Course Description

As EMDR therapists, many of us understand the importance of the mind-body connection to our clients’ ability to experience Adaptive Information Processing during reprocessing phases. However, we may have a more difficult time conceptualizing the importance of a mind, body AND Earth-or Eco-Somatic-approach to the holistic container of healing that includes not only the client but also the therapist, the therapy office, and even the surrounding natural environment. We often forget that the Earth/Nature is even an option to be included in the EMDR process. This training will provide therapists with information about an Eco-Somatic approach to EMDR, with focus on supporting the client’s window of tolerance, dual awareness, and ability to maintain enough regulation to get through extended EMDR intensive sessions up to 5 hours in length. It is expected the participants have pre-existing knowledge around Polyvagal Theory and somatic therapy.

Learning Objectives

1. Participants will be able to describe what an eco-somatic approach to EMDR therapy is and how this approach promotes successful EMDR work in phases 1-7.
2. Participants will be able to explain what an eco-somatic approach to EMDR looks like in an intensive format.
3. Participants will be able to describe 10 somatic and earth inspired practices to utilize in sessions.

Presenter(s)

Kathryn Dietzway, LCSW-BACS

Kathryn Dietzway, LCSW-BACS, is an EMDRIA Approved Consultant and EMDR Certified therapist. She is co-founder and owner of The Therapy Garden, a group psychotherapy and wellness practice in Lafayette, Louisiana. Kathryn is passionate about a mind, body, and Earth-informed approach to EMDR, not only in how she delivers therapy to clients but in how she herself shows up in the healing space. She works with adult clients with a range of complex trauma and dissociation presentations. She specializes in practicing EMDR through an intensive format incorporating nervous system practices, Earth-inspired methods, and movement.