Applying EMDR to Substance Use Disorder Treatment
2 CE Credits | Beginner Level | Psychologists & EMDR Clinicians
About the Course
This pre-recorded, on-demand webinar is designed for psychologists and other licensed mental health professionals treating clients with substance use disorders.
While many treatment programs offer structured care, relapse remains a common challenge. This course presents a structured approach to integrating Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) into evidence-based substance use treatment planning.
Attendees will explore essential components of a comprehensive SUD treatment plan, review current research on EMDR’s role in addiction treatment, and learn how to assess whether EMDR is appropriate based on client presentation and stage of recovery.
Through clinical vignettes, decision trees, and case illustrations, participants will learn how to evaluate readiness for EMDR, weigh risks and benefits, and identify appropriate addiction-focused EMDR protocols, including DeTUR, CravEx, and the Feeling-State Addiction Protocol (FSAP).
Learning Objectives
By the end of this course, attendees will be able to
Describe how Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) can be applied as an adjunctive intervention within a comprehensive Substance Use Disorder treatment plan.
Summarize current research findings on the effectiveness, limitations, and emerging role of EMDR in treating substance use disorders.
Evaluate potential risks and benefits of incorporating EMDR into treatment based on client readiness, relapse risk, and treatment stage.
Identify and differentiate at least three EMDR protocols tailored for addiction treatment (e.g., DeTUR, CravEx, FSAP), and explain their theoretical rationale and appropriate application based on clinical vignettes.
Course Format and Completion
This course is delivered through didactic presentation and clinical examples. This pre-recorded webinar is available on demand and must be completed in full to receive continuing education credit. Partial credit is not awarded.
Note: Several protocols referenced in this presentation require separate, specialized training and are introduced for educational awareness only.
Prior to receiving credit for this course, you must
Review the material in full.
Pass post test with minimum 75% grade with three attempts allowed.
Partial credit not awarded.
Accuracy, Utility, and Limitations of Course Material
This course is grounded in current research and clinical best practices related to Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and its application to substance use disorder treatment.
The material is designed to support clinical application through practical integration strategies and case-based examples. While the protocols discussed are evidence-informed, some require specialized training beyond the scope of this course.
This training reflects the instructor’s knowledge at the time of recording and is intended for educational purposes. Clinical judgment remains essential when applying the material in practice. This course does not substitute for full EMDR training, protocol-specific instruction, or supervised consultation where required.
Refunds, Exchanges, and Cancellations
Due to the digital and pre-recorded nature of this course, all sales are final. Once access is granted, there are no refunds, exchanges, or cancellations. This policy is in place to protect the integrity of the course content and prevent unauthorized use or distribution. By purchasing, you acknowledge and agree to these terms.
About The Instructor
Cassandra Cannon, Ph.D. is the owner and operator of Cannon Psychology since 2018. She primarily treats adult survivors of abuse and addiction. She is certified by EMDRIA as a practitioner and an approved consultant. She has worked in a variety of levels of care, including inpatient, residential and outpatient. For 9 years, she was the Clinical Director of a Residential Substance Abuse Program where she utilized EMDR as an intervention. She has been licensed to practice psychology by the State of California since 2011.
Conflict of Interest Disclosure
The instructor, Cassandra Cannon, Ph.D., is the founder of Cannon Psychology. While this conflict of interest exists, all efforts have been made to ensure unbiased, evidence-based information.
Continuing Education Approval
Cannon Psychology is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. Cannon Psychology maintains responsibility for this program and its content.
Cannon Psychology is an EMDRIA-approved provider (#25034), and this program (#25034-DL02) is approved for 2 EMDRIA credits. Eligibility for EMDRIA credits is restricted to those who have completed an EMDRIA-approved Basic EMDR Training.
Contact and Support
For assistance with accessibility, refunds or cancellations, or concerns regarding conflict of interest or grievances, please contact:
Cassandra Cannon, Ph.D.
drcannon@cannonpsychology.com
