Psychodrama, Addiction, and Defenses: From Protection to Connection
September 18, 2026 @ 8:30 am - September 20, 2026 @ 5:30 pm
Presented by Dr. Scott Giacomucci, DSW, LCSW, BCD, CGP, FAAETS, TEP
Dates: Friday, September 18, 2026 – Sunday, September 20, 2026 8:30AM – 5:30PM (Sunday until 3:30PM)– 21 CE Hours
Cost: $675 Professionals | $465 students (*write to us if cost is your only barrier)
Friday Only Option (7 CEs) – Cost: $250 Professionals | $165 Students
Location: Phoenix Center – 524 N. Providence Road Media, PA 19063
21 CE Hours for APA, NBCC, and PA social workers, counselors, MFTs, & Psychologists | 21 training hours provided towards experiential and psychodrama certifications.
(This workshop is included in the 2026 Trauma-Informed Psychodrama Training Program.)
About the Workshop
This experiential training explores the intersection of addiction, defenses, and psychodrama. Addiction is often rooted in pain, trauma, and shame and protected by layers of psychological defenses. These defense mechanisms and protector parts help with survival, safety, and comfort, but may block insight, connection, or change. This workshop offers a trauma-informed and strengths-based framework for working with defenses in psychodrama. Participants will learn how to work in action with various types of defenses to promote recovery from trauma, addiction, and mental health.
Action methods such as doubling, role reversal, and concretization will be demonstrated as tools to explore one’s relationship to defenses while preserving client safety and autonomy. Theoretical concepts from Moreno, psychodynamic theory, and trauma-informed care will be integrated into the teaching and practice.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify multiple psychodramatic interventions for working with defenses
- Describe at least two sociometric exercises for exploring defenses in a group
- Explain the value of psychodrama for addiction treatment and recovery
To Register for this Workshop
Please complete Steps 1 and 2. Registration is not confirmed until payment is received.
Step 1: Pay for the event by using our Paypal Payment System (you can enter a credit card as a payment option).
Step 2: Fill out the registration form using the same email you used for Paypal.
Step 3: You will hear from us with a confirmation email (the same one you used for PayPal and registration) indicating your registration and information about the event in a few days. All materials will be directed to the same email address including your certificate.
Important Information
*Please note that this is workshop will include both didactic and experiential learning components. The experiential learning structures include demonstrations of psychodrama and other experiential processes which often include (optional) personal disclosures from participants. While personal growth is often a byproduct of experiential learning in psychodrama, the primary purpose of this workshop is training. If you are seeking a workshop for personal growth or seeking a professional training event that is entirely didactic (lecture/powerpoint), this is probably not the best workshop for you.
For folks traveling from out of town, there is a new beautiful bed and breakfast just 1 block from the Phoenix Center that we recommend. It is within walking distance of downtown Media and plenty of shops/restaurants – https://www.gifford-risleyhouse.com. Mention Phoenix Center for a reduced rate.
No Conflicts of Interest or outside commercial support have been declared by the presenter or others involved in the program.
This workshop is designed primarily for psychologists, social workers, counselors, and therapists but other professionals may also find it helpful. The instruction designed at the intermediate level (though many new and advanced professionals may also find it helpful).
For the workshop schedule or other details or questions about the workshop, please contact us at Support@PhoenixTraumaCenter.com.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Continuing Education (CE) Approval Statements relevant to this workshop:
- Continuing Education (CE) Approval Statements relevant to this workshop:
- Phoenix Center for Experiential Trauma Therapy, LLC (Lic. #004115) has been approved as a pre-approved provider of professional continuing education for social workers (Section 47.36), Marriage and Family Therapist (Section 48.36) and Professional Counselors (Section 49.36) by the PA State Board of Social Workers, Marriage & Family Therapists and Professional Counselors.
- Phoenix Center for Experiential Trauma Therapy is approved by the Pennsylvania State Board of Psychologists (Lic. # PSY000215) to offer continuing education for psychologists.
- Phoenix Center for Experiential Trauma Therapy, LLC has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7013. Phoenix Center for Experiential Trauma Therapy, LLC maintains responsibility for the program.
