Polyvagal-Informed EMDR
Deepening Safety, Presence, & Processing
- Average Rating:
- 208
- Speaker:
- Laura Swinford, LCSW, EMDR-C
- Duration:
- 2 Hours 01 Minutes
- Copyright:
-
20 Mar, 2026
- Product Code:
- NOS096684
- Media Type:
- Digital Seminar
- Access:
- Never expires.
Description
EMDR and Polyvagal Theory have been game-changers in trauma treatment—and when combined, they create a neuro-informed framework for case conceptualization, treatment planning, and client transformation that should be in every therapist’s toolkit. Even when a client is resourced and ready for EMDR, the work can stall because their nervous system is distressed. In this workshop, you’ll learn an evidence-based, polyvagal approach to working with the autonomic nervous system during EMDR, moving beyond theory and into the real, messy, embodied experience of trauma reprocessing. We’ll explore how to spot blocked processing, pace bilateral stimulation according to the client’s bodily cues, and use your own regulated presence as a clinical tool.
You’ll also learn how to:
- Track subtle nervous system shifts during the different phases of EMDR
- Use somatic pacing strategies to help clients who are stuck, shut down, or flooded
- Help clients feel safe and connected to you during memory reprocessing
- Identify how your own nervous system affects clinical attunement and the rhythm of therapy
This course is not affiliated with EMDRIA and does not qualify toward EMDRIA credits or training.
CPD
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. With more than 15 years of clinical experience, she works in a group private practice specializing in trauma treatment and is a published author of research work in the mental health field.
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 cepesi@pesi.com.
Objectives
- Discuss the clinical relevance of the concept of vagal tone and it relates to Phase 2 Preparation work in EMDR.
- Explain the role of the concept of presence in supporting effective target desensitization during EMDR reprocessing.
- Evaluate the application of two polyvagal informed interventions in promoting successful EMDR reprocessing and integration.
Outline
Orientation to Polyvagal Theory within the 8 Phases of EMDR
- Limitations of the research and potential risks
- Key PVT principles for EMDR therapy.
Vagal tone: A means to an end and the end itself
- Learn what vagal tone is
- Examine several strategies for improving vagal tone
- Learn how vagal tone relates to trauma symptoms and successful reprocessing
Polyvagal Informed Reprocessing
- Examine the role of polyvagal theory in reprocessing phases
- Review key techniques for successful target resolution
Warm it up
- Learn how to use polyvagal theory to make EMDR more relational in focus
- Understand the role therapeutic presence plays in successful EMDR outcomes
Target Audience
- Counsellors
- Social Workers
- Psychologists
- Psychotherapists
- Therapists
- Marriage & Family Therapists
- Addiction Counsellors
- Case Managers
- Physicians
- Nurses
- Other Mental Health Professionals
Reviews
| 5 |
|
| 4 |
|
| 3 |
|
| 2 |
|
| 1 |
|
Overall: 4.8
Total Reviews: 208
Satisfaction Guarantee
Your satisfaction is our goal and our guarantee. Concerns should be addressed to info@pesi.co.uk or call 01235847393.
Please wait ...