Overview

The APS hosts this webinar with the APS College of Clinical Psychologists.

This webinar critically explores how the concept of “ecological validity” is being applied in EMDR therapy training and supervision, and examines whether this usage aligns with the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model and current neuroscience.

Drawing on recent evidence from neuroimaging, reconsolidation research, and working memory theory, the session argues that residual disturbance following memory reprocessing may signal incomplete integration or new memory material—not therapeutic realism.

Participants will gain a clearer understanding of EMDR’s proposed mechanisms of action, and learn how to distinguish model-consistent practice from well-intentioned clinical drift. The webinar aims to equip psychologists with up-to-date knowledge of the neurobiological mechanisms underpinning EMDR therapy and memory reconsolidation, enabling them to refine their trauma treatment strategies and better support clients presenting with complex trauma responses.

Level of Learning

Intermediate. This activity is targeted to those who have some previous learning on the topic.

Duration of access

This webinar will be recorded. Access to the recording and presenter slides is for 12 months from the date of confirmed registration.

APS CPD-Approved

This activity has been assessed against the APS Standards for CPD activities and approved for its education quality. Learn more about the APS CPD Approval process

CPD Frequently Asked Questions

Refer to the APS CPD Frequently Asked Questions for general and technical information when undertaking APS Professional development activities.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this webinar, participants should be able to:

• differentiate between model-consistent and model-inconsistent use of “ecological validity” in EMDR therapy,

• explain the neurobiological and cognitive mechanisms that underpin EMDR therapy, and

• apply supervision and clinical reasoning strategies to cases where Subjective Units of Disturbance (or Distress) (SUDs) remain elevated.

Presenter(s)

Liam Harkins MAPS

About the presenter(s)

Liam Harkins is a clinical psychologist based in Victoria and the Principal Psychologist at Breathe Psychology, a trauma‑focused private practice. At Breathe, he provides both individual and group supervision and leads a strong culture of clinician training and development. The practice is known for its commitment to fostering early-career psychologists and maintaining high standards of trauma-informed, evidence-based care. Liam completed his Master of Psychology (Clinical) at the University of Melbourne and is a Board‑Approved Supervisor. He is also an EMDR Institute Trainer and an Accredited Consultant with the EMDR Association of Australia (EMDRAA). He has facilitated and presented at EMDR Basic Trainings across Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, Singapore, and Taiwan. His clinical work focuses on adults experiencing complex trauma, dissociation, anxiety, and depression. He uses EMDR as a primary modality and integrates approaches including CBT, schema therapy, attachment-based work, mindfulness, and existential frameworks. He regularly consults on EMDR fidelity, complex case formulation, and the integration of neuroscience into clinical practice and supervision.