EMDR Rooted in Play Therapy: Resourcing, Regulation & Remembering in Phase 1 & 2

This two-day workshop will help participants learn how to integrate Play Therapy principles with EMDR Phases 1 and 2 by using developmentally attuned, play-based approaches to history taking, resourcing, and nervous-system regulation. Through experiential activities and applied case examples, attendees will develop skills to interpret symbolic play, identify trauma themes, strengthen internal resources, and build safety and stabilization using expressive, somatic, and relational play therapy interventions. Clinicians will be equipped to create individualized preparation plans that support children and teens in feeling grounded, empowered, and ready for deeper therapeutic processing.

Objectives: 

• Describe how Play Therapy supports rapport, safety, and attuned connection during EMDR Phase 1.

• Identify developmentally appropriate play-based strategies to gather trauma history, patterns, strengths, and themes during EMDR Phase 1.

• Explain the role of symbolic play, metaphors, and character roles in understanding children’s lived experiences and shaping treatment planning in EMDR Phase 1.

• Recognize play-based cues of dysregulation,…