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Therapeutic Adaptations for Aphantasia
Presenter: Reva Cook, LCSW, PMH-C, EMDRIA Consultant
Date: November 10, 2026 | 2:00 PM MST
Format: Live, synchronous webinar | 1 hour
Content Level: Introductory
Target Audience: Clinical mental health providers
CE Credits: 1 continuing education credit
Certificates Available: ASWB/ACE, AASECT, THGI
Course Description
This training introduces clinicians to aphantasia, a neurocognitive difference marked by little or no voluntary mental imagery, and how it can impact clients in therapy. Participants will review current scientific understanding of the aphantasic spectrum and explore how common therapeutic techniques such as guided imagery, visualization exercises, and imagery-based trauma processing may unintentionally exclude or frustrate clients who experience little or no mental imagery.
Through lecture, live demonstration, and structured role-play, attendees will build skills to assess clients for aphantasia and identify specific, practical adaptations to their clinical approach that support improved therapeutic outcomes for clients on the aphantasic spectrum.
Learning Objectives
At the conclusion of this training, attendees will be able to:
Explain what aphantasia is, understand the current scientific information and knowledge about it, and how to apply that knowledge to their therapeutic practice.
Assess for and identify clients who are on the aphantasic spectrum.
Identify specific adaptations they can make to their therapeutic practice that will improve positive outcomes for clients who are on the aphantasic spectrum.
Limitations, Risks, & Benefits
This training provides a foundational introduction to the subject matter and is not intended to be comprehensive; clinicians seeking additional depth are encouraged to pursue further specialized education. The course is delivered via an online platform, which may limit interactivity compared to in-person learning experiences. Participants may experience mild discomfort or vulnerability as they engage in sensitive topics, role-play, and interactive discussions, or as existing assumptions and worldviews are challenged; however, no risks beyond this are anticipated. Benefits of participation include increased understanding of the material, the ability to translate concepts into clinical practice, and the development of foundational knowledge and practical skills that enhance confidence, competence, and comfort in delivering compassionate, inclusive mental health care.
Cultural Sensitivity
This training emphasizes honoring the inherent worth and dignity of every person while advancing social justice within healthcare and social work practice. Grounded in core social work values, including the importance of human relationships, professional competence, and client-centered care, the course uses interactive practice to strengthen providers' ability to create safe, inclusive clinical spaces and improve overall clinical competency. Working competently and respectfully with mental health clients is framed as a social justice issue, particularly in communities where providers across specialties must be skilled, open, and responsive to the diverse needs of the clients they serve.
Representation of diversity is addressed by recognizing aphantasia as part of the broader spectrum of human neurocognitive differences and integrating this perspective throughout the course content, in alignment with the standards related to cultural competence, social diversity, and dignity and worth of the person. The training frames aphantasia as a natural variation in cognitive functioning rather than a deficit, and discussion activities encourage clinicians to consider how neurodiversity intersects with other aspects of identity and lived experience. By emphasizing flexible, client-centered adaptations rather than prescriptive approaches, the training supports clinicians in providing inclusive care that respects diverse cognitive experiences and promotes equitable access to effective therapeutic interventions.
Course Content
This course features expert-led lectures and facilitated discussions, live demonstrations, and structured role-play exercises to support skill development in initiating and navigating clinically relevant conversations. Guided reflection and Q&A provide opportunities for participants to explore questions and integrate learning, while observed participation in role-play and discussions allows for real-time feedback from the facilitator and peers. Through these learning activities, participants will gain an understanding of aphantasia, review current scientific knowledge related to the aphantasic spectrum, and learn how to apply this information to therapeutic practice.
Relevance
Drawing from current research and data, this training supports informed clinical interventions and ethical treatment recommendations that promote clients' long-term growth and healing, while equipping mental health providers to engage in critical, stigma-reducing conversations that address disparities and empower clients in navigating their well-being. The training expands clinicians' understanding of neurocognitive diversity and its impact on therapeutic practice, since many widely used therapeutic approaches rely on visualization or imagery-based techniques that may be ineffective or confusing for clients with aphantasia; by helping clinicians recognize and assess for this cognitive difference, the training equips providers with practical strategies to adapt their interventions and improve therapeutic outcomes. By increasing awareness of aphantasia and providing evidence-informed adaptations for clinical practice, the training strengthens professional competence, helps clinicians avoid unintentionally marginalizing clients whose cognitive experiences differ from dominant assumptions in therapy, and supports ethical practice by encouraging clinicians to assess individual client needs and tailor interventions accordingly, rather than relying on one-size-fits-all therapeutic techniques.