I had a great experience with Denise Chain. She is professional and made me feel very comfortable. Denise helped me to process heavy childhood trauma using EMDR. I’m confident that I’ll be able to better cope with triggers related to that trauma. I highly recommend The Phoenix Center and Denise. I’d give 10 stars if I could!!
Carolyn Smith is probably one of the best therapists I've ever had, and we've only done one session.
I have had experience with therapy several times over my life, but when my wife passed, I needed help more than ever before. I found that help, and more, in the Phoenix Center for Experiential Trauma. They helped me so much in getting through that trauma, but they also have been instrumental in moving forward in my new life as I put all the pieces back together in a new and different way. I don't hesitate to recommend the team at the Phoenix Center for even a moment. They are wonderful!
At the lowest point in my life I reached out to several places but no one accepted my insurance or had waiting lists. I was referred to Phoenix for counseling for my PTSD. I have had 2 wonderful intern counselors thus far who have had their own individual styles of counseling; they both have kindness, compassion, and helpfulness in common.
1st, I'm thankful for a practice thst offers sliding scale pricing.
2nd, Im thankful to have professionals that understand my individuality while teaching me very useful technics to help myself in daily life.
A humble thank you to your practice for sharing my 2 therapist Alex and Kennesha. I will never forget how they helped start my path from survival mood to actually starting to live after years of trauma. 😊
1st, I'm thankful for a practice thst offers sliding scale pricing.
2nd, Im thankful to have professionals that understand my individuality while teaching me very useful technics to help myself in daily life.
A humble thank you to your practice for sharing my 2 therapist Alex and Kennesha. I will never forget how they helped start my path from survival mood to actually starting to live after years of trauma. 😊
My experience at The Phoenix Center has been nothing but positive. The treatment practices are effective and rewarding to its patients. I am so glad I chose to take part in what Phoenix has offer in my therapy. The atmosphere is relaxed and nurturing and Drew Weinstein has worked so hard to build to my complete trust in each session. I am so satisfied with my time at the Phoenix Center.
The work I’ve been able to engage in at the Phoenix Center has significantly improved my life. I highly recommend the amazing clinicians here to colleagues, friends, and clients! Having access to a space where I can foster personal and professional development has given me new insight and courage to be my authentic self. Thank you!!
Denise is the greatest. This office is awesome! Such a great experience getting the help I need here!
Love the staff here! Everyone here is skilled and knowledgeable to support clients through their journey.
I took the weekly in-person women's group with Danielle, exploring creative expressive arts for post-traumatic growth. As an artist, it took me time to fully understand how sacred this space was for healing and not performing.
My evolution in healing is in great part because of Danielle's facilitation style and the supportive community in the room each week. We were all on this journey together.
I fully understand the potential for creative practices within oneself and in communion with communities. I am grateful to Danielle and the Phoenix Center for working with me in my full humanity, including providing a sliding scale offering.
My evolution in healing is in great part because of Danielle's facilitation style and the supportive community in the room each week. We were all on this journey together.
I fully understand the potential for creative practices within oneself and in communion with communities. I am grateful to Danielle and the Phoenix Center for working with me in my full humanity, including providing a sliding scale offering.
Dr Scott has helped me find the strength in me to be the best psychodramatist I can be for my clients and community!
He heals and guides the healers with respect, honesty, and humility!
I look forward to returning to do some more training and workshops!
He heals and guides the healers with respect, honesty, and humility!
I look forward to returning to do some more training and workshops!
My experience with the Phoenix Center has been exceptional. The quality of their clinicians and trainings are top notch. Highly recommend!
There simply are no words to explain my gratitude and appreciation for the Phoenix Center for Experimental Trauma Therapy. For the first time, I was understood deeply and therefore able to recognize that the path forward required me to be the author of the narrative of the past. Trauma, when understood properly, CAN be transformed into a beautiful future!
I can’t say enough about the workshops and training programs offered by Dr Giacomucci and the Phoenix Center. I am 33 years into my career as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I have attended many trainings over the years to expand my clinical skills repertoire. The level of expertise and care put into each of the workshops I have attended at the Phoenix center has been top-notch—from the highly trained facilitators to the welcoming and comfortable facilities, everything is done with such quality. I also love the location, as Media has great places to grab lunch with a new colleague and window shop. I leave every time feeling confident and empowered to put the new things I’ve learned to work right away with current clients I’ve been feeling stuck with. I highly recommend the continuing education offerings of this very professional, cutting edge clinical training center. I also don’t hesitate to refer clients there for trauma treatment, as these folks really do have a level of expertise that I tend to refer out for.
