This is an on demand training with access to recordings and materials on Integrating EMDR and Schema Therapy. 

EMDR and Schema Therapy are both two highly effective transdiagnostic therapy approaches, applied with a wide variety of populations across the lifespan. Increasing attention and focus has discussed the integrative and complementary nature of these therapy approaches, with the combined theoretical models and practical applications of both EMDR and Schema proving to be a powerful approach for creating long lasting change.

In this training, Liam Spicer will provide an overview of the Schema Therapy Model and the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model and how these theoretical frameworks can be utilised together to form a comprehensive understanding of the client’s presentation and challenges. The recent research of both approaches will be discussed, with a focus on recent developments and advancements in the field. The training will focus on how areas such as Positive schemas can be utilised to help build adaptive memory networks, understanding what is the healthy adult and how to build this up in preparation for trauma work, how to effectively formulate targets for processing based on a Schema and AIP formulation, how to apply Schema techniques in our preparation phase and as interweaves to work with blocks and barriers, creative integrations across all phases of EMDR, and the importance of limited reparenting and the therapeutic relationship. This will include  demonstrations, and practical self-reflective exercises. 

Learning outcomes include:

• Understanding how the Schema and Mode model, can be integrated with the Adaptive Information Processing Model
• Learn about the current research status for both EMDR and Schema Therapy and recent innovations in the field
• Learn about the certain schemas and modes associated with various clinical presentations including Liam’s recent research in the area of Grief
• Learn how to adapt our Schema Therapy and EMDR approach with various population groups including Autistic/ADHD clients, Culturally and linguistically diverse, and other minority groups
• Understand how to use a Schema Therapy formulation to assist with conceptualisation and target assessment
• Learn advanced EMDR approaches that incorporate needs meeting in line with the Schema Therapy Model
• Understand based on research what is the Healthy Adult Mode and how we can build this up in therapy
• Understand Positive Schemas and how we can utilise this to build up Adaptive Memory Networks
• Understand how to use various Schema Therapy techniques in the preparation phase but also as interweaves in EMDR reprocessing including chairwork and imagery
• Learn about the importance of Limited reparenting and the importance of understanding our own activation including Liam’s research in this area

Liam Spicer

Liam Spicer is a Senior Lecturer in Psychology, Psychologist, EMDR Consultant and Accredited Schema Therapist based in Lutruwita. Liam is an Autistic ADHDer himself, and is passionate about training, research, and collaboration with other neurodivergent individuals in the Neurodiversity Affirming Space. Liam is actively involved in both training and research in the areas of trauma, grief, neurodivergence, EMDR, and Schema Therapy, delivering workshops across Australia and online to various mental health professionals.

Liam has presented at both International and National conferences including  the International Society for Schema Therapy Conference in Europe, the EMDR Asia Conference, two years consecutively at the EMDR Australia Conference, and the Australasian ADHD Professionals Network Conference.

Liam has been a contributor to the Routledge International Handbook of Child and Adolescent Grief and has published in top academic journals such as Frontiers in Psychiatry and Psychotherapy Research. Liam’s current PHD at Curtin University, Perth is focused on the use of Schema Therapy for Prolonged Grief, where he has published in the ISST bulletin on this topic.

Liam’s current PhD is focused on the use of Schema Therapy for Prolonged grief, and he has published journal articles and book chapters on grief in addition to presenting at national and international conferences. His interest in this area is derived from both professional and personal lived experience of loss.