EMDR Phase 2: Preparation, Stabilization & Readiness for Trauma Processing
4 CE | Intermediate Level | Psychologists & Licensed Clinicians
About the Course
EMDR Phase 2 Preparation is often where clinicians begin to slow down and ask more careful questions. After history taking and treatment planning in Phase 1, Phase 2 shifts the focus to readiness, stabilization, and safety. The task is to determine whether a client has sufficient regulation capacity, dual attention, and stability to begin trauma processing. If those capacities are inconsistent, preparation continues.
This intermediate-level continuing education course takes a closer look at EMDR Phase 2 Preparation. We review how to assess dissociation, evaluate regulation capacity in real time, and determine whether dual attention remains intact under mild activation. We also discuss how to modify stabilization and resourcing when clients cannot generate visual imagery, including cases of aphantasia, and how preparation may need to be structured differently for neurodevelopmental differences.
Participants review current research related to EMDR mechanisms, dissociation, intolerance of calm, and adaptations for autistic and ADHD presentations. Through clinical examples, the course focuses on helping clinicians make careful decisions about when to begin reprocessing and when to extend preparation.
Learning Objectives
At the end of this course, Participants will be able to
Analyze the current empirical evidence supporting EMDR therapy for PTSD, including comparative effectiveness findings and reported adverse event data, to inform clinical decision-making and informed consent discussions.
Differentiate and apply psychological, psychophysiological, and neurobiological models of EMDR therapy (including the Adaptive Information Processing model and the Network Balance Model) to conceptualize trauma processing.
Evaluate client readiness for EMDR therapy by assessing safety, stability, dissociative symptoms, emotional regulation capacity, and dual attention using structured screening tools and clinical decision-making frameworks.
Apply culturally responsive adaptations of the standard EMDR protocol, including modifications to language, metaphors, bilateral stimulation, and resourcing strategies.
Demonstrate appropriate selection and implementation of Phase 2 preparation and resourcing interventions. This includes container, peaceful/safe place, Resource Development and Installation (RDI), and related stabilization strategies, with clinical adaptations for dissociation, neurodivergence, and aphantasia to support dual attention and processing readiness.
Identify processing difficulties using the Processing Difficulties Scale and formulate targeted clinical interventions.
Course Format and Completion
This course is delivered through didactic presentation and applied 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.
Prior to receiving credit for this course, you must
• Complete all course modules in full
• Pass the post-test with a minimum score of 75% (three attempts allowed)
• Partial credit is not awarded
Accuracy, Utility, and Limitations of Course Material
This course provides research-informed and clinically grounded education focused on EMDR Phase 2: preparation, stabilization, and readiness for trauma processing.
The material integrates current literature on EMDR mechanisms, dissociation, neurodevelopmental adaptations, intolerance of calm, and processing difficulties, and translates those findings into practical clinical decision-making.
This course does not replace foundational EMDR training, formal consultation, or individualized supervision. Research in some areas remains emerging, and clinical judgment is required when applying these concepts. Participants are responsible for integrating the material within their scope of practice and seeking additional support when appropriate.
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. 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 and has worked across inpatient, residential, and outpatient settings. She has been licensed to practice psychology in 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-DL03) is approved for 4 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
