Why EMDRIA Training Matters
If you're considering EMDR therapy, you may notice that therapists use different terms to describe their training. You might see phrases such as EMDR-trained, EMDRIA-trained, or EMDRIA-approved training. While these terms sound similar, they are not interchangeable. Understanding what they mean can help you make an informed decision when choosing an EMDR therapist.
What Is EMDRA?
The EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) is the leading professional organization dedicated to establishing standards for EMDR education, clinical practice, research, and ethics. Rather than training therapists directly, EMDRIA reviews and approves training programs that meet its comprehensive educational standards.
These standards help ensure that therapists receive thorough instruction in the evidence-based EMDR protocol before providing treatment to clients.
What Does "EMDRIA-Trained" Mean?
An EMDRIA-trained therapist has completed an EMDRIA-approved basic training program that includes comprehensive instruction in the eight phases of EMDR therapy, trauma-informed care, client preparation, stabilization techniques, case conceptualization, and the neuroscience underlying trauma and memory.
Training also includes supervised practicum experiences and consultation with experienced EMDR clinicians, allowing therapists to develop competency while receiving feedback and guidance on real clinical cases.
This structured training prepares therapists to deliver EMDR according to the evidence-based model that has been extensively researched.
What Does "EMDRIA-Approved" Mean?
The term EMDRIA-approved refers to the training program itself.
When a training program is EMDRIA-approved, it has met the association's standards for curriculum, instruction, supervised practice, and consultation.
In simple terms:
EMDRIA-approved describes the training program.
EMDRIA-trained describes the therapist who successfully completed that approved program.
Why Does This Matter?
EMDR is much more than eye movements or bilateral stimulation. Effective EMDR therapy involves careful assessment, preparation, stabilization, memory processing, installation of adaptive beliefs, and ongoing reevaluation throughout treatment.
Because trauma affects every person differently, EMDR requires clinical judgment, flexibility, and a thorough understanding of the complete eight-phase protocol. Proper training helps therapists know how to prepare clients for processing, recognize when additional stabilization is needed, and tailor treatment to each individual's needs.
Following the complete EMDR protocol helps provide treatment that is safe, structured, and grounded in the research supporting this approach.
A Commitment to Continued Learning
Completing EMDR basic training is only the beginning of becoming an effective EMDR therapist.
I believe continuing education is an essential part of providing high-quality care. In addition to completing an EMDRIA-approved training program, I continue expanding my knowledge through advanced EMDR education, consultation, and specialized training, including advanced instruction with Dr. Andrew Dobo, an internationally recognized EMDR trainer. Ongoing learning allows me to continue refining my skills and remain current with advances in trauma treatment and EMDR therapy.
Questions to Ask When Choosing an EMDR Therapist
Finding the right therapist is an important part of your healing journey. Consider asking questions such as:
Was your EMDR training completed through an EMDRIA-approved program?
What additional EMDR training or consultation have you completed?
How do you prepare clients before beginning trauma processing?
Do you follow the complete eight-phase EMDR protocol?
How do you determine whether EMDR is appropriate for a particular client?
A well-trained EMDR therapist should welcome these questions and be happy to explain their training, experience, and approach to treatment. Understanding your therapist's background can help you feel more confident and informed as you begin your healing journey.