From Play to Processing: Introducing EMDR Techniques in Play Therapy

From Play to Processing: Introducing EMDR Techniques in Play Therapy

Date: Saturday March 28, 2026

Time: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Location: HYATT PLACE NORTH STONE OAK

1610 E. Sonterra Blvd.

San Antonio, TX 78258

This workshop introduces how EMDR therapy is integrated within play therapy for children. Participants will learn the basics of the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model and how EMDR principles fit naturally with play-based work. We will review the eight phases of EMDR with extra focus on adapting History Taking, Treatment Planning and Preparation for young clients. The training will offer simple play therapy strategies for building rapport, gathering information through play, and helping children develop the safety and regulation skills needed before EMDR processing. Attendees will see child-friendly ways to introduce bilateral stimulation through rhythm, movement and other playful activities. Case examples will show how EMDR concepts and preparation can be combined with play therapy to support readiness for trauma work in a clear and developmentally appropriate way.

Info: Participants will be able to:

1. Describe the theoretical foundation of EMDR therapy, including the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model, and explain how its principles align with the goals and methods of play therapy.

2. List the eight phases of EMDR therapy, with emphasis on how phases 1 (History Taking & Treatment Planning) and 2 (Preparation) can be adapted for child clients in a play-based setting.

3. Identify at least two play therapy interventions that support EMDR Phase 1 goals, such as rapport building, gathering developmental history through play narratives, and identifying potential target memories.

Info: 4. Demonstrate at least three play therapy interventions for EMDR Phase 2 that build regulation skills, establish a sense of safety, and introduce children to bilateral stimulation in a developmentally appropriate way.

5. Demonstrate creative, child-friendly and play based bilateral stimulation methods

6. Evaluate case examples illustrating how EMDR theory, preparation activities, and bilateral stimulation can be seamlessly integrated into the structure of play therapy to support trauma processing readiness.

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