Choosing an EMDR Therapist
by Jill Harmon, LCSW-R, CCTP-II
Choosing an EMDR therapist involves understanding training standards, consultation requirements, and credentialing distinctions.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a research-supported therapy designed to help people process trauma, anxiety, and distressing life experiences. When delivered according to the full protocol, it can be deeply transformative. Because EMDR is a comprehensive, eight-phase treatment model, the quality and structure of a therapist’s training are important.
If you are considering EMDR therapy, understanding what qualifies as formal training can help you make an informed decision.
What Is EMDRIA-Approved Training?
EMDRIA (the EMDR International Association) is a leading professional organization that establishes training and credentialing standards for EMDR therapy.
EMDRIA-approved basic training is completed by licensed mental health professionals and includes:
• Didactic instruction on the full 8-phase EMDR model
• Supervised practicum experiences
• Required consultation with an EMDRIA-approved consultant
This structured process ensures clinicians learn both the theory and application of EMDR within a supervised framework.
Once a clinician completes EMDRIA-approved basic training and the required consultation hours, they are considered EMDR-trained and are qualified to provide EMDR therapy within their professional scope of practice.
EMDRIA training emphasizes fidelity to the original protocol developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro. EMDR is not limited to bilateral stimulation or eye movements—it is a sequenced treatment approach that includes history-taking, preparation, assessment, desensitization, installation, body scan, closure, and re-evaluation.
Why Structure and Consultation Matter
EMDR involves activating distressing memories in a therapeutic and contained way. For this reason, preparation, pacing, and adherence to the full protocol are essential.
A clinician trained in the full model understands how to:
• Assess readiness for trauma processing
• Develop stabilization and regulation skills
• Monitor for dissociation or overwhelm
• Close sessions appropriately
Structured consultation is a required component of EMDRIA-approved training. During consultation, clinicians present clinical work to an experienced EMDR consultant, receive feedback, and refine their use of the protocol. This process supports clinical skill development and client safety.
Certification and Ongoing Commitment
EMDRIA Certification is an advanced credential beyond basic training. Certification is not automatic after completing the initial training. It requires:
• Additional EMDR clinical experience
• Extended consultation hours
• Continuing education in EMDR
• A formal application and review process
Certification reflects a continued commitment to the model and to ongoing professional development.
How Clients Can Verify Training
As a consumer, you have the right to ask about a therapist’s EMDR background.
Helpful questions include:
• Was your EMDR training EMDRIA-approved?
• Did you complete required consultation hours?
• Have you pursued certification or additional EMDR education?
Clients can independently search for EMDRIA-trained and EMDRIA Certified clinicians using the EMDRIA therapist directory available at emdria.org.
You do not have to choose our practice to use this resource. The directory is publicly available and can help you find an EMDR-trained clinician who fits your needs.
Choosing Carefully Matters
When seeking therapy for trauma, anxiety, or distressing life experiences, understanding the structure behind the treatment can provide reassurance.
EMDRIA-approved training represents a standardized and supervised pathway for learning the EMDR model. Asking about a therapist’s training background is a reasonable and appropriate part of selecting care.
Contact us for EMDR therapy at Mindfulness Matters Psychotherapy to learn more about how we can help.
