordinary contributions, she has furthered the mission of EMDRIA and advanced the field of EMDR in ways that are truly remarkable,” said EMDRIA Board President, Marisol Erlacher, LPC.

The Francine Shapiro Award is named after Dr. Francine Shapiro, who discovered the connection between eye movement and persistent, upsetting memories. She developed eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy that has helped more than seven million people worldwide recover from their trauma.

Revocation of EMDRIA Credentials

(August 17, 2023)

On July 10, 2023, Lillian Ramey voluntarily surrendered her LCSW issued through the Colorado Division of Professions and Occupations. The Terms and Conditions for EMDR Trainers state, “EMDR Trainer status is contingent upon and remains in effect only if the individual remains in good standing with all regulatory entities which license, register, or certify them as a prerequisite to practicing in their primary profession.” Additionally, EMDRIA’s Professional Code of Conduct stipulates that members remain in good standing with their licensing and/or regulatory body. As a result, Lillian Ramey is no longer affiliated with EMDRIA as a Member, EMDR Certified Therapist, EMDR Consultant & EMDR Trainer, effective July 10, 2023.

EMDR Kazakhstan Becomes an EMDRIA Affiliate

(August 7, 2023)

The EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) is thrilled to announce that EMDR Kazakhstan (EMDRK) is now an affiliate of EMDRIA. As an affiliate, EMDRK will have access to the following EMDRIA benefits for their members:

  • Members-only access to the EMDRIA website for resources.
  • Individual EMDRK member listings in the Find an EMDR Therapist Directory.
  • Reduced rates for EMDRIA programs, products, and services.
  • Online access to all EMDRIA publications.

“As the president of EMDRIA, I am excited about our new affiliation with EMDR Kazakhstan. This partnership marks a significant milestone in our journey to expand our international footprint. In the vast tapestry of human resilience and healing, each thread contributes to the whole. Today, with EMDR Kazakhstan, we weave a new thread, a testament to our unwavering commitment to making EMDR therapy accessible across all borders and cultures,” said Marisol Erlacher, board of directors’ president, EMDRIA.

“We are excited to begin our affiliation and collaboration with EMDRIA. We look forward to continuing our growth and support of EMDR in Kazakhstan and elsewhere together,” said Aigerim Tymoschchuk, president and founder of EMDRK.

In addition to EMDR Kazakhstan, EMDR Canada is also an affiliate.

EMDRIA remains open to collaboration and partnership with our colleagues, and we want to work together to advance EMDR globally. We believe we are stronger together than we are alone. For more information about an EMDR organization becoming an affiliate, please reach out to info@emdria.org.

International FAQ

EMDRIA has long had reciprocal membership, so those trained by recognized trainers of other regional EMDR organizations would be eligible for EMDRIA membership. Our colleagues in other regional associations do not reciprocate or honor this idea. EMDRIA remains open to collaboration and partnership with our colleagues, and we want to work together to advance EMDR globally. We believe we are stronger together than we are alone, and there are more significant issues at stake for EMDR than reflected in a conflict over membership policies. Below are detailed answers about why EMDRIA has withdrawn from the EMDR Global Alliance.

EMDRIA Bylaws

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September 2022: Annual Membership Meeting Webinar

EMDRIA held its Annual Membership Meeting at the 2022 Virtual Conference on September 13, 2022. Click the "View Meeting" button below to view the recording. (Available to members only.)

EMDRIA Testifies before the Texas State Committee on Veteran Affairs

(May 3, 2022) The EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) testified before the Texas State Committee on Veteran Affairs about post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and how EMDR therapy is a proven treatment option. Texas is home to one of the largest military and veteran state populations. You can read the entire testimony here.

Go With That magazine & Focal Point blog Win 2022 AM&P EXCEL Awards

(April 22, 2022) Association Media & Publishing released the finalists for the 42nd AM&P Network EXCEL Awards – the premier awards program honoring association media. The EXCELS are the largest and most prestigious program recognizing excellence and leadership in association media, publishing, marketing, and communication. Go With That magazine is a finalist in Magazines: Single Topic Issue (10,000 or fewer), and Focal Point, EMDRIA’s blog, is a finalist in the EXCEL Award category for Blog Site (overall).

