The Importance of Fun in the EMDR Classroom

The importance of connection, joy, and safety in trauma-informed learning spaces

When most people think about EMDR training for therapists, the first words that come to mind are usually: intense, emotional, or technical. And sure — the training is deep. But there’s something else that belongs in every trauma-informed classroom:

Fun. Lightness. Laughter.

At CFET, we believe that fun isn’t fluff, it’s a nervous system tool. When used intentionally, it helps learners regulate, connect, and stay present. And that’s when the learning really lands.

Fun Isn’t a Distraction in EMDR Training — It’s Regulation

Therapists come into EMDR training knowing that the work is serious, but we’re not at our best when we’re overwhelmed or shut down. The nervous system doesn’t integrate new information in a survival state.

That’s why we intentionally create training environments that feel safe, warm, and yes… even fun.

Through moments of laughter, story-sharing, and spontaneous joy, we help learners regulate in real time. This makes the material stick more effectively and models the kind of co-regulation we hope they’ll carry into their work with clients.

Fun says to the brain: you’re safe here. And safety is the soil where transformation happens.

How Connection Supports Learning in EMDR Classrooms

Our trauma-informed EMDR training is built on more than just protocols, it’s built on polyvagal theory, somatic principles, and attachment-based teaching. That means we aren’t just focusing on what’s being taught, but how it’s being absorbed.

When we’re in safe, connected learning environments, we activate the social engagement system — a biological foundation for curiosity, openness, and trust.

Therapists who feel seen and supported learn more, retain more, and bring more of themselves to the process.

Joy & Safety in Trauma-Informed Training Spaces

Think back to a training you loved, the kind that stayed with you. It likely wasn’t the PowerPoint or the textbook that made the difference. It was how you felt in the space.

In CFET trainings, we often hear things like:

“I didn’t expect to laugh this much.”
“This was the first training that felt like it met me where I am.”
“I actually felt like myself here.”

That’s because joy isn’t just a bonus. It’s a powerful signal to the nervous system that says: you don’t have to brace here. You can be curious. You can receive.

Why CFET’s EMDR Training Feels Different

From our 5-day immersive format to the way we structure group support and movement throughout the day, our EMDR trainings are designed for real humans with real nervous systems.

This work is sacred, and we honor that. But honoring it doesn’t have to mean making it heavy.

We hold space for depth and delight. For learning that’s rooted and regulated, and has room for fun.

Ready to Experience EMDR Training That Feels Human?

If you’re looking for EMDR training that honors your nervous system and offers a truly embodied learning experience, join us this fall or winter:

Upcoming EMDR Trainings for Therapists:

• New York – Oct 6–10 (hybrid)

• Titusville – Nov 10–14 (in person)

• Virtual – Dec 9–13 (fully online)

Explore the training calendar & register here

Frequently Asked (and Real) Questions

Q: Is EMDR training emotionally intense?
A: It can be, but we hold the process with care, humor, and regulation so it never feels unmanageable.

Q: Will I feel overwhelmed during the 5 days?
A: Many of our therapists say they expected to, but were surprised by how supported and energized they felt throughout the week.

Q: Can fun really belong in trauma training?
A: Yes. And at CFET, we believe it should.