Started by Scott Giacomucci, a brilliant, modest and highly ethical trauma treatment specialist. I would trust anyone in this practice because I trust Scott's judgment and high standards implicitly.
I attended a training at The Phoenix Center that Dr. Giacomucci facilitated. I found the experience to exceed my already high expectations in all domains. I received useful, helpful, rich information that encouraged further learning and development. I experienced the leadership and facilitation as professional, respectful, flexible, inclusive, and refreshing. I intend and hope to continue personal and professional growth with the Phoenix Center in the future and confidently recommend it.
The strengths-based psychodrama workshop was an incredible experience. Scott is a skilled educator and facilitator. I look forward to applying what I learned in my practice!
Dr Scott regularly conducts Trauma training sessions for our staff at the Manor of Hope. To say he is the best at what he does is an understatement. He is a total professional take difficult information and simplify it so it is easy for everyone to understand. An accomplished Author, lecturer, professor and the CEO of an amazing group of talented professionals at the Phoenix Trauma Center. Scott and his team will never let you down. He has my unqualified recommendation
Scott is a prodigy at trauma work and especially psychodrama and experiential therapy. He has put together a wonderful center to participate in important, symptom reducing experiences. I often send my own clients to Scott for important experiential work that impacts the brain so that they can experience success.
The Phoenix Center for Experiential Trauma Therapy is a must for anyone who needs to recover from trauma. Dr Giacomucci has created a center where the best of trauma focused techniques are used to get results in healing. Scott is a talented teacher and clinician and has recruited talented clinicians to provide stellar service. Highly recommended!!
Great and ethical practice. I have been to Scott’s trainings many times and have learned tremendous information and tools. Staff at Phoenix center are welcoming, professional and experienced. Will highly recommend for clients and for professional development growth.
I had a great experience with Denise Chain. She is professional and made me feel very comfortable. Denise helped me to process heavy childhood trauma using EMDR. I’m confident that I’ll be able to better cope with triggers related to that trauma. I highly recommend The Phoenix Center and Denise. I’d give 10 stars if I could!!
Carolyn Smith is probably one of the best therapists I've ever had, and we've only done one session.
I have had experience with therapy several times over my life, but when my wife passed, I needed help more than ever before. I found that help, and more, in the Phoenix Center for Experiential Trauma. They helped me so much in getting through that trauma, but they also have been instrumental in moving forward in my new life as I put all the pieces back together in a new and different way. I don't hesitate to recommend the team at the Phoenix Center for even a moment. They are wonderful!
At the lowest point in my life I reached out to several places but no one accepted my insurance or had waiting lists. I was referred to Phoenix for counseling for my PTSD. I have had 2 wonderful intern counselors thus far who have had their own individual styles of counseling; they both have kindness, compassion, and helpfulness in common.
1st, I'm thankful for a practice thst offers sliding scale pricing.
2nd, Im thankful to have professionals that understand my individuality while teaching me very useful technics to help myself in daily life.
A humble thank you to your practice for sharing my 2 therapist Alex and Kennesha. I will never forget how they helped start my path from survival mood to actually starting to live after years of trauma. 😊
1st, I'm thankful for a practice thst offers sliding scale pricing.
2nd, Im thankful to have professionals that understand my individuality while teaching me very useful technics to help myself in daily life.
A humble thank you to your practice for sharing my 2 therapist Alex and Kennesha. I will never forget how they helped start my path from survival mood to actually starting to live after years of trauma. 😊
My experience at The Phoenix Center has been nothing but positive. The treatment practices are effective and rewarding to its patients. I am so glad I chose to take part in what Phoenix has offer in my therapy. The atmosphere is relaxed and nurturing and Drew Weinstein has worked so hard to build to my complete trust in each session. I am so satisfied with my time at the Phoenix Center.
The work I’ve been able to engage in at the Phoenix Center has significantly improved my life. I highly recommend the amazing clinicians here to colleagues, friends, and clients! Having access to a space where I can foster personal and professional development has given me new insight and courage to be my authentic self. Thank you!!
