Scaling Up Your Impact Podcast

In this episode of Scaling Up Your Impact, host Robyn Mourning sits down with Reba Machado, EMDR facilitator and therapist, to explore the power of community and connection in mental health work. Reba shares how she balances her roles as a clinician, practice owner, parent, and community leader, while cultivating meaningful relationships that support her clients, colleagues, and personal life. Listeners will gain practical insights into building supportive networks, fostering belonging, and sustaining a trauma-informed practice without burning out.Tune in to hear Reba’s strategies for integrating humor, humility, and grace into your professional and personal life, and discover how community can amplify your impact as a therapist.

In this inspiring episode of Scaling Up Your Impact, Robyn Mourning sits down with EMDR therapist Tony Parmenter to explore the innovative integration of nature, fly fishing, and EMDR therapy. Tony shares how being outdoors enhances nervous system regulation, supports co-regulation with clients, and creates a deeply grounding, therapeutic experience. He dives into his process, including using natural metaphors, slow bilateral stimulation, and playful engagement to help clients process trauma more effectively.Tony also discusses his experiential training programs for therapists, offering hands-on guidance for incorporating therapeutic fly fishing and nature-based EMDR into clinical practice. Listeners will leave with actionable ideas to expand their creativity, deepen their clinical work, and consider how nature can amplify healing.For more information on Tony’s trainings or to connect for therapy or consultation, visit https://seiyuinstitute.com/

In this episode of Scaling Up Your Impact, host Robyn Mourning welcomes Sarai Trujillo to explore the vital work of infant and early childhood mental health. Sarai shares her experiences as a therapist, mother of seven, and grandmother of ten, highlighting how relational support, attachment, and early interventions can empower parents to become healing agents for their children—even in the midst of life’s challenges.Topics include:Supporting parents in high-stress or complex environmentsIntegrating relational and therapeutic work with EMDRBuilding buffering relationships and community supportEncouraging growth mindset and embracing “whoopsie moments” in parentingPractical strategies for fostering attachment and social-emotional development from birth through early childhoodBooks & Resources Mentioned:Born for Love by Bruce PerryHunt, Gather, Parent by Dr. Michaeleen DoucleffSarai also shares tools like the Working Model of the Child Interview and tips for empowering parents while supporting relational and emotional development.If you’re a therapist, agency, or community professional interested in infant and early childhood mental health, Sarai offers training and consultation to help you integrate these strategies into your work. Connect with her here to schedule a consultation or bring a training to your team.

In this episode of Scaling Up Your Impact, Robyn Mourning sits down with Sarai Trujillo, licensed professional counselor and perinatal mental health expert, to explore how therapists and birth workers can support families during pregnancy and the postpartum period.Sarai shares her journey from grassroots birth justice work to providing trauma-informed EMDR therapy for birthing people and their families. They discuss sensitive periods of development, the concept of “open windows,” and how the perinatal period offers a unique opportunity for healing, trauma reprocessing, and empowerment.Listeners will learn about postpartum care plans, community-based support, and practical strategies for integrating EMDR and other interventions during this critical transition to parenthood. This episode is a must-listen for therapists, birth workers, and anyone interested in supporting families with mental health, autonomy, and well-being during the perinatal phase.Resources & Links:EMDRIA: Go With It Magazine – Perinatal Mental Health IssueOpen window research shared in the episodeConnect with Sarai Trujillo for consultation or support: https://coalescencehealth.com/

In this inspiring episode of the Scaling Up Your Impact podcast, host Robyn sits down with Colorado therapist Jennifer Pollock to explore her recent humanitarian EMDR work in Costa Rica. Jennifer shares how she used EMDR GAP protocols—including ASSYST, IGTP, and PRECI—to support women experiencing trauma, and discusses the powerful transformations she witnessed.The conversation highlights the importance of a stepped-care approach, cultural humility, and connecting with your “why” when doing trauma-informed care at home or abroad. Whether you’re an EMDR practitioner or simply passionate about mental health, this episode offers practical insights and moving stories from the front lines of trauma healing.Visit our website to access the show notes: https://scalingupemdr.com/podcast/

Schools are one of the most important environments for reaching children and teens—but how can EMDR therapy fit into these settings? In this episode of Scaling Up Your Impact, Kelly Smyth-Dent explores the opportunities and challenges of bringing EMDR into K–12 schools.You’ll learn:Why schools are uniquely positioned to support trauma healingHow EMDR can be adapted for children and adolescentsThe logistical realities of scheduling, space, and confidentiality in school systemsCreative ways EMDR can support students after crises, bullying, or chronic stressHow parents, teachers, and school staff can partner with therapists to reinforce healingWhether you’re a school-based clinician, a community therapist partnering with schools, or simply curious about trauma care for kids, this episode offers practical tools and inspiring ideas for making EMDR accessible where it’s needed most.👉 Learn more about EMDR trainings, including child and group protocols, at scalingupemdr.com.

