The EMDR East Anglia Association steering group held a successful in-person CPD and networking day at the Beet Club in the beautiful cathedral city of Ely.
In the morning Cassandra Manning took us on an inspiring exploration of the use of music in EMDR.
Cassandra is an integrative arts psychotherapist specialising in creative process in integrative EMDR psychotherapy.
She guided us through her deeply engaging presentation to explore the transformative potential of integrating music and EMDR. Cassandra shared her journey from opera singer to Integrative EMDR Psychotherapist, highlighting how music — when carefully selected and skilfully applied — can act as a powerful co-therapist throughout all phases of the Standard EMDR Protocol. We heard inspiring client stories, explored the neuroscience behind music’s profound emotional impact, and took part in experiential exercises to feel firsthand how music can deepen resourcing and enhance processing. Reflections from participants underscored how different tracks evoked unique, deeply personal responses — a reminder of the remarkably subjective experience music provokes in each of us. This was a truly rich, interactive session filled with practical insights and heartfelt moments. If you missed it, we warmly invite you to join us next time — these events are designed to be experienced live, where the magic of shared learning and discovery truly comes to life!
In the afternoon, Esther Kiel showed us how to supercharge the 8 phases of the standard EMDR protocol with neuro-affirmative enhancements to therapeutic and supervision work.
Esther is a Consultant Clinical Psychologist and is neurodivergent herself.
Her lively and deeply personal presentation explored the intersections of EMDR therapy, ADHD, and neurodiversity through the lens of both her clinical expertise and lived experience. Blending theory, practical tools, and grounded self-disclosure, Esther invited attendees into an honest dialogue about therapeutic adaptations for neurodivergent clients—while also modelling how embracing one’s own differences can be a therapeutic strength. From grounding exercises and sensory tools to thoughtful strategies for feedback and executive functioning challenges, the session offered a rich, experiential deep-dive into neurodiversity-affirming practice. It was a session filled with humour, honesty, and heart—best experienced in person, where the full impact of Esther’s insight and authenticity was felt most powerfully. If you missed it, you’ll definitely want to catch the next one live.