The Relational Heart of EMDR: Integrating Connection and Polyvagal Theory into the 8 Phases
- Speaker:
- Laura Swinford, LCSW, EMDR-C
- Duration:
- 1 Hour 05 Minutes
- Format:
- Audio and Video
- Copyright:
-
Mar 05, 2026
- Product Code:
- POS150740
- Media Type:
- Digital Seminar
Description
New EMDR clinicians often over-focus on “doing the steps right and in the correct order” but EMDR is not an 8-phase mechanical protocol — it is an 8-phase relational process. This presentation from EMDR certified therapist and consultant Laura Swinford, LCSW, EMDR-C, will teach you how the efficacy of each phase can be increased through attunement, pacing, co-regulation, and moment-by-moment collaboration with the client. You’ll explore the 8 phases through a polyvagal, attachment-informed lens and see how the “frame” of the protocol is only as effective as the relational field it is happening inside of.
You’ll leave with:
- Specific micro-interventions and ways to navigate the phases
- Attunement, pacing, and co-regulation strategies that improve collaboration
- Somatic markers to reinforce connection
- Resourcing language to use in session
This course is not affiliated with EMDRIA and does not qualify toward EMDRIA credits or training.
Credit
Handouts/Brochure
| File type | File name | Number of pages | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manual - Relational Heart of EMDR (1.7 MB) | 51 Pages | Available after Purchase | |
| Transcript - The Relational Heart of EMDR (106.9 KB) | 20 Pages | Available after Purchase |
Speaker
Laura Swinford, LCSW, EMDR-C Related seminars and products
Laura Swinford, LCSW, EMDR-C, is certified in EMDR, trains therapists as part of PESI’s 6-month EMDR Certification Program and provides EMDR consultation. She works as a therapist in a group private practice specializing in the treatment of trauma using EMDR, Ego State Therapy and Somatic Experiencing®. She has been certified in EMDR for nearly a decade and has used it with clients over that span to help them better process their past traumas and increase their ability to identify and cope with destructive emotions. She has more than 15 years of clinical experience and is also a published author of research work in the mental health field. Ms. Swinford previously served as an adjunct professor at University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana, where she taught evidence-based treatment to master’s level students. Ms. Swinford believes in connection and relationship as she journeys through life. She brings this approach to her work, matching techniques to the needs of her clients.
Speaker Disclosures:
Financial: Laura Swinford maintains a private practice and is the owner of Know Yoga Know Peace. She receives a speaking honorarium and recording royalties from PESI, Inc. She has no relevant financial relationships with ineligible organizations.
Non-financial: Laura Swinford has no relevant non-financial relationships.
Additional Info
Access for Self-Study (Non-Interactive)Access never expires for this product.
For a more detailed outline that includes times or durations of time, if needed, please contact cepepesi.com
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Objectives
- Reframe the 8-phase protocol of EMDR as relational using polyvagal theory and an attachment-focused lens
- Utilize somatic markers to reinforce connections with clients
- Apply micro-interventions to improve the efficacy of each of EMDR’s 8 phases
- Implement proper resourcing language as part of protocol framework
Outline
- Using a polyvagal, attachment-focused lens to frame the 8 Phases
- Somatic markers that reinforce connection
- Micro-interventions for navigating the phases
- Improving attunement, pacing, and collaboration with your clients
- Resourcing language
- Risks and limitations
Target Audience
- Counselors
- Social Workers
- Psychologists
- Psychiatrists
- Marriage and Family Therapists
- Other Mental Health Professionals
Reviews
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