Hands-On Healing: EMDR with Clay

Hands-On Healing: EMDR with Clay

Dates: April 30-May 1, 2027

Times: 9 am - 4:45 pm

Facilitator: Marshall Lyles, LMFT-S, LPC-S, EMDRIA Approved Consultant

Location: The Workshop, 300 Allen St., Austin, TX 78702

Description:

This experiential workshop introduces clay as a tactile, embodied medium for use within EMDR therapy. Participants will explore how the physical properties of clay, its resistance, malleability, and grounding weight in the hands, can support bilateral stimulation, enhance body awareness, and deepen the processing of memories.

Through guided demonstration and hands-on practice, attendees will learn how clay work can be woven into each phase of the EMDR protocol, offering an alternative or complement to traditional eye movements, tapping, or auditory tones for clients who benefit from tactile and kinesthetic engagement. This workshop will discuss clinical applications, contraindications, and practical considerations for introducing clay into session work, as well as how this approach can support clients who struggle with stillness, dissociation, or verbal processing.

Participants will leave with a foundational understanding of clay-based bilateral techniques, practical exercises to bring into their own practice, and a felt sense of how this medium can open new pathways for healing. While no clay experience is necessary, EMDR basic training is required.

Learning Objectives:

1. Describe how the physical properties of clay can be used to support bilateral stimulation within the EMDR protocol.

2. Identify at least three ways clay-based tactile engagement can enhance body awareness and support the processing of traumatic memory.

3. Demonstrate a clay-based bilateral technique that can be integrated into one or more phases of the standard EMDR protocol.

4. Differentiate between clinical situations where clay-based EMDR may be indicated versus contraindicated for a given client.

5. Apply clay work as a clinical tool for clients who struggle with stillness, dissociation, or verbal processing during EMDR sessions.

6. Formulate a plan for introducing clay-based techniques into their own clinical practice, including practical and logistical considerations.

Marshall Lyles has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 8158. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. Marshall Lyles is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.

Cancellation Policy: There are no refunds available for this event, but participants can secure their own replacement.