The therapy and mental health field has sooooo many acronyms and credentials that can really get confusing especially when looking for a qualified EMDR therapist. You may even come across different phrases including “EMDR trained” and “EMDR certified". While both indicate completion of a basic EMDR training program, there are some important distinctions between the two.

EMDR Trained Therapist
An EMDR trained therapist has completed an EMDR basic training program that meets standards set by and has been approved by the EMDR International Association (EMDRIA). Basic EMDR trainings typically include:

• At least 20 hours of instructional material
• 20 hours of supervised practicum
• 10 hours of consultation with an EMDRIA approved consultant

After completing this training, a therapist is considered competent to begin using EMDR in their practice under ongoing consultation and self-development.

More information about EMDR basic training can be found on EMDRIA’s website here.

EMDR Certified Therapist^TM
An EMDR Certified Therapist^TM has gone beyond basic training and has demonstrated a higher level of competence and commitment to EMDR therapy. In addition to completing basic training, am EMDR Certified Therapist^TM has:

• Conducted at least 50 EMDR sessions with at least 25 different clients
• Received an additional 20 hours of consultation with an EMDRIA approved consultant(s)
• Submitted letters of recommendation from the EMDRIA approved consultant(s) worked with and demonstrate adherence to EMDRIA’s professional and ethical guidelines
• Maintained continuing education in EMDR therapy

This certification indicates a more advanced level of training, experience, commitment, and specialization in EMDR.

Additional FAQs about becoming an EMDR Certified Therapist^TM can be found on EMDRIA’s website here.

Why It Matters
An EMDR trained therapist and an EMDR Certified Therapist^TM can provide EMDR therapy. However, certification can offer an additional layer of assurance for clients seeking a therapist with extensive EMDR experience and a strong commitment to ongoing professional development.

If you are curious to learn more about EMDR or are interested in beginning your EMDR therapy journey, please reach out to me via the Contact Me page on my website. You can also learn more about EMDR as well as additional EMDR therapists in your area by visiting the EMDR International Association’s website here.

Reminder: these blog posts are meant to be purely educational and/or entertainment tools and do NOT replace psychotherapy and/or other medically necessary treatments.