Learning Objectives

This training explores the complex, well-documented relationship between trauma and addiction, highlighting how traditional addiction treatments have often reinforced shame and pathologized clients’ survival parts. Participants will gain an in-depth understanding of how early and ongoing trauma impacts neurobiology, coping mechanisms, and the development of substance use disorders, as well as how to avoid causing further distress or perpetuate shame in addiction recovery. Through a combination of lecture, discussion, and case material, participants will explore practical frameworks and trauma-informed strategies for assessment and treatment planning with this population. Integrating EMDR strategies, IFS principles, and advanced resourcing, participants will learn clinical adaptations that enhance trauma-informed, stigma-reducing EMDR practice. They will come away equipped with deeper knowledge and clinical tools to integrate into their EMDR work.

  • Define the neurobiological and psychological relationship between trauma and substance use disorders.

  • Describe how trauma influences brain development, memory, and the stress response system, particularly in relation to addiction vulnerability.

  • Differentiate between trauma-informed care and trauma-specific interventions in the treatment of addiction.

  • Identify the role shame plays in maintaining addictive patterns.

  • Apply trauma-informed strategies and clinical interventions for individuals with co-occurring trauma and addiction. Specifically, the Level of Urge to Avoid Protocol (Knipe)

Course curriculum

    1. Pendulation

    1. EMDR Tools for Trauma and Addiction

    1. Evaluation Form: EMDR Tools for Trauma and Addiction: from theory to practice

About this course

  • $65.00
  • 3 lessons
  • 0 hours of video content

Instructor(s)

Melissa Carr, LPC, CAADC

Melissa Carr, LPC, CAADC earned her Master’s degree in Professional Counseling from Rosemont College in 2013, where she developed a comprehensive understanding of psychology, treatment modalities, and the skills necessary to empower individuals to take control of their lives and strengthen distress tolerance. For more than a decade, she has specialized in working with individuals navigating addiction, co-occurring disorders, relational challenges, and broader mental health concerns. She finds deep fulfillment in supporting clients on their healing journey and helping them cultivate a stronger mind–body–spirit connection. In addition to holding certification as an Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC), she has extensive trauma-informed training and experience working with individuals with complex PTSD, including international survivors of human trafficking. Her clinical work spans diverse populations, ages, and diagnoses, and she integrates multiple counseling approaches to meet each client’s unique needs.

Additional Training Details

*Training content will be available to participants for 90 days after training date*

EMDRIA Credits: This training is approved (pending) for 2 EMDRIA Credits. A certificate for ECs is included in the price of the training (Approval # 22025-XX).

NY State licensed psychologists and  social workers: The Manhattan Center for Trauma Studies is recognized by the New York State Education Department’s State Board for Social Work as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed social workers #SW-0618. The Manhattan Center for Trauma Studies is recognized by the New York State Education Department's State Board for Psychology as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed psychologists #PSY-0032. This training provides 5 contact hours to licensed social workers and psychologists.

ADA Assistance: Workshops provided by the Manhattan Center for Trauma Studies are ADA compliant. If you are in need of assistance please contact us at [email protected].


Audio/video disclosure: This program will be audio and video recorded. 


Grievance Policy: We strive to create a training experience that enhances the clinical skills of participants while maintaining the highest degree of integrity and respecting the diversity of all. If you are dissatisfied with your experience, please contact us in writing at [email protected]. You will receive a reply within 5-10 business days.


The Manhattan Center for Trauma Studies (EC Provider: # 22025) maintains responsibility for this program and its content in accordance with EMDRIA requirements.


Cancellation and Refunds: If cancelling prior to two weeks before the training date, refunds will be provided in full minus a 5% processing fee.