Modifying EMDR for CPTSD: A Conversation with Whitney Alexander, LMFT
Join us for an insightful episode as we welcome Whitney Alexander, LMFT, a seasoned therapist and EMDR Approved Consultant, to discuss the nuances of working with Complex PTSD (CPTSD) and how Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) can be thoughtfully adapted to meet the needs of this population.
Whitney shares her over 20 years of experience in the field, working with individuals across the lifespan—including children, teens, and adults—navigating challenges such as PTSD, depression, anxiety, autism, ADHD, relationship issues, grief and loss, personality disorders, eating disorders, substance use, and bipolar disorder. As the owner of a practice co-op in Stillwater, Oklahoma, and a facilitator of basic EMDR training, Whitney offers a wealth of clinical expertise and practical wisdom.
In this episode, we will:
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Define and highlight what CPTSD is, distinguishing it from other trauma-related diagnoses.
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Explore the EMDR phases that require modification when working with CPTSD clients, with a special focus on the importance of tailoring treatment approaches.
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Discuss dissociation, a frequent challenge when working with this population, and how to recognize and address it in therapy.
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Share practical modifications—including the use of IFS interweaves in Phase 2 and creative approaches for Phase 3—while highlighting a variety of strategies to support healing and integration.
Whether you’re a therapist seeking to deepen your understanding of trauma-informed EMDR or simply curious about how therapy can adapt to complex needs, this episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable tips.
Guest Bio:
Whitney Alexander is an LMFT with over 20 years in the field. She is currently an Approved Consultant in EMDR and specializes in CPTSD. Whitney owns a practice co-op in Stillwater, Oklahoma, and helps facilitate basic training in EMDR. With over a decade of experience in the field, she has had the privilege of working with individuals from all walks of life—from children and teens to adults—each navigating their own unique challenges. Whitney has experience treating issues such as PTSD, depression, anxiety, autism, ADHD, relationship issues, grief and loss, personality disorders, eating disorders, substance use, and bipolar disorder.
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About your hosts: Kathy Couch, LCSW, FT EMDRIA Approved Consultant and Advanced Trainer
Kathy Couch is your host and is the owner of Rewired360 and Willow Creek Counseling. Rewired360 builds clinicians and business owners to embody the CEO mindset as they learn, lead and thrive. We support the EMDR career path to become an EMDR International Association Certified Therapist and Approved Consultant. We have consultation and training options, podcasts, Facebook Groups, Blogs, YouTube Channels, Free Peer Huddles for business and EMDR, and free Rewired360 swag stores. Visit my links to view all of my offerings and social media platforms. Visit www.rewired360.com for more details.
Join my Free Facebook Group for EMDR Therapists; Subscribe to our YouTube Channel, Tik Tok for Everything EMDR. Subscribe to the Blog for marketing tips and ideas and Visit my store for Rewired360 Swag!!! In my spare time, you will find me engaging in holistic therapies and spending time with my children and family, including my husband and twin boys.
Tony Parmenter, co-host, is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Certified EMDR Therapist, EMDRIA Approved Consultant, and founder of Seiyu Institute for Health & Training, L3C, where he specializes in complex trauma and intergenerational healing. A U.S. Air Force veteran who served in Operation Enduring Freedom before teaching ESL in Tokyo and training as a Mental Health Counselor, Tony brings a unique perspective to his work with veterans, first responders, healthcare professionals, and creatives. He is the creator of innovative trauma treatment approaches including the Medicine-free Altered State Recovery System (MARS) and Therapeutic Fly-fishing with EMDR (TF-EMDR)®, which integrate nature-based interventions with evidence-based practices. His holistic approach draws from EMDR, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, polyvagal theory, Reiki, clinical hypnosis, and ketamine-assisted psychotherapy. Tony is also a musician, outdoor enthusiast, professional trainer who has held visiting or adjunct professorships at NYU, Bellevue University, Purdue University, and others. Additionally, he is a volunteer with the Vermont TRN and American Red Cross, bringing a whole-person/whole-spirit perspective to trauma recovery that honors the interconnection of mind, body, and spirit.
