proudly presents
Best Practices for EMDR with Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD):
A Neurodiversity-Affirming Approach
Friday, May 15, 2026
11:30am – 4:45pm ET
Live, interactive webinar on Zoom
Facilitator: Christine MacInnis, LMFT, EMDRIA Approved Consultant
EMDRIA: 5 credits
NBCC / ASWB: 4.75 CE hours
Live workshop limited to 50 participants.
All participants will receive access to the workshop recording for 60 days.
Workshop Registration Fee
Live Participation Fee: $225 USD
Recording-Only Purchase (No CEs): $150
The recording-only option provides on-demand access to the lecture content only and does not include live participation, experiential segments, or CE credit. Handouts, presentation slides, bibliography, and chat summary will be included as part of purchase.
Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD) is an intense emotional and physiological response to perceived or actual rejection, criticism, or social slights. While not formally recognized as a diagnosis in the DSM, RSD has been widely described in neurodiversity-affirming literature as a meaningful and impactful experience, most commonly experienced by ADHD individuals, and also present for some autistic individuals.
Because RSD is rooted in the perception of rejection, it can show up powerfully within the therapy room. Clients may quickly move into states of shame, fear, or distress, often in response to subtle cues that clinicians may not even be aware they are communicating. Without an understanding of RSD, therapists may unintentionally contribute to rupture or reinforce painful relational patterns. Additionally, aspects of the standard EMDR protocol may need thoughtful adaptation to fully support these clients.
This workshop offers a deeper understanding of the ADHD brain and the mechanisms that contribute to RSD, along with practical, neurodiversity-affirming strategies to support attunement and safety in the therapeutic relationship. Participants will learn how to recognize RSD in clinical work, avoid common pitfalls, and apply a 5-step EMDR-informed process designed to reduce the impact of rejection-based trauma.
Through lecture, demonstration, and experiential practice, clinicians will leave with tools they can immediately integrate into their work with neurodivergent clients.
Join us in a neurodivergent-affirming learning environment that reflects the very principles we’re teaching. Being on screen all day can be a lot—movement is encouraged, and you’re welcome to engage in ways that work best for you.
You’re invited to show up as you are. You don’t have to mask here.
Can’t sit still in a chair? Move, stretch, or spin around—we’re okay with that. Need to walk on a treadmill? Go for it. Prefer to lie on the floor and listen? That works too (just keep your video on 😊). If you learn best by asking questions, you’re encouraged to jump in at any point—we get it. If speaking up isn’t your thing, you’re always welcome to use the chat or send a private message.
Stim, move, and engage in ways that support your nervous system. All parts of you are welcome here!
Intended Audience
EMDR Trained Master’s level social workers, counselors, marriage and family therapists; psychologists; and other EMDR Trained licensed mental health professionals
Eligibility Requirements: PARTIAL EMDR TRAINING
This workshop is open to clinicians who are at least partially trained in EMDR which means they have completed part of an EMDRIA Approved Basic EMDR Training and/or still finishing their 10 hours of required consultation. It is recommended that participants have completed the full EMDR Basic Training and have experience in using EMDR with clients. This workshop is not an EMDR Basic Training.
Level of Content: Intermediate
Course Interaction
This workshop features a dynamic blend of didactic instruction, case-based examples, large-group discussion, video demonstration, live demonstration, and experiential practice in triads. Participants are encouraged to ask questions, share insights, and engage in instructor-led dialogue throughout the training. The trainer will provide a live demonstration of the clinical process and will be available to offer guidance, support, and feedback during small-group practice sessions.
Workshop Learning Objectives
- Participants will be able to identify at least three neurobiological, social-learning, and environmental factors associated with ADHD that contribute to the development and experience of Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD).
- Participants will be able to describe at least three therapist behaviors or interventions that support attunement and therapeutic alliance with clients experiencing RSD.
- Participants will be able to demonstrate at least three steps of the 5-step EMDR process for RSD Trauma Reduction.
