This event is free for MCTS members

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Calm Place in EMDR Phase 2: teaching, troubleshooting, and case discussion

During this study group, we will explore EMDR’s Calm Place technique, one of the first resources developed in Phase 2 preparation. We will walk through the protocol step by step: identifying the image, noticing emotions and body sensations, choosing a cue word, adding short sets of bilateral stimulation, self-cueing, and cueing with a mild disturbance. We will then watch a case video together and spend focused time on the problems that come up most often. These include the place that turns negative or is intruded on, the client who can’t find anywhere that feels safe, numbing or dissociation, and bilateral stimulation that opens into reprocessing. We will discuss what each of these tells us about the client and how to adapt, including shifting from “safe” to “calm,” using imagined places, and bringing in resource figures. This session is open to EMDR-trained clinicians and to clinicians without EMDR training who are curious about the method and want resourcing tools to bring into their own work.

Upon registration, participants will receive:

  • A Calm Place protocol handout drawn from Dr. Alpern’s EMDR training manual
  • A troubleshooting guide for common Calm Place challenges


Instructor(s)

Pria Alpern, PhD

Psychologist

Dr. Alpern is a licensed clinical psychologist and an EMDRIA-approved EMDR therapist, consultant, and trainer. She is the founder of the Manhattan Center for Trauma Studies, where she oversees continuing education trainings focused on EMDR and trauma-informed psychotherapy. She is also the founder and clinical director of Center Psychology Group in New York City, a psychotherapy practice specializing in trauma treatment for adult and perinatal populations. She is a graduate of the EMDR Clinical Affiliate Program at the National Institute for the Psychotherapies (NIP) Trauma Treatment Center in New York City, where she completed her EMDR training. She is also an advanced-level Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEI). Dr. Alpern has specialized training in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders from Postpartum Support International. She earned her Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Long Island University’s Brooklyn campus. She also completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the Rosemary Furman Counseling Center at Barnard College, focusing on late adolescence, early adulthood, and trauma. Dr. Alpern holds a B.A. in Psychology and Art History from Georgetown University. Beyond her clinical work, Dr. Alpern offers trauma-related psychoeducation through her Instagram and TikTok platforms, raising awareness about EMDR and trauma-informed psychotherapy. She has been featured in Glamour UK, Rolling Stone, NPR, and The New York Times.

Pricing options

We want this study group to be as accessible as possible while honoring the time and expertise that goes into facilitating it. The standard rate is $55, which helps cover preparation, facilitation, and community resources. A reduced rate of $35 is available for anyone who needs it - no explanation required. Please choose the rate that feels sustainable for you.