EMDR isn’t just for private practice. In this episode of Scaling Up Your Impact, Kelly Smyth-Dent explores how EMDR therapy can be integrated into eating disorder hospitals, addictions recovery centers, and inpatient/residential mental health facilities—and why these structured settings can create unique opportunities for healing.You’ll learn:How EMDR addresses the root causes driving eating disorders, addictions, and acute mental health symptomsKey adaptations for high-acuity or medically fragile clientsHow to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams for maximum impactWays to use EMDR individually or in group formats within a treatment programWhether you currently work in a treatment center or want to bring EMDR into one, this episode offers practical insights for making it safe, effective, and sustainable.👉 Explore advanced EMDR trainings, including group protocols and intensives, at scalingupemdr.com

Curious about offering EMDR Intensives but not sure where to start? In this episode of Scaling Up Your Impact, Kelly Smyth-Dent walks you through everything you need to know to structure your first intensive—covering clinical planning, logistical details, pricing strategies, and how to sell without feeling salesy.You’ll also learn why getting trained in intensives matters—from identifying ideal candidates to managing extended processing safely and sustainably. Kelly shares tips for pacing, consent, follow-up, and setting policies that protect both you and your clients.Whether you’re thinking about adding half-day, full-day, or multi-day formats to your practice, this episode will give you the confidence to create an intensive that works—for you and your clients.👉 Learn more about EMDR Intensives Training at https://scalingupemdr.com/emdr-intensives-training/

Thinking about EMDR training but worried it might not be for you? In this episode of Scaling Up Your Impact, Kelly Smyth-Dent tackles one of the most common fears therapists have: “What if I invest in EMDR Basic Training and end up not liking it?”You’ll learn:Why this concern is completely normalWhat you actually gain from EMDR training—even if you never use EMDR as your main modalityHow to approach training with curiosity and get the most value from itWays EMDR skills can enhance your other therapeutic approachesWhether you’re skeptical, curious, or somewhere in between, this episode will help you decide if EMDR training is worth the leap.👉 Explore upcoming EMDR Basic Trainings at scalingupemdr.com

In the wake of disaster or collective trauma, timing matters. In this episode of Scaling Up Your Impact, Kelly Smyth-Dent breaks down the key differences between Crisis Response and Early Intervention, and how two powerful AIP-based group protocols—ASSYST-G and EMDR-IGTP—fit into each phase.You’ll learn:When to use each protocol for maximum impactHow ASSYST-G helps stabilize acute stress symptoms and prevent PTSDHow EMDR-IGTP supports deeper trauma processing three months after an eventWhy having both skills makes you an indispensable resource in humanitarian and community care settingsWhether you’re in private practice, agency or school based, or at a treatment center, this episode will help you understand how to bring the right intervention at the right time—so healing can begin sooner.👉 Explore ASSYST and EMDR GAP Trainings at scalingupemdr.com

Marketing your therapy services can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re not sure if being EMDR-certified makes a difference. In this episode of Scaling Up Your Impact, Kelly Smyth-Dent breaks down what actually attracts clients and how to market yourself as an EMDR therapist, whether you're trained or certified.We go beyond the usual tips and dive into:The difference between marketing and sellingHow to price and package EMDR services with confidenceCreative outreach ideas like experiential, educational, and relationship marketingEthical selling strategies that align with trauma-informed careWhether you’re just starting or ready to grow your reach, this episode will give you actionable, values-driven tools to expand your impact—without compromising who you are.👉 Learn more or find trainings to support your growth at scalingupemdr.com

In this episode of Scaling Up Your Impact, we explore the ASSYST protocol—an evidence-informed, nonverbal intervention designed to support clients in acute distress by helping stabilize their nervous systems and prevent the onset of PTSD.Host Kelly Smyth-Dent breaks down when and how to use ASSYST, how it differs from traditional coping strategies, and why it’s such a powerful addition to your clinical toolbox—especially for clients experiencing recent or ongoing trauma.You’ll learn how ASSYST works in session, who it’s for, and why it’s both a trauma intervention and a triage tool. Whether you're an EMDR therapist or not, this protocol has something practical to offer.👉 Learn more or enroll in the full online ASSYST training: scalingupemdr.com/assyst-complete-online-training