Trainer Information
Christine MacInnis, LMFT, has been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for the past 15 years in California and, more recently, in Arizona and Ohio. She was also a licensed school counselor for 25 years in California and New York before leaving the field in 2022. She became a certified EMDR therapist in December of 2021 and is currently listed with EMDRIA as an approved consultant. In August 2022, she was approved as an EMDRIA-credentialed instructor and distance learning educator for her training on neurodiversity-affirming practices with EMDR. She also runs a consulting group that focuses explicitly on the practice of EMDR, with an emphasis on the intersectionality of LGBTQIA+ and neurodiverse populations. Her private practice work also specializes in this intersectionality. She is currently under contract with Norton Publishing, co-authoring a book entitled Neurodivergent Paths to Healing: Affirming EMDR and Parts Work for Autistic and ADHD Clients. More information about Christine and her work can be found on her website- www.transcendstherapy.com
Program Content and Timeline
Friday, May 15, 2026
11:30am – 4:45pm ET
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM | Introduction to Neurodiversity-Affirming EMDR & Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD)
This portion of the training will provide an overview of neurodiversity-affirming EMDR and how Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD) can be understood and approached within this framework. RSD will be introduced as a unique and often misunderstood response to perceived rejection, criticism, and social slights that is immediate, overwhelming, and physically intense. Participants will be introduced to how RSD differs from general sensitivity to rejection and why it is particularly relevant for neurodivergent clients.
12:30 PM – 12:40 PM | Break (10 minutes)
12:40 PM – 1:40 PM | Understanding the ADHD Brain and the RSD Response
This section will explore the explore the neurobiological, psychological, and environmental underpinnings of RSD in clients with ADHD. Participants will review current research on rejection sensitivity and pain responses in the ADHD brain, including the role of the limbic system, reduced inhibitory control from the prefrontal cortex, and the influence of social learning theory. This material will help clinicians understand why individuals with ADHD may experience heightened and rapid threat responses to perceived rejection.
1:40 PM – 1:50 PM | Break (10 minutes)
1:50 PM – 2:40 PM | Creating Attunement with the RSD Client
In this portion of the training, participants will learn how to establish and maintain attunement with clients who experience RSD, recognizing that the therapeutic relationship can feel like a “careful dance” due to the client’s sensitivity to perceived disapproval. Emphasis will be placed on therapist awareness of verbal and nonverbal communication, including tone of voice, facial expressions, and body language. Participants will be introduced to practical strategies to foster safety and connection, including incorporating RSD into intake discussions, providing psychoeducation, using appropriate self-disclosure when relevant, and maintaining a calm, compassionate, and regulated presence when clients become dysregulated or experience rupture. A recorded demonstration of the trainer applying the principles of attunement with a colleague acting as a RSD client in session will be presented for additional learning.
2:40 PM – 2:50 PM | Break (10 minutes)
2:50 PM – 3:40 PM | The 5-Step EMDR process for RSD Trauma Reduction (Demonstration)
This section introduces a 5-step EMDR-informed process designed to reduce the impact of trauma related to rejection, criticism, and social harm in clients with RSD. Informed by Laurel Parnell’s work on attachment and EMDR, this approach emphasizes the development of internal safety and the use of the therapist as a secure base. Participants will learn how positive relational experiences and attachment figures can help disrupt longstanding predictive biases formed through repeated experiences of rejection. The trainer will provide a live demonstration of the full process with a volunteer participant.
3:40 PM – 4:30 PM | Experiential Practice in Triads
Participants will engage in structured breakout practice in triads to apply the 5-step RSD Trauma Reduction EMDR Process. This experiential component allows participants to deepen their understanding through practice while receiving support. The trainer will be available to assist participants and provide guidance as needed.
4:30 PM – 4:45 PM | Integration, Q&A, and Closing
This final segment will include group processing of the practice experience, opportunity for questions, and integration of key learning points from the training.
Continuing Education (CE) Credit Information
Course Completion Requirements
To earn CE credit, participants must attend the entire course live and have their camera turned on, so attendance can be verified. Additionally, participants must complete an online course evaluation. Certificates of completion will be emailed after online course evaluation is completed via Flexiquiz.
CE Credits Available
Participants will receive 4.75 hours of continuing education (CE) credit upon completing this program. Carefully look at the approvals/acceptances that have been secured for the training for which you are registering.
