Course Description

This presentation draws a direct parallel between EMDR and a classic psychological theory: object relations. Throughout history, humankind has grappled with how to navigate the internal battle between “good and bad.” Object relations theorists posit that improving object relations will not only relieve clients from past traumas, but also serve, in the words of W.R.D. Fairbairn, as “mental immunization therapy” against future stressors. Citing the works of the preeminent object relation theorists, this presentation—by Jillian Tucker, DSW—outlines how the eight-phases of EMDR both neutralize internalized bad objects and enhance internalized good object relations to promote mental well being.

Learning Objectives

1. Participants will be able to explain the major tenants of object relations theory.
2. Participants will be able to identify how EMDR can neutralize internalized bad object relations.
3. Participants will be able to outline how EMDR can enhance internalized good object relations.

Presenter(s)

Jillian Tucker, DSW

Jillian Tucker, DSW, received her doctorate in clinical social work from New York University. She is an EMDR International Association certified therapist and has several years of training at the Ackerman Institute for the Family. Dr. Tucker works in outpatient substance abuse treatment at Weill Cornell Medicine Midtown Center for Treatment and Research and with combat veterans through the Headstrong Project. She teaches at Columbia University and New York University.