About the Presenter
Reva Cook, LCSW, PMH-C, is a licensed clinical social worker, EMDR-certified therapist, and EMDRIA Consultant who specializes in trauma recovery and helping individuals reconnect with safety, joy, and a strong sense of self. Her background as an ER crisis worker shaped her deep understanding of both human suffering and resilience.
Reva's clinical work focuses on supporting women through trauma related to pregnancy, childbirth, parenting, family of origin dynamics, religion, and sexual abuse. She collaborates closely with clients to reduce reactivity, stress, anxiety, and depression while strengthening connection, self-esteem, and overall well-being.
As the Clinical Director of The Healing Group, Reva is dedicated to mentoring therapists and fostering high-quality, trauma-informed care. She also serves as a trainer, EMDRIA Consultant, and media contributor, sharing insights on trauma recovery and emotional wellness.
Course Details
Delivery method: Live webinar via the Institute learning platform
Course interactivity: Lecture and didactic instruction with live Q&A
Posttest/quiz: Because this is a live course, a standard posttest is not required. Participation will be monitored throughout the session.
Certificate issuance: Certificates of credit will be issued immediately after course completion to participants who attend the full session and complete the course evaluation.
Contact for questions: institute@thehealinggroup.com
Accessibility accommodations: To request accessibility accommodations, please contact institute@thehealinggroup.com prior to the event. We are committed to making our trainings accessible to all participants.
Registration
Register online at thehealinggroupinstitute.com. Refunds are not available. Full refund and cancellation policy is available on the website.
Commercial Support & Conflict of Interest Disclosure
No commercial entity has provided funding or support for this course. Reva Cook has no relevant conflicts of interest to disclose.
ASWB ACE Statement
The Healing Group Institute, provider number 2716, 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: 3/31/26 – 3/31/27. Social workers completing this course receive 1 continuing education credit.
AASECT CKA
A. Ethics and ethical behavior.
N. Learning theory and its application.
O. Professional communication and personal reflection skills.
AASECT ST
E. Principles of consultation, collaboration, and referral.
F. Ethical decision-making and best practice.
This program meets the requirements of the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT) and is approved for CE credits. These CE credits may be applied toward AASECT certification and renewal of certification. Completion of this program does not ensure or guarantee AASECT certification. For further information please contact info@aasect.org.
Presenter: Reva Cook, LCSW, PMH-C, EMDRIA Consultant
Date: November 10, 2026 | 2:00 PM MST
Format: Live, synchronous webinar | 1 hour
Content Level: Introductory
Target Audience: Clinical mental health providers
CE Credits: 1 continuing education credit
Certificates Available: ASWB/ACE, AASECT, THGI
Course Description
This training introduces clinicians to aphantasia, a neurocognitive difference marked by little or no voluntary mental imagery, and how it can impact clients in therapy. Participants will review current scientific understanding of the aphantasic spectrum and explore how common therapeutic techniques such as guided imagery, visualization exercises, and imagery-based trauma processing may unintentionally exclude or frustrate clients who experience little or no mental imagery.
Through lecture, live demonstration, and structured role-play, attendees will build skills to assess clients for aphantasia and identify specific, practical adaptations to their clinical approach that support improved therapeutic outcomes for clients on the aphantasic spectrum.
Learning Objectives
At the conclusion of this training, attendees will be able to:
Explain what aphantasia is, understand the current scientific information and knowledge about it, and how to apply that knowledge to their therapeutic practice.
Assess for and identify clients who are on the aphantasic spectrum.
Identify specific adaptations they can make to their therapeutic practice that will improve positive outcomes for clients who are on the aphantasic spectrum.
Limitations, Risks, & Benefits
This training provides a foundational introduction to the subject matter and is not intended to be comprehensive; clinicians seeking additional depth are encouraged to pursue further specialized education. The course is delivered via an online platform, which may limit interactivity compared to in-person learning experiences. Participants may experience mild discomfort or vulnerability as they engage in sensitive topics, role-play, and interactive discussions, or as existing assumptions and worldviews are challenged; however, no risks beyond this are anticipated. Benefits of participation include increased understanding of the material, the ability to translate concepts into clinical practice, and the development of foundational knowledge and practical skills that enhance confidence, competence, and comfort in delivering compassionate, inclusive mental health care.
Cultural Sensitivity
This training emphasizes honoring the inherent worth and dignity of every person while advancing social justice within healthcare and social work practice. Grounded in core social work values, including the importance of human relationships, professional competence, and client-centered care, the course uses interactive practice to strengthen providers' ability to create safe, inclusive clinical spaces and improve overall clinical competency. Working competently and respectfully with mental health clients is framed as a social justice issue, particularly in communities where providers across specialties must be skilled, open, and responsive to the diverse needs of the clients they serve.