This workshop qualifies for 4.75 continuing education clock hours as required by many national, state, and local licensing boards and professional organizations. Many states do not require specific approvals; several states require specific approvals; many accept national organization approvals or providers from other states. Save this workshop advertisement and certificate of completion, and contact your own board or organization for specific requirements.
By registering for this course, you agree to check in to and be knowledgeable about the continuing education approvals that are required for members of your profession in your state. You may contact Multiplicity of the Mind Learning Center with any questions PRIOR to the workshop.
EMDRIA: 5 Credits
Multiplicity of the Mind Learning Center is an approved EC Provider (#24005) and this program (#24005-11) is approved for 5 EMDRIA Credits. Eligibility for EMDRIA Credits is restricted to those who have completed an EMDRIA-Approved Basic EMDR Training. Participants must attend the entire workshop to be eligible for EMDRIA credits. No Partial Credit awarded. Multiplicity of the Mind Learning Center maintains responsibility for this program and its content in accordance with EMDRIA requirements.
NBCC: 4.75 CEs
Multiplicity of the Mind Learning Center has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7522. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. Multiplicity of the Mind Learning Center is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.
ASWB ACE: 4.75 CEs
Multiplicity of the Mind Learning Center, #2113, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: 07/23/2025 – 07/23/2028. Social workers completing this course receive 4.75 clinical continuing education credits.
New York does not accept ASWB ACE provider or course/conference approval.
What states accept ASWB ACE clock hours? LINK
CE Broker Registrations
Please note: Only the states below use CE Broker to record/track CEs. This is not a full list of states that will accept/recognize this workshop as an eligible source to meet CE requirements.
Florida: Accepted by & Registered with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling.
Kansas: Accepted by & Registered with the Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board for Marriage and Family Therapists, Professional Counselors,Social workers, and Masters Level Psychologists.
Michigan: Accepted by & Registered with the Michigan Board of Social Work.
Mississippi: Accepted by & Registered with the Mississippi State Board of Examiners for Licensed Professional Counselors.
New Hampshire: Accepted by & Registered with the New Hampshire Board of Mental Health Practice.
North Dakota: Accepted by & Registered with the North Dakota Board of Social Work Examiners.
Ohio: Accepted by & Registered with the Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board.
South Carolina: Accepted by & Registered with the South Carolina Board of Examiners for Licensure of Professional Counselors and Therapists.
South Carolina: Accepted by & Registered with the South Carolina Board of Social Work Examiners.
Tennessee: Accepted by & Registered with the Tennessee Board for Licensed Professional Counselors, Licensed Marital and Family Therapists and Licensed Clinical Pastoral Therapists.
Tennessee: Accepted by & Registered with the Tennessee Board of Social Workers.
Texas: Accepted by & Registered with the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists.
Texas: Accepted by & Registered with the Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors.
Texas: Accepted by & Registered with the Texas State Board of Examiners of Marriage and Family Therapists.
Texas: Accepted by & Registered with the Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners.
West Virginia: Accepted by & Registered with the West Virginia Board of Social Work
West Virginia: Accepted by & Registered with the West Virginia Board of Examiners in Counseling.
Registration Information
Live Participation Fee: $225 USD
Recording-Only Purchase (No CEs): $150 USD
Compassionate Access Adjustments
At Multiplicity of the Mind, we value accessibility and community care. We offer Compassionate Access Adjustments for clinicians who may need financial flexibility to attend. These fee adjustments reflect our belief that everyone deserves opportunities for learning and connection, regardless of financial circumstances.
If a reduced fee would make participation possible for you, please email us at info@multiplicityofthemind.com for a list of coupon codes for various discount amounts to use at checkout. While we’re unable to offer full scholarships at this time, we do our best to make participation accessible whenever possible. We’re also happy to arrange split payments via invoice if that makes it easier to register.
Registration Deadline: Please register by 5:00 PM, May 14, 2026, Eastern Time.
Cancellation and Refund Policy for Live Training Participation
Full refund, minus $25 administration fee, until April 15, 2026. After that date, there are no refunds for cancellation. Cancellation and refund requests shall be submitted in writing to info@multiplicityofthemind.com.
