Using Spirituality in EMDR Therapy The Heart Led Approach

Preface

Acknowledgments

Foreword

PART 1

A spiritual perspective into psychotherapy

1          Transpersonal psychology and EMDR

2          Working spiritually and energetically with clients

3          BioPsychoSocioSpiritual approach to treating psychological distress

PART 2

A heart led approach to psychotherapy

4          The power of the ego

5          Mindfulness

6          Learning to live a Heartful and Soulful life

7          Teaching clients HLP

8          Soul level healing and Light Language

PART 3

Spiritually informed EMDR therapy

9          EMDR Phase 1: History taking

10        EMDR Phase 2: Preparation a. Resources

11        EMDR Phase 2: Preparation b. Part work, soul level work, rebirthing procedure and narrative EMDR

12        EMDR Phase 3: Assessment

13        EMDR Phase 4: Desensitisation

14        EMDR Phase 5 to 8: Installation to completion

15        Other considerations in EMDR Therapy

Afterword

References

Biography

Dr Alexandra Dent is a Registered and Chartered Clinical Psychologist working in independent practice in the UK. Areas of interest include trauma, attachment, mindfulness and spirituality. Alexandra is a Europe accredited EMDR Child and Adolescent Consultant, EMDR Consultant and Training Facilitator. She set up the UK Special Interest Group in EMDR and Spirituality in 2019.

"In her insightful book, Dr. Alexandra Dent, developer of Heart Led Psychotherapy (HLP), explores the profound synergy between EMDR and spirituality, elevating EMDR beyond mere symptom reduction. While EMDR is known for its effectiveness in alleviating distress, Dr. Dent reveals how integrating spiritual practices can deepen and enhance the healing process. Full of case examples, ways to explain new concepts, and practical tips, this book is perfect for EMDR therapists looking to deepen their practice with clients, demonstrating that EMDR's true potential lies in its ability to foster holistic, transformative growth."- Rotem Brayer, approved EMDR Consultant; author, The Art and Science of EMDR.

 

Jung said, “Science works harm only when it is seen as the only thing.” We are evidence-based professionals who respect the scientific studies that demonstrate why EMDR is effective. Our patients, however, often see their struggles as spiritual rather than scientific. It is difficult to find books brave enough to combine science with the spiritual. Dr. Alexandra Dent has combined both perspectives beautifully. Those interested in expanding beyond science to explore the spiritual aspect that EMDR elicits must read this beautiful book. - Dr. Andrew J Dobo, Licensed Psychologist, EMDRIA Approved EMDR Consultant and Trainer.  Author of: Unburdening Souls at the Speed of Thought: Psychology, Christianity, and the Transforming power of EMDR & The Hero’s Journey: Integrating Jungian Psychology and EMDR Therapy

A beautiful book, from a beautiful soul. Alexandra Dent’s highly accessible text expertly guides the reader on this important journey from the EMDR standard protocol to a full BioPsychoSocioSpiritual model. - Annabel McGoldrick, PhD of EMDRInsight.com.

“Dr. Alexandra Dent has combined both her passion for EMDR and spirituality within this informative work. The book invites EMDR clinicians to consider whether they are working through the lens of ego, or a heart and soul led approach and provides clinical case examples to illustrate her model. A heart and soul led approach is a welcome addition to the field.” - Nic Hartshorne, accredited EMDR clinician, secretary of the UK EMDR Spirituality Special Interest Group, chair of the BACP spirituality division

 

"Alexandra Dent’s Transpersonal Psychology and EMDR delves into the convergence of spiritual and psychological healing. Dent masterfully blends the transformative power of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) with the rich, expansive principles of transpersonal psychology. She offers a compelling approach for integrating spiritual dimensions into therapeutic practice, providing practitioners with innovative tools to support clients’ deeper healing and self-discovery. This book is a valuable resource for therapists, counsellors, and anyone interested in confidently incorporating soul-work into psychology.  A definite read for anyone committed to advancing their EMDR practice via expanding their understanding of the human experience, incorporating new tools and returning to the work of psychotherapy as caring for the soul."  - Oraine Ramoo, EMDR Certified Therapist & EMDRIA Approved Consultant