Healing the Hidden Wounds:

An EMDR to Working with First Responders, Military, Veterans & Their Loved Ones

OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA

Live In Person

With Sheila Russell, LISW, CADC

Program Overview

This 12 hour specialty training explores the application of advanced Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) techniques tailored to the unique needs of first responders and military veterans, with a focus on fostering resilience and utilizing tactical language relevant to these populations. Participants will learn to address the specific mental health challenges faced by these groups, including trauma, moral injury, and the impact on family dynamics, as informed by the latest research . The course integrates evidence-based practices, including the low-intensity flash technique and the flashforward procedure, to enhance trauma-informed care. Participants will also gain competencies in conducting tailored assessments and critically evaluating the specialized treatment approaches necessary for these populations. Strategies to build resilience and support psychological well-being will be emphasized, providing tools to improve outcomes for first responders and military personnel while considering the broader impact on their families. This workshop combines practical demonstrations and interactive learning to advance clinical skills in addressing the critical and complex needs of these at-risk groups.

Program Location

April 3 & 4, 2025


Warrior's Rest Foundation

3300 North Santa Fe, OKC, OK 73118

Sponsored by: Warrior's Rest Foundation

In Person Only Program

Registration Information

Program Details

Learning Objectives

  • Explain 3 key indicators that demonstrate a client's emotional readiness for therapeutic processing.

  • Describe at least two evidence-based interventions that support emotional stabilization in clients experiencing heightened distress.

  • Explain the relationship between distress intolerance and common co-occurring mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression.

  • Articulate the role of attunement in strengthening the therapeutic alliance and how this contributes to client outcomes.

  • Identify at least two behavioral or affective indicators of distress intolerance

  • Describe therapeutic techniques to help clients manage and stabilize fear of experiencing emotions.

Agenda


Day 1

8:30a registration and networking

9:00 Introductions and Overview

10:00 Lecture

11:30p break

12:30 Lecture

1:30 Practice

2:30 Lecture

4:00p Closure

Day 2

8:30a registration and networking

9:00 Introductions and Overview

10:00 Lecture

11:30p break

12:30 Lecture

1:30 Practice

2:30 Lecture

4:00p Closure

Continuing Education Credits

EMDRIA: 12

CEs: 12

EMDR & Beyond is the provider of (CEs).

Certificates are awarded online after completion of the workshop. Participants are sent their certificate after attendance verification and opportunity to complete an evaluation form.

Licensed Professionals should contact their regulatory board to determine course approval.

EMDRIA: EMDR & Beyond is an EC Provider #15007 and this program (#15007-88) is approved for 12 EMDRIA Credits. Eligibility for EMDRIA Credits is restricted to those who have completed an EMDRIA-Approved Basic EMDR Training.

To receive CE's or EMDRIA credits, for in Person Presentations - you must attend the entire program in person or live webinar. No partial credits are available, and you cannot receive credits for watching a recording in place of live credits.

To receive CE's or EMDRIA Credits for the On Demand Version (available approximately 20-30 days after the live event) you must complete the curriculum, take a quiz and pass by 75% and be given the opportunity to fill out a course evaluation. The system triggers your certificate to be released.

EMDR & Beyond is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. EMDR & Beyond remains responsible for this program and its contents.

Meet the Instructor

Sheila Russell LISW, CADC

Sheila Russell, LISW CADC is an experienced therapist and speaker who has worked in residential treatment for children’s mental health, family services for those involved with state social services, supervision in residential substance abuse treatment for women and their children as well as an Adjunct Instructor for Grand View University.

Ms. Russell is the owner of the group therapy practice, Front Line Therapy in West Des Moines, IA. She is a Certified EMDR Therapist and EMDRIA Approved Consultant. She has expertise in EMDR and trauma treatment of simple and complex PTSD focusing specifically on First Responders, Military Personnel, Domestic Violence, Gambling and Substance Use Disorders.

Currently, Ms. Russell is active with multiple first responder municipalities and agencies, Iowa Law Enforcement Academy (ILEA), Iowa's Department of Public Safety (DPS), Yoga for First Responders (YFFR), a vetted provider with the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), and a therapist provider for National Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.).

Ms. Russell's Two Day Workshop, Healing the Hidden Wounds: An EMDR Approach To Working With First Responders, Military, Veterans, and Their Loved Ones will be presented on February 21 & 22, 2025 in Urbandale Iowa and is available for presentation at other sites by request.