Carbajal awarded 2025 EMDR International Association Ambassador Award

Dr. Jose Carbajal, associate professor in Stephen F. Austin State University's School of Social Work, was awarded the 2025 EMDR International Association Ambassador Award during the organization's conference in Anaheim, California.

NACOGDOCHES, Texas -- Dr. Jose Carbajal, associate professor in Stephen F. Austin State University's School of Social Work, was awarded the 2025 EMDR International Association Ambassador Award during the organization's conference in Anaheim, California.

The award recognizes an individual with a strong reputation for expertise in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy, a treatment that helps people recover from trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder. According to Carbajal, EMDR therapy involves recalling a painful memory while engaging in bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements. This process can reduce the memory's intensity, making it easier to manage.

"I am truly honored to receive this recognition," Carbajal said. "In a world where trauma is all too common and many individuals carry invisible wounds; we need healers who can walk alongside others in their pain and bear witness to the transformation that EMDR therapy can bring. This award acknowledges the work I've been doing to help clinicians deepen their expertise in EMDR therapy and expand its healing impact."

Carbajal has authored more than 40 studies and delivered 44 peer-reviewed presentations at state, national and international conferences. His work includes six publications focused on EMDR therapy, 19 national and international presentations and workshops, and multiple university-based trainings.

Additionally, Carbajal is an EMDRIA-approved trainer and consultant, peer reviewer for the "Journal of EMDR Practice and Research," and has served on numerous leadership roles within EMDRIA.

"I didn't fully realize the significance of this award, or how much it takes to earn it, until EMDRIA President-elect Holly Forman-Patel read the award criteria and described the work I've done," Carbajal said. "To qualify, a recipient must be an EMDRIA member, have served at least as a director on the EMDRIA board of directors, and contributed through committee service, knowledge-sharing and leadership."

Carbajal plans to continue contributing to EMDR therapy, exploring new ways to apply and improve the therapy.

For more information about SFA's School of Social Work, visit sfasu.edu/socialwork.