Keynote Sessions - 2026 EMDRIA Conference

Our keynote speakers bring unmatched expertise and real-world experience to the conference stage. They share fresh insights, practical strategies, and inspiring stories to energize and engage you. Don’t miss the chance to learn from leaders carefully selected to make your conference experience unforgettable!

The Future of EMDR

Suzy Matthijssen, Ph.D.

Keynote Session (Friday)
1.5 CEs

Description

In this keynote presentation, Suzy Matthijssen, Ph.D., explores the dynamic evolution of EMDR within the context of its origins, current challenges, and notable achievements. Reflecting on the historical milestones that have shaped EMDR, this talk examines the therapeutic challenges and breakthroughs that have underscored the modality's resilience and adaptability in mental health practices.

Dr. Matthijssen will discuss the critical advancements that EMDR has achieved in treating trauma and other psychological conditions, highlighting how these successes contribute to the foundation for future development. Looking forward, the presentation will address how EMDR is positioning itself in a rapidly changing world, emphasizing the necessity for innovative approaches in research, training, and practice to meet evolving clinical and societal needs.

Presenter Bio

Suzy Matthijssen, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist-psychotherapist, senior researcher, cognitive behavioral therapist and consultant, psychotraumatherapist NtVP, EMDR trainer in training, and is a lecturer at post-doctorate psychology specialization programs. She is the director of the PSYTREC Academy, responsible for research, training, and education. She is involved in research on the enhancement of trauma therapy, intensive trauma treatments, and the working mechanisms of trauma therapy. She is the vice president of the Dutch EMDR association and is a member of the scientific committee of EMDR Europe and the former cochair of the Council of Scholars; the future of EMDR project.

Clinical Implications of Current Controversies in EMDR Research

Chris Lee, Ph.D.

Keynote Session (Saturday)
1.5 CEs

Description

The evidence supporting EMDR as a first-line treatment for PTSD is widely endorsed across multiple international guidelines. However, a notable exception is the recommendations published by the APA in 2025. Associate Professor Christopher Lee will explore the reasons behind this discrepancy in this talk. Drawing on his research and the existing literature, he will identify the disorders for which we can confidently assert effective treatment outcomes and areas needing improvement.

Additionally, he will analyze which clients may not be appropriate for EMDR, acknowledging legitimate concerns and clarifying misconceptions. These include beliefs such as: EMDR poses risks for suicidal patients, it may compromise legal testimony, it is ineffective for refugees when interpreters are involved, and it does not provide long-term benefits for individuals with complex trauma.

Presenter Bio

Chris Lee, Ph.D., works in private practice and at the University of Western Australia. He is a certified trainer in EMDR. He has published research on personality disorders, depression, and PTSD, including three international multi-centred randomised controlled trials, two in treating complex PTSD and one treating borderline personality disorder. He has received two International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies awards and two EMDRIA awards for research excellence. EMDR Europe also awarded him the inaugural Francine Shapiro award for research excellence, and in 2024, the Jeff Young award for research excellence by the International Society of Schema Therapists.