Polyvagal Informed EMDR: A Neuro-Informed Approach to Healing

October 15, 2026

Abstract
Polyvagal Theory and EMDR are two leading-edge approaches in trauma therapy, each offering rich neurobiological frameworks that can deepen our understanding of the human stress response and the pathways toward healing. When woven together, they offer a dynamic and compassionate model that honors the complexity of trauma and supports recovery in a truly integrative way.

This workshop explores the intersection of Polyvagal Theory and EMDR, introducing a neuro-informed lens that expands clinical application beyond trauma and PTSD to include anxiety, depression, grief, addictions, chronic pain, and adjustment disorders. Participants will learn how to blend the foundational principles of both models to enhance client regulation, deepen reprocessing, and support safer, more effective therapy.

We’ll begin by grounding in the key tenets of Polyvagal Theory, including neuroception, the autonomic hierarchy, and the importance of co-regulation. These concepts will be translated into practical strategies clinicians can use in session, such as neural exercises to support emotion regulation and tools to assess and support vagal tone and heart rate variability. Understanding these concepts equips clinicians to meet clients where they are—whether stuck in collapse, mobilized in anxiety, or cycling through both.

From there, we’ll explore how these principles map onto EMDR’s standard protocol and eight-phase model. This includes how to assess client readiness for reprocessing through a polyvagal lens, how to adapt resource development and installation to improve nervous system regulation, and how to modify treatment strategies to avoid overwhelming dysregulation.

Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of how to integrate these two approaches in ways that are grounded, accessible, and flexible across diverse clinical populations. Whether you're an experienced EMDR clinician looking to expand your skillset or a therapist seeking more effective ways to work with the body and brain, this workshop offers an innovative, neuro-informed roadmap for healing.

Potential to Distress: No
 

Target Audience

Those seeking to participate in this webinar must be licensed mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, clinical social workers, mental health counselors, accredited psychotherapists, etc.). ISSTD staff will audit license information prior to the start of the course and may request additional documentation for your license.

We do accept students enrolled in a program of study leading to a degree or certification in the mental health field and who have an interest in trauma and dissociation. Students must submit proof of student status such as a transcript or registration record. For those who have completed their degree and are currently in the pre-licensure stage practicing under the license of another clinician, you must provide the name and license information for the person you are working with. Documentation should be sent to ISSTD staff at [email protected] before registering. 

This webinar is at the intermediate learning level.

Learning Objectives

Upon Completion of this webinar, participants will be able to: 

  • Analyze the research on Polyvagal Theory and relevant criticisms
  • Describe at least two core premises of Polyvagal Theory and how they relate to trauma recovery
  • Explain how the social engagement system influences EMDR therapy outcomes
  • Apply Polyvagal inspired interventions to Phase 2 Preparation work to support stabilization and readiness for reprocessing
  • Analyze the usefulness of Polyvagal Theory as a model to facilitate successful reprocessing in EMDR therapy
Course summary
Available credit: 
  • 1.50 APA
    The International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. The International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation maintains responsibility for this program and its content.
  • 1.50 ASWB ACE
    The International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation (ISSTD), #1744, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: 08/20/2024 – 08/20/2027. Social workers completing this course receive 1.50 continuing education credits.
  • 1.50 ISSTD Certificate Program
    This program is eligible for 1.50 credits in the ISSTD Certificate Program. No certificate of completion is generated for this type of credit.
Course opens: 
09/01/2025
Course expires: 
12/31/2050
Event starts: 
10/15/2026 - 5:00pm EDT
Event ends: 
10/15/2026 - 6:30pm EDT
ISSTD Member cost:
$35.00
Your Price:
$55.00
Part of: 
2026 Webinar Pass
Add to calendar: 
Rating: 
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Presenter Name: Rebecca Kase, MSW, LCSW
Presenter Bio: Rebecca Kase, LCSW, is an EMDR trainer, consultant, and author of Polyvagal-Informed EMDR. Founder of The Trauma Therapist Institute, she blends neuroscience and embodiment to help therapists grow in confidence and skill. Her trainings are dynamic, compassionate, and deeply empowering. Rebecca graduated from the University of Denver in 2007 with her Master in Social Work degree.

 

Available Credit

  • 1.50 APA
    The International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. The International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation maintains responsibility for this program and its content.
  • 1.50 ASWB ACE
    The International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation (ISSTD), #1744, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: 08/20/2024 – 08/20/2027. Social workers completing this course receive 1.50 continuing education credits.
  • 1.50 ISSTD Certificate Program
    This program is eligible for 1.50 credits in the ISSTD Certificate Program. No certificate of completion is generated for this type of credit.

Price

ISSTD Member cost:
$35.00
Your Price:
$55.00
Please login or register to take this course.

"Your Price" above reflects your final price based on your membership status and career level. 

  • ISSTD defines a student as those enrolled in a program of study leading to a degree or certification in the mental health field and who have an interest in trauma and dissociation. 
  • ISSTD defines an emerging professional as mental health professionals who have completed an advanced degree and are in the first three years of their career (or first three years after graduation for researchers).
  • If you do not fall into one of the above categories please register as Professional/Retired. 

These prices are for Tier I countries. For a list of countries by Tier click here. If you are located in a country that falls into Tier II-VI please contact ISSTD at [email protected] to receive the appropriate discount code.

Registration Policies

Cancellations prior to the webinar are subject to a $10 cancellation fee. No refunds are provided for no shows. The deadline for cancellations with a refund is October 12, 2026 at 5:00pm US Eastern Time. Requests for cancellation should be sent to [email protected].

For additional webinar policies including completion requirements, filing grievances, requesting a disability accommodation, and awarding of certificates of credits, please visit our Webinar Policies page.