In early May 2026, I attended a workshop presented by Cassandra Manning MA, MSc on her EMDR+Music Integrated Model©: Using Music as an Interweave in EMDR©.
EMDR is already a powerful and well-established therapy approach, and many people benefit greatly from it.
At times, though, some people can find themselves worrying during EMDR:
• “Am I processing properly?”
• “Am I getting it right?”
• “Am I failing because nothing seems to be happening?”
As a practitioner, I already try to create a therapeutic space where there is less pressure to perform or force experience. What interested me about the use of music was the possibility that it might help people who become stuck, overthink the process, or go round in circles during therapy.
During the workshop, we practised experiencing EMDR ourselves in the role of client, which is an important part of learning any therapy approach as a practitioner.
I chose to work on a recent loss. What surprised me was the sense of spaciousness that emerged when music was introduced. I felt at ease with the loss in a grounded way. I noticed something had gently shifted in the way I was holding it.
As someone who has always loved music, I came away feeling genuinely interested in the possibilities this approach may offer for some people, particularly those who feel drawn to music, who become stuck in overthinking during therapy, or who feel apprehensive about EMDR itself.
I am introducing EMDR+Music into my practice for clients who feel it may be helpful for them.
Sarah
