All Things EMDR
What is EMDR Therapy?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based psychotherapy that helps people process distressing experiences so they feel less overwhelming over time. EMDR is commonly used to treat trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, and other emotional or behavioral concerns.
When difficult experiences occur, the brain may store memories in a way that keeps them emotionally charged. EMDR therapy helps the brain reprocess those memories so they become less distressing and more manageable.
EMDR therapy may be helpful for:
- Trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress
- Anxiety and panic
- Depression
- Grief and loss
- Childhood trauma and attachment wounds
- Behavioral or emotional challenges in children
- Stressful or overwhelming life experiences
EMDR is a structured therapy that follows a standardized treatment model and emphasizes safety, preparation, and emotional regulation skills before trauma processing begins.
EMDR Therapy for Children and Adolescents
EMDR can be adapted to meet the developmental needs of children and teens. Therapists use age-appropriate strategies such as play, drawing, storytelling, or movement to help young clients process difficult experiences.
For children, EMDR may help with:
- Anxiety or fears
- School-related stress
- Behavioral challenges
- Medical or developmental trauma
- Family changes (divorce, relocation, loss)
- Emotional regulation difficulties
Parents or caregivers are often involved in treatment planning and support, and therapy proceeds at a pace that prioritizes the child’s safety and readiness.
Why Training and Credentials Matter in EMDR
EMDR is a specialized therapy that requires formal training, consultation, and clinical experience to practice safely and effectively. The EMDR International Association sets professional standards for EMDR training and credentialing in the United States.
Therapists may be at different stages in their professional development. Each level represents additional training, supervision, and clinical experience using the EMDR model.
All EMDRIA-trained therapists use the same foundational treatment approach and follow professional and ethical standards.
EMDR Therapist Training and Credential Levels
EMDR Trained Therapist
An EMDR Trained Therapist has completed an EMDRIA-approved basic training program and is qualified to provide EMDR therapy.
This training typically includes:
- Approximately 50+ hours of education and practicum
- Supervised consultation with an EMDR consultant
- Instruction in the full eight-phase EMDR therapy model
- Training in assessment, preparation, and safe implementation of EMDR
These therapists are actively building clinical experience using EMDR in practice.
EMDR Certified Therapist
An EMDR Certified Therapist has completed additional requirements demonstrating advanced experience and competency in EMDR therapy.
Requirements generally include:
- Completion of EMDRIA-approved basic training
- At least two years of clinical experience
- A minimum number of EMDR therapy sessions with clients
- 20 hours of consultation with an approved EMDR consultant
- Continuing education specific to EMDR
Certification reflects a higher level of clinical experience and professional development in the EMDR model.
EMDR Consultant-in-Training
A Consultant-in-Training is a therapist who has completed the initial requirements to begin providing consultation under supervision from an approved EMDR Consultant.
This role indicates:
- Advanced EMDR training and experience
- Ongoing supervision in consultation skills
- Progress toward full Consultant status
EMDR Consultant
An EMDR Consultant is an experienced EMDR clinician who provides consultation to other therapists working toward certification or advanced competency.
Consultants typically:
- Hold EMDR Certification
- Have extensive experience using EMDR therapy
- Complete additional training in consultation and supervision
- Provide guidance and clinical support to other therapists
Consultants help ensure that EMDR is practiced safely and according to professional standards.
EMDR Facilitator
An EMDR Facilitator assists with EMDR training programs approved by the EMDR International Association.
Facilitators:
- Support participants during EMDR training
- Provide guidance during practicum exercises
- Help ensure adherence to training standards
- Work under the direction of an approved Trainer
Facilitator status reflects strong clinical knowledge of EMDR and involvement in professional education.
EMDR Trainer
An EMDR Trainer is a highly experienced clinician approved by the EMDR International Association to teach official EMDR training programs.
Trainers typically:
- Have extensive clinical and teaching experience
- Demonstrate advanced expertise in the EMDR model
- Meet rigorous professional and educational requirements
- Provide formal EMDR training to mental health professionals
This represents one of the highest levels of professional involvement in EMDR education.
How to Know Your Therapist’s Training Level
You have the right to ask your therapist about their training and experience. Therapists should be transparent about their credentials and level of training in EMDR.
If you have questions, we encourage you to discuss them with your provider.
Important Information About EMDR Services in Our Practice
Our therapists may be at different stages of training and professional development in EMDR therapy. Each therapist practices within their scope of competence and according to professional, ethical, and licensing standards.
EMDR therapy is not appropriate for every individual or situation. Your therapist will work with you to determine whether EMDR is a suitable treatment approach. Services are provided based on clinical appropriateness, training, and client needs.