“Our team has done a tremendous job with our magazine and blog, providing our members and the public with well-written, timely, informative, and useful content on EMDR therapy. We are honored that AM&P’s judges have recognized this strategic work,” said Executive Director Michael Bowers, MA.

Through 83 categories—including a new category, Best New Innovation—215 EXCEL Award finalists were carefully selected through a two-stage evaluation process by more than 100 peer judges. For a complete list of the EXCEL Award finalists, click here.

The award placement (gold, silver, bronze) of these 215 finalists will be announced at the June 22 EXCEL Gala, in conjunction with AMPLIFY: AM&P Network’s Content and Marketing Summit. The EXCEL Awards will conclude with the announcement of the EXTRA! Award, the highest honor chosen from among the winners in all categories. The EXCEL Awards also showcase the prestigious Mitch Mohanna Achievement Award, venerating an industry service provider demonstrating commitment and service to the association media and publishing industry.

For more information on the EXCELs, visit siia.net/excel.

EMDRIA Website Wins ASAE Gold Circle Award for Excellence in Association Communications

(April 21, 2022) The EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) website won a 2022 Gold Circle Award from ASAE: The Center for Association Leadership. The Gold Circle Awards recognize extraordinary marketing, membership, and communications efforts in 15 different categories that move organizations forward.

The Gold Circle Awards competition is the premier association marketing, membership, and communications award that recognizes excellence, innovation, and achievement in association/nonprofit marketing, membership, and communications programs. This year’s competition received more than 300 entries across 15 categories, including convention/meeting campaign, member retention campaign, print magazine, and video.

“We are honored that EMDRIA has been recognized by peers in the Association community for the work we have done to serve members and the public. The staff worked hard at the beginning of the pandemic and through it to deliver content that was accessible, cutting edge, and relevant. Members can be proud that our impact, as shown by the analytics for our website, is continuing to grow every quarter. From clinically relevant information for members to helpful information about EMDR therapy to the public, we will continue to build recognition and use of EMDR therapy as a first-choice treatment for a wide array of problems and disorders,” said Michael Bowers, MA, EMDRIA Executive Director.

EMDRIA’s website is the first step in the journey for patients and therapists to learn about and use EMDR to help heal mental suffering and provide hope.

EMDRIA’s new website launched in 2020 and grew in its importance providing resources and tools for EMDR therapists and the public, especially as they dealt with the COVID-19 pandemic. The website has helped drive EMDR’s growth by:

The result has been not only more than 34,000 people who connected with EMDR therapists, but also training and certification for more practicing therapists and EMDRIA’s more than 11,000 members.

Marketing, membership, and communications play a vital role in associations—whether to connect with members, keep them informed of important issues, or raise awareness of programs and initiatives.

Creativity, innovation in successful marketing, membership, and communications programs should be applauded and recognized and that’s precisely what the Gold Circle Awards are all about.

Recipients of the 2022 Gold Circle Awards will be recognized at the 2022 Marketing, Membership & Communications Conference in May in Washington, DC. In addition, their innovations and best practices will be highlighted throughout the year through a variety of channels and resources including articles, conference sessions, and more.

ASAE is a membership organization of more than 48,000 association executives and industry partners representing 7,400 organizations. Since it was established 100 years ago, its members have and continue to lead, manage, and work in or partner with organizations in more than a dozen association management disciplines, from executive management to finance to technology. With the support of the ASAE Research Foundation, a separate nonprofit entity, ASAE is the premier source of learning, knowledge, and future-oriented research for the association and nonprofit profession and provides resources, education, ideas, and advocacy to enhance the power and performance of the association and nonprofit community.

November 2021: Annual Membership Meeting Webinar

EMDRIA held its Annual Membership Meeting at the 2021 Virtual Conference on November 9, 2021. Click the "View Meeting" button below to view the recording. (Available to members only.)