In this episode of the Constructed Awareness Podcast, Tyler Orr and Ann Simmons dive into the integration of Constructed Awareness (CA) and EMDR. Ann, a dual-certified therapist in CA and EMDR, shares her journey through both certifications and how CA transformed her trauma work. Tyler explains how his experiences as an EMDR trainer led to the development of CA, emphasizing the model’s focus on awareness rather than structured interventions. They discuss the foundational principles of CA, including the role of awareness in change and how CA’s "tuning" techniques enhance therapeutic processing. The episode also explores how CA complements EMDR by providing a flexible, client-centered approach, allowing therapists to adapt more naturally to clients’ needs. Whether you're an EMDR therapist curious about CA or a clinician looking to deepen your practice, this episode offers valuable insights into integrating these two trauma-informed approaches. Plus, find out about upcoming training opportunities for therapists looking to learn more about CA and EMDR integration. Tune in to hear how CA and EMDR can work together to enrich trauma therapy!
00:00 - 02:00: Introduction to the episode with Tyler Orr and Ann Simmons. Ann shares her background as a dual-certified therapist in Constructed Awareness (CA) and EMDR.
02:00 - 05:00: Ann discusses her journey to becoming certified in EMDR and CA, including how she met Tyler and her experience with CA Level 1 training.
06:00 - 09:00: Tyler shares his journey with EMDR, including his training and experience as an EMDR trainer. He discusses how his work with phases one and two led to developing CA.
10:00 - 14:00: Explanation of the foundational principles of CA:
Awareness brings change.
Experiences are constructed from thoughts, sensations, and external perceptions.
Individuals naturally orient to one building block more than the others.
15:00 - 20:00: Discussion of how CA integrates with EMDR, including how tuning techniques from CA complement EMDR’s structured approach.
21:00 - 25:00: Ann shares practical applications of CA in her EMDR practice, highlighting how CA enhances awareness and helps clients process more fully.
26:00 - 30:00: Tyler explains how CA focuses on awareness rather than changing thoughts directly, contrasting it with CBT’s cognitive restructuring.
31:00 - 35:00: The concept of "tuning" in CA, where therapists help clients switch awareness between thoughts, sensations, and external perceptions.
36:00 - 40:00: Comparison between CA and EMDR processing, with Ann discussing how CA feels more interactive and client-centered.
41:00 - 45:00: Discussion of how CA principles help therapists stay engaged and adaptive, while also being flexible with clients' needs.
46:00 - 50:00: Insights on how CA training enriches personal awareness and therapeutic practice.
51:00 - 55:00: Tyler discusses upcoming CA and EMDR integrated training sessions, designed for EMDR therapists interested in incorporating CA techniques.
56:00 - 58:30: Closing remarks, information on how to connect with Ann and Tyler, and where to learn more about Constructed Awareness.