Curious about what really drives Scaling Up? In this episode of Scaling Up Your Impact, founder Kelly Smyth-Dent offers a candid, behind-the-scenes look at the heart and mission of Scaling Up. Whether you’re a longtime participant or just discovering us, you’ll learn what sets Scaling Up apart—and why accessibility, real-world practicality, and therapist support are at the core of everything we do.Kelly addresses the most common misconceptions about Scaling Up, clarifying that we’re more than just EMDR Intensives, that our trainings are for clinicians across all settings (not just private practice), and that you don’t have to be an expert to benefit from our programs. Plus, hear how we’re committed to anti-oppression, cultural responsiveness, and creating inclusive, supportive learning spaces for all therapists.Tune in to discover:The story and values behind Scaling Up’s approach to trauma trainingHow we’re making EMDR and trauma care accessible and practical for all cliniciansWhy therapist support and encouragement—not shame—are central to our philosophyWays you can get involved, from free resources to membership in the Scaling Up CollectiveReady to learn, connect, and grow with a community that puts clinicians first? Listen now and explore more at scalingupemdr.com.

Are you wondering if EMDR therapy is a good fit for your clients—or for your own clinical style? In this episode of Scaling Up Your Impact, host Kelly Smyth-Dent tackles the common hesitations therapists have about EMDR, from concerns about client caseloads to questions about therapy style and intensity.Kelly breaks down:Who actually benefits from EMDR (hint: it’s not just for PTSD)How EMDR can help with single-incident trauma, complex trauma, anxiety, grief, chronic pain, and moreWays EMDR integrates with your current therapeutic approach—whether you’re relational, somatic, or use other modalitiesWhat you’ll learn in EMDR Basic Training about safety, pacing, and client readinessIf you’ve ever been curious about EMDR but unsure if it’s right for your practice, this episode will help you make an informed decision. Learn how EMDR can expand your clinical toolkit and meet the growing demand for trauma-informed care.Ready to explore EMDR training or advanced support? Visit scalingupemdr.com for more info and upcoming dates.

In this episode of Scaling Up Your Impact, host Kelly Smyth-Dent tackles one of the most frequently asked questions among trauma-informed therapists: Can EMDR be adapted for group settings—and if so, what actually works?Kelly explores why group EMDR is an essential tool for reaching communities and clients who may not have access to traditional one-on-one therapy. You’ll get an inside look at two of the most widely used group protocols—G-TEP (Group Traumatic Episode Protocol) and EMDR-IGTP (Integrative Group Treatment Protocol)—and learn how these approaches make trauma care more accessible, scalable, and effective for a wide range of populations.Tune in to discover:The unique benefits and limitations of group EMDRHow protocols like G-TEP and EMDR-IGTP are structured and deliveredWhen group EMDR is appropriate—and when it’s notPractical tips for ensuring safety, containment, and ethical care in group settingsKelly also shares how Scaling Up’s EMDR GAP Training can equip you with the skills to confidently deliver group protocols, support high-need communities, and expand your impact as a trauma therapist.Curious about bringing EMDR to groups or ready to make trauma care more scalable? Learn more and register for EMDR GAP Training at scalingupemdr.com/gap-training.For more trainings, resources, and support, visit scalingupemdr.com.

In this episode of Scaling Up Your Impact, host Kelly Smyth-Dent breaks down one of the most common questions among EMDR therapists: What’s the real difference between being EMDR-trained and EMDR-certified, and why should it matter to you or your clients?Tune in as Kelly walks you through:What it means to be EMDR-trained (and what’s required to get there)The additional steps, supervision, and experience needed for EMDRIA CertificationHow certification can boost your credibility, confidence, and career optionsWhy both milestones matter for your professional growth and the safety of your clientsKelly also shares how Scaling Up’s fully online EMDR Certification Program can help you navigate the process with expert guidance, clinical training, and step-by-step support—no matter where you are on your journey.Whether you’re just starting out, considering certification, or supporting colleagues along the way, this episode will help you make informed decisions about your next steps in EMDR.Learn more about EMDR Certification and access helpful resources at scalingupemdr.com/certification-program and emdria.org.Ready to deepen your skills and confidence? Listen now and keep scaling up your impact.

In this episode of Scaling Up Your Impact, host Kelly Smyth-Dent explores the urgent need for trauma-informed care among veterans, service members, and their families—and how EMDR Therapy is helping to close the gap. Discover why military-connected clients face unique barriers to mental health support, and how EMDR offers a practical, research-backed path to healing that honors their boundaries and experiences.Kelly shares the story behind Scaling Up’s fully funded EMDR Basic Training initiative in Arizona, made possible by the Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services. Learn how over 400 clinicians have received comprehensive, EMDRIA-approved training at no cost, equipping them to better serve those who’ve served us all.Whether you’re a therapist working with veterans, a clinician new to EMDR, or simply passionate about trauma care, this episode unpacks:The ripple effects of trauma in military familiesHow EMDR transforms both client outcomes and clinician confidenceDetails about the Arizona EMDR Basic Training program—and who it’s forWhy building a trauma-informed workforce matters now more than everReady to make a difference in your community? Listen in, get inspired, and find out how you can join the movement to scale up your impact—one client, one training, one healing conversation at a time.Learn more at scalingupemdr.com.

