Pathological Demand Avoidance/Persistent Demand for Autonomy (PDA) involves a heightened nervous system response to perceived threats to autonomy, often rooted in anxiety and a fear of uncertainty. Misunderstood reactions by others can cause trauma and shame to the PDA profile client. Adapting EMDR with collaborative, unscripted, low-demand approaches reduces anxiety, respects autonomy, and supports effective trauma processing for PDA clients.

Through the lens of a lived experience, as a PDA profile clinician and an approved EMDRIA consultant and advanced trainer, you will gain insight into what PDA is and how it impacts day-to-day life for individuals with the profile. You will also learn how it creates trauma for the PDA client due to societal expectations, and how to adapt the eight phases of EMDR to make it more affirming and accessible. Case conceptualization, along with opportunities during the training to practice these skills through dyad work, will enable you to apply the skills learned in real-time.

Participants will be given a toolkit of practical adaptations to use after the training.