Recording purchases are final. Because this is a live training recording (not a studio production), minor audio or video imperfections may occur (for example, syncing quirks). By purchasing, you acknowledge this and agree that purchases are non-refundable based on production quality.In the very rare exception of a true technical issue that prevents access altogether, a refund will be provided.
Workshop Video Recording
This workshop will be recorded and available for viewing for 60 days after the workshop concludes. At Multiplicity of the Mind Learning Center, we recognize the value of recording workshop. Therefore, we have established the following policy regarding workshop recordings. Please review the recording policy HERE. Please note that only live participation will be eligible for CEs.
Disability Related Accommodations and Services
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (1990), Multiplicity of the Mind Learning Center will make reasonable adjustments or modifications to practices, policies and procedures, and to provide auxiliary aids and services for our training participants with disabilities. It is the responsibility of participants who seek disability-related accommodations and services to submit their requests in a timely manner prior to the training, notwithstanding emergencies or unexpected events that require services. Participants may request services during the registration process. Some services may require further written medical verification that supports the medical reason for the request (e.g., a supporting letter from their medical provider). To start this process, participants can complete the Request for Reasonable Accommodation Form and email it info@multiplicityofthemind.com.
System Requirements
Participants must have a stable internet connection and must use their own computer (not a cell phone) during the training. The computer must have a working camera and meet Zoom system requirements. To view more information on Supported Operating Systems, tablet devices, web browsers, processor/RAM, and bandwidth requirements click HERE.
Code of Conduct
By registering for and attending this workshop, you agree to adhere to our Code of Conduct for Workshops. Your participation signifies your commitment to fostering a respectful and inclusive learning environment for all attendees.
Complaints and Grievances
The goal at Multiplicity of the Mind Learning Center is to provide an effective learning experience for all participants. Prior to a scheduled workshop, if you have a problem with registration-related issues, e.g., issues with the registration form, payment, website, promotional materials, emails, you are expected to email Katie Wine-Appleton (info@multiplicityofthemind.com), as soon as possible.
During a training event, the trainer responsible for conducting the training has Multiplicity of the Mind Learning Center’s authority to address any concerns that arise during the actual training. Every effort will be made to address the concerns during the training to include changing practice partners, addressing staff issues, etc. If the trainer is unable to address the participant’s concerns, the complaints and grievances shall be presented in writing to Katie Wine-Appleton, LPCC-S, Founder, Multiplicity of the Mind Learning Center.
During and after the workshop completion, complaints and grievances regarding course content, promotional or educational materials, facilitator’s behaviors, workshop site, facilities, technological resources, or any other course-related issues, shall be presented in writing to Katie Wine-Appleton, LPCC-S, Founder, Multiplicity of the Mind Learning Center. Licensed Social Workers: Should social workers have a specific grievance, these grievances will be addressed by Helen Hill, LISW-S, the social work consultant for Multiplicity of the Mind Learning Center.
Multiplicity of the Mind Learning Center’s approach in resolving grievances is always from the perspective of what is in the fairest way to resolve the matter. All complaints and grievances are reviewed within 5 working days. Formal grievances are required to be written and emailed to info@multiplicityofthemind.com and will be responded to within 10 business days.
There are no known conflicts of interests for this workshop.
Correspondence from Continuing Education Provider
Multiplicity of the Mind Learning Center will send correspondence about the training, including an email confirmation when the registration fee is received. An email with the Zoom link and other important information will be sent one week prior to the workshop, followed by another email with workshop materials 24 hours before the event. These emails will come from info@multiplicityofthemind.com.
If you are not receiving these emails, please check your Spam folder as correspondence from new organizations often ends up there. Once you receive your first correspondence, please save the email address to your address book. If you have not received a confirmation email or other correspondence from us within three days of the event, it is your responsibility to reach out to us at info@multiplicityofthemind.com.
Contact Information for Questions and Assistance
Please contact Katie Wine-Appleton, Owner/CE Director for Multiplicity of the Mind Learning Center, with questions, concerns, etc. She can be reached at info@multiplicityofthemind.com