Final Day in Addis

Today was the final Specialty Training - Using EMDR with Adults. I presented Dr. Miller’s Feeling State Addictions Protocol, discussed working with nightmares, and did a practicum with Dr. Marcus’ Headache protocol. Several advanced therapists also presented interesting cases, including the use of EMDR with a woman who had been paralyzed due to a conversion disorder and a man with a 14 year history of paranoia and frequent hospitalization,  and who has successfully stabilized, returned to work and been taken off his meds by his doctors.



These reports makes me realize how much these therapists are accomplishing and how important EMDR can be to a country that has had more than its share of trauma.

This has undoubtedly been my most successful trip to Ethiopia, and probably my most exhausting! I have visited many of the therapists at their places of work and met with two universities about future possibilities of including EMDR in their Master’s program.

Most importantly, the Ethiopian therapists have begun taking on the responsibility for the future of EMDR in their country. Seven Study Groups, ranging from 2 to 12 members were formed and will meet to discuss EMDR  at least once a month. One of our most diligent therapists has agreed to maintain communication between the groups and with me. I have left them books, articles and on-line resources to study.

Saying goodbye to everyone, especially to the Hope For Children staff, was even harder than ever. For five years, they have been the "behind-the-scene" team that has taken care of printing the manuals, setting up the room and the equipment every day, cooking our wonderful lunches, and in general, dealing with every unexpected problem.

Thank-You Hope for Children!