Episode 3 - ADAPTING EMDR PROTOCOLS FOR REAL-WORLD IMPACTIn this illuminating episode of the Scaling Up Your Impact Podcast, we dive into the essential practice of adapting EMDR protocols to meet diverse client needs while maintaining therapeutic integrity. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) has transformed trauma therapy with its structured approach, but real-world application often requires thoughtful flexibility.Our expert team explores why adaptation matters—not as a compromise of quality, but as an expansion of possibility. We break down three powerful adaptations taught in our professional trainings:EMDR Protocol for Recent Events (EMDR-PRECI): Learn how this adaptation allows therapists to address fresh trauma before symptoms become entrenched, supporting clients through immediate aftermath and ongoing stress with proactive intervention strategies.EMDR-Integrative Group Treatment Protocol (EMDR-IGTP): Discover how this widely-researched approach enables healing at scale, making trauma therapy accessible to communities experiencing collective trauma through structured, predictable elements that balance individual processing with shared healing.EMDR Intensives: Explore the transformative potential of concentrated treatment—multiple hours per day or consecutive days—for clients who need accelerated processing, are geographically distant, or have reached plateaus in weekly therapy.Whether you're a seasoned EMDR practitioner looking to expand your clinical toolkit or a newly trained therapist navigating complex client presentations, this episode offers practical insights for making EMDR more responsive, accessible, and effective in diverse contexts.Join us as we examine how thoughtful adaptation allows therapists to honor EMDR's powerful core mechanisms while building bridges to meet the messy, beautiful, urgent needs of real people in the real world.The Scaling Up Podcast delivers expert training, clinical pearls, and implementation strategies for trauma therapists committed to expanding their impact. Visit ScalingUpEMDR.com for more resources, training opportunities, and community support.#EMDRtherapy #TraumaTherapy #EMDRtraining #GroupEMDR #EMDRintensives #TherapistDevelopment

Episode 1: Welcome to Scaling Up Your Impact – Where Clinical Excellence Meets Sustainable GrowthShort on time, big on purpose? Welcome to the inaugural episode of Scaling Up Your Impact, the podcast created specifically for busy trauma therapists and EMDR clinicians seeking to elevate their practice without burning out.In this first episode, we introduce you to the Scaling Up community—a global network of thousands of trauma-informed clinicians who've trained with us since 2018. You'll discover why we launched this podcast and how our unique approach of blending real Scaling Up team voices with innovative AI-hosted content allows us to deliver consistent, accessible clinical wisdom to therapists worldwide.Learn what makes our podcast different: bite-sized, actionable strategies rooted in real-world clinical experience rather than just theory. Whether you're newly trained in trauma approaches or a seasoned EMDR practitioner, each weekly episode offers practical tools, transformative mindset shifts, and evidence-informed techniques you can implement immediately with clients.Join us as we share our vision for scaling up collective impact in the trauma therapy field—one purposeful episode at a time. From preventing therapist burnout to refining complex clinical skills, we're here to support your growth journey with the perfect blend of inspiration and practicality.Tune in, subscribe, and become part of a community that values both clinical excellence and sustainable practice. New episodes drop weekly, with occasional companion resources available at scalingupemdr.com.Let's scale up our impact together! Learn more at www.scalingupemdr.com 

Episode 2: A Stepped Care Approach to Mental HealthIn today’s episode of Scaling Up Your Impact, Kelly Smyth-Dent, LCSW, introduces the Stepped Care Approach — a transformative model for trauma treatment that flips the traditional method on its head.Instead of rushing into trauma processing, Kelly explains why stabilization must come first. Drawing powerful parallels between emergency medicine and therapy, she outlines the three essential steps for effective trauma care:StabilizationAssessment and Treatment PlanningAdvanced CareYou’ll discover how Scaling Up’s ASSYST Intervention helps regulate clients’ nervous systems, why EMDR therapy is the ideal next step, and how specialized tools like the EMDR-GAP Training and EMDR Intensives can address even the most complex cases.If you're a mental health professional—or simply passionate about trauma-informed care—this episode will give you practical, powerful insights to enhance healing while protecting clients' nervous system integrity.Want more? Get worksheets, episode updates, and Scaling Up resources straight to your inbox! Sign up for our newsletter and explore more at www.scalingupemdr.com.