Representation of diversity is addressed by recognizing aphantasia as part of the broader spectrum of human neurocognitive differences and integrating this perspective throughout the course content, in alignment with the standards related to cultural competence, social diversity, and dignity and worth of the person. The training frames aphantasia as a natural variation in cognitive functioning rather than a deficit, and discussion activities encourage clinicians to consider how neurodiversity intersects with other aspects of identity and lived experience. By emphasizing flexible, client-centered adaptations rather than prescriptive approaches, the training supports clinicians in providing inclusive care that respects diverse cognitive experiences and promotes equitable access to effective therapeutic interventions.
Course Content
This course features expert-led lectures and facilitated discussions, live demonstrations, and structured role-play exercises to support skill development in initiating and navigating clinically relevant conversations. Guided reflection and Q&A provide opportunities for participants to explore questions and integrate learning, while observed participation in role-play and discussions allows for real-time feedback from the facilitator and peers. Through these learning activities, participants will gain an understanding of aphantasia, review current scientific knowledge related to the aphantasic spectrum, and learn how to apply this information to therapeutic practice.
Relevance
Drawing from current research and data, this training supports informed clinical interventions and ethical treatment recommendations that promote clients' long-term growth and healing, while equipping mental health providers to engage in critical, stigma-reducing conversations that address disparities and empower clients in navigating their well-being. The training expands clinicians' understanding of neurocognitive diversity and its impact on therapeutic practice, since many widely used therapeutic approaches rely on visualization or imagery-based techniques that may be ineffective or confusing for clients with aphantasia; by helping clinicians recognize and assess for this cognitive difference, the training equips providers with practical strategies to adapt their interventions and improve therapeutic outcomes. By increasing awareness of aphantasia and providing evidence-informed adaptations for clinical practice, the training strengthens professional competence, helps clinicians avoid unintentionally marginalizing clients whose cognitive experiences differ from dominant assumptions in therapy, and supports ethical practice by encouraging clinicians to assess individual client needs and tailor interventions accordingly, rather than relying on one-size-fits-all therapeutic techniques.
About the Presenter
Reva Cook, LCSW, PMH-C, is a licensed clinical social worker, EMDR-certified therapist, and EMDRIA Consultant who specializes in trauma recovery and helping individuals reconnect with safety, joy, and a strong sense of self. Her background as an ER crisis worker shaped her deep understanding of both human suffering and resilience.
Reva's clinical work focuses on supporting women through trauma related to pregnancy, childbirth, parenting, family of origin dynamics, religion, and sexual abuse. She collaborates closely with clients to reduce reactivity, stress, anxiety, and depression while strengthening connection, self-esteem, and overall well-being.
As the Clinical Director of The Healing Group, Reva is dedicated to mentoring therapists and fostering high-quality, trauma-informed care. She also serves as a trainer, EMDRIA Consultant, and media contributor, sharing insights on trauma recovery and emotional wellness.
Course Details
Delivery method: Live webinar via the Institute learning platform
Course interactivity: Lecture and didactic instruction with live Q&A
Posttest/quiz: Because this is a live course, a standard posttest is not required. Participation will be monitored throughout the session.
Certificate issuance: Certificates of credit will be issued immediately after course completion to participants who attend the full session and complete the course evaluation.
Contact for questions: institute@thehealinggroup.com
Accessibility accommodations: To request accessibility accommodations, please contact institute@thehealinggroup.com prior to the event. We are committed to making our trainings accessible to all participants.
Registration
Register online at thehealinggroupinstitute.com. Refunds are not available. Full refund and cancellation policy is available on the website.
Commercial Support & Conflict of Interest Disclosure
No commercial entity has provided funding or support for this course. Reva Cook has no relevant conflicts of interest to disclose.
ASWB ACE Statement
The Healing Group Institute, provider number 2716, 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: 3/31/26 – 3/31/27. Social workers completing this course receive 1 continuing education credit.
AASECT CKA
A. Ethics and ethical behavior.
N. Learning theory and its application.
O. Professional communication and personal reflection skills.
AASECT ST
E. Principles of consultation, collaboration, and referral.
F. Ethical decision-making and best practice.
This program meets the requirements of the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT) and is approved for CE credits. These CE credits may be applied toward AASECT certification and renewal of certification. Completion of this program does not ensure or guarantee AASECT certification. For further information please contact info@aasect.org.
