EMDR Pakistan had the honor of hosting an advanced training led by internationally renowned EMDR trainer and former President of the EMDR International Association, Mark Nickerson, from the United States. The two-day hybrid training, held on 18 and 19 May 2024, focused on the theme “Breaking the Cycle – EMDR-Based Therapy Solutions for Problematic Behaviours including Anger, Violence, Addictions and More.”

The training brought together a vibrant community of 90 participants, including 29 international attendees from seven countries such as India, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and the United Kingdom. From within Pakistan, 61 professionals joined, with 25 attending in person and 36 participating online.

Over the course of the program, Mr. Nickerson expertly guided participants in conceptualizing and practicing EMDR-based approaches for addressing challenging behaviors. His use of facilitator demonstrations, volunteer live sessions, and role plays offered participants hands-on experience that translated complex concepts into practical clinical tools. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many attendees noting that the skills acquired would directly enhance their ability to work with clients struggling with problematic patterns such as anger, procrastination, and addictive behaviors.

In addition to the formal training, Mr. Nickerson engaged warmly with the EMDR Pakistan team and participants in informal settings, further strengthening professional ties and collaborative spirit. His appearance on national television also served to highlight the role of EMDR in advancing trauma-informed care and building mental health capacity in Pakistan.

The event not only enriched the skills of EMDR practitioners locally and globally but also strengthened Pakistan’s growing connection with the international EMDR community. EMDR Pakistan expresses deep gratitude to Mr. Nickerson for his valuable contribution and looks forward to future opportunities for continued collaboration and advanced learning.