The first training in trauma-oriented therapy using the EMDR method in Kyrgyzstan.

August 29, 2023

On August 11th, the Counseling Service of AUCA conducted the first-ever EMDR ( Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) training in Kyrgyzstan. This innovative technique was first implemented to treat post-traumatic stress disorder. However, it is currently applied in several therapeutic contexts. The training was conducted for all the specialists who are involved in working with patients with traumatic backgrounds. For AUCA Counseling service, it is crucially important since a significant part of the student community is dealing with the memories of traumatic events of the past and distressing situations and experiences. Hence, the community of AUCA counseling service and TSI college, and other specialists collaborated during the training. It is essential to mention that the first certified Russian-speaking specialist was invited to the training. Yulia Malik is a member of the National Association of EMDR. Yulia is an EMDR practitioner, supervisor, certified trainer of the European Association of EMDR, and practicing psychologist. 

“These trainings are conducted to work with the trauma that the whole world is filled with, unfortunately. The founder of this method, Francine Shapiro, set out to heal the world from trauma. Our mission is to train specialists who work with trauma in all people of all ages. Since 2013, it has been a WHO-recommended method of working with PTSD", says Yulia Malik.

The event is held under the auspices of the European EMDR Association.  The training took place over two days, during which the Kyrgyz Association of EMDR Therapists was established, which will later become part of the EMDR Association.

On the first day of the training, the President of the EMDR Association made a speech, welcoming all participants. The participants of the training were specialists from crisis centers, various organizations, and shelters for people of different ages. Participants were invited to complete two modules under the aegis of trainers and supervisors for further certification. Within 3 months, along with supervisors, they will carry out practical activities. Consequently, they can receive certificates for the accreditation of EMDR specialists and will be able to enter the register of the European Association of Therapists. 

Michael Freese, Dean of Student Affairs, Office of the VP for Academic Affairs, speaks about the importance of conducting this kind of training here at AUCA: “This is the leading approach in therapy, especially for dealing with individuals who have experienced some forms of trauma. This is relevant for the large cohort of students who could have experienced trauma. Most international organizations recognize EMDR as a form of professional development for Counselors. This is extremely important for our Counselor at AUCA participating in this training. There are 6 Counselors for staff and Faculty, and several Counselors from TSI are undergoing this. As professionals, it is important for them to be aware of the leading methods being promoted worldwide and ensure that they are ready to deal with any circumstances that arise throughout the academic year and off-months.”

AUCA Consulting Service extends its gratitude to the University Administration, particularly Chyngyz Shamshiev and Michael Freese, for their invaluable assistance and unwavering support in facilitating this training and furthering the initiatives of the Consulting Service. 

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