What it takes to conduct an EMDR workshop

EMDR Cambodia carries out workshops and training at many places. What does it take until everything is ready for such an event?

“EMDR Cambodia receives demands for workshops and training from different sides and various places. Of course, we always need to know their objective and some details about the participants as a first step”, says Naysim Hong from the EMDR management team.

Concerning the locations, these are usually proposed by the community, the NGO partner or company. “What is very important to us is that the local authorities participate and are integrated in the event. In our experience, the outcome is much better when they are present, because collaboration with them ensures sustainability and gives the ownership to the communities”, the psychologist continues. “One of the main objectives also is to make people understand about mental health, integrate it in their daily lives and to create a healthy community.”

“Of course, the event will always be led by one or several experienced senior therapists from EMDR Cambodia. But we also need help to register the participants and for other logistical tasks. Therefore, for each workshop or training, 2-5 EMDR representatives participate”, Naysim Hong explains.

Extensive preparation

“The material we need depends on the topic of the workshop or training, on the type of participants and on their individual requirements”, she continues. “For awareness raising as well as for most workshops and training, we need posters and numerous other information material like brochures and leaflets. For more effective workshops with children, we also use storytelling books and other materials like toys, softballs, yarn or clay.

Also, every event is interactive. Participants are asked to draw or paint what goes through their minds or what they feel. The same is for individual or group treatments. Therefore, we have a great need for colored and other pens, watercolor and paper.”

All the material EMDR needs to carry out workshops and training is the reason why we currently raise money for a car. An own vehicle would make EMDR’s work in the province much easier. If you would like to support us in this endeavor, kindly donate on Give.Asia.