Denise is the greatest. This office is awesome! Such a great experience getting the help I need here!
Love the staff here! Everyone here is skilled and knowledgeable to support clients through their journey.
I took the weekly in-person women's group with Danielle, exploring creative expressive arts for post-traumatic growth. As an artist, it took me time to fully understand how sacred this space was for healing and not performing.
My evolution in healing is in great part because of Danielle's facilitation style and the supportive community in the room each week. We were all on this journey together.
I fully understand the potential for creative practices within oneself and in communion with communities. I am grateful to Danielle and the Phoenix Center for working with me in my full humanity, including providing a sliding scale offering.
My evolution in healing is in great part because of Danielle's facilitation style and the supportive community in the room each week. We were all on this journey together.
I fully understand the potential for creative practices within oneself and in communion with communities. I am grateful to Danielle and the Phoenix Center for working with me in my full humanity, including providing a sliding scale offering.
Dr Scott has helped me find the strength in me to be the best psychodramatist I can be for my clients and community!
He heals and guides the healers with respect, honesty, and humility!
I look forward to returning to do some more training and workshops!
He heals and guides the healers with respect, honesty, and humility!
I look forward to returning to do some more training and workshops!
My experience with the Phoenix Center has been exceptional. The quality of their clinicians and trainings are top notch. Highly recommend!
There simply are no words to explain my gratitude and appreciation for the Phoenix Center for Experimental Trauma Therapy. For the first time, I was understood deeply and therefore able to recognize that the path forward required me to be the author of the narrative of the past. Trauma, when understood properly, CAN be transformed into a beautiful future!
I can’t say enough about the workshops and training programs offered by Dr Giacomucci and the Phoenix Center. I am 33 years into my career as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I have attended many trainings over the years to expand my clinical skills repertoire. The level of expertise and care put into each of the workshops I have attended at the Phoenix center has been top-notch—from the highly trained facilitators to the welcoming and comfortable facilities, everything is done with such quality. I also love the location, as Media has great places to grab lunch with a new colleague and window shop. I leave every time feeling confident and empowered to put the new things I’ve learned to work right away with current clients I’ve been feeling stuck with. I highly recommend the continuing education offerings of this very professional, cutting edge clinical training center. I also don’t hesitate to refer clients there for trauma treatment, as these folks really do have a level of expertise that I tend to refer out for.
Started by Scott Giacomucci, a brilliant, modest and highly ethical trauma treatment specialist. I would trust anyone in this practice because I trust Scott's judgment and high standards implicitly.
I attended a training at The Phoenix Center that Dr. Giacomucci facilitated. I found the experience to exceed my already high expectations in all domains. I received useful, helpful, rich information that encouraged further learning and development. I experienced the leadership and facilitation as professional, respectful, flexible, inclusive, and refreshing. I intend and hope to continue personal and professional growth with the Phoenix Center in the future and confidently recommend it.
The strengths-based psychodrama workshop was an incredible experience. Scott is a skilled educator and facilitator. I look forward to applying what I learned in my practice!
Dr Scott regularly conducts Trauma training sessions for our staff at the Manor of Hope. To say he is the best at what he does is an understatement. He is a total professional take difficult information and simplify it so it is easy for everyone to understand. An accomplished Author, lecturer, professor and the CEO of an amazing group of talented professionals at the Phoenix Trauma Center. Scott and his team will never let you down. He has my unqualified recommendation
Scott is a prodigy at trauma work and especially psychodrama and experiential therapy. He has put together a wonderful center to participate in important, symptom reducing experiences. I often send my own clients to Scott for important experiential work that impacts the brain so that they can experience success.
The Phoenix Center for Experiential Trauma Therapy is a must for anyone who needs to recover from trauma. Dr Giacomucci has created a center where the best of trauma focused techniques are used to get results in healing. Scott is a talented teacher and clinician and has recruited talented clinicians to provide stellar service. Highly recommended!!
Great and ethical practice. I have been to Scott’s trainings many times and have learned tremendous information and tools. Staff at Phoenix center are welcoming, professional and experienced. Will highly recommend for clients and for professional development growth.
© 2025 Phoenix Center for Experiential Trauma Therapy
Theme by Anders Noren — Up ↑