There are a number of individual and organizational EMDRIA Approved EMDR Training Providers offering different format options, such as University and Commercial trainings.

EMDR Training offered in a University setting usually takes place over an entire (12 week) semester, while trainings offered in a Commercial setting may take place over a 2 weekend period, several weeks or may even be specially tailored around a trainees’ or agency’s work schedule. Training prices, times, locations, formats, and overall length will vary depending on the training site.

An EMDRIA Approved EMDR Training provides clinicians with the knowledge and skills to utilize EMDR therapy, a comprehensive understanding of case conceptualization and treatment planning, and the ability to integrate EMDR therapy into their clinical practice. An EMDRIA Approved EMDR Training provides, at a minimum, instruction in the current explanatory model, methodology, and underlying mechanisms of EMDR through lecture, practice, and integrated consultation.

While the EMDRIA Approved EMDR Training Curriculum outlines the minimum requirements which need to be met, the developer of a specific curriculum can enhance or expand any portion as they see fit. These minimum training requirements include: 20 hours instructional material, 20 hours supervised practicum, and 10 hours consultation.

Instructional (20 Hours)

The goal of the instructional section of the training is to provide information and understanding in each of the following areas:

  • History and Overview – The goal of this section is to review the historical evolution of EMDR therapy from its inception through validation by randomized controlled studies. This includes, but is not limited to: A) Origin; B) Switch from EMD to EMDR; C) Current EMDR-related Research
  • Distinguish Model, Methodology, and Mechanism – This section of the curriculum explains these three aspects of EMDR therapy and distinguishes among them.

A) Model – Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) including basic hypotheses concepts of AIP, clinical implications, differentiation from other models, and applications.

B) Methodology explains and teaches the method of EMDR.

1) 8-Phases

Phase 1 – History Taking, Case Conceptualization & Treatment Planning
Phase 2 – Client Preparation
Phase 3 – Assessment
Phase 4 – Desensitization
Phase 5 – Installation
Phase 6 – Body Scan
Phase 7 – Closure
Phase 8 – Reevaluation

2) Advanced Methodology – This includes special protocols and specific populations
3) Professional, legal, ethical issues

C) Mechanism of Action underlying EMDR

Supervised Practicum (20 Hours):

The goal of supervised practicum is to facilitate the demonstration and practice of EMDR. To achieve the goals of the supervised practicum, practice may be done in dyads or triads. It is imperative that trainees receive direct behavioral observation and feedback. Whenever appropriate, trainees practice with real life experiences. Ample practice is recommended before introducing/teaching the Cognitive Interweave. Practice should be included for each phase of the procedure as outlined in the instructional section.

Consultation (10 Hours):

Consultation provides an opportunity for the integration of the theory of EMDR along with the development of EMDR therapy skills. During consultation trainees receive individualized feedback and instruction in the areas of case conceptualization, client readiness, target selection, treatment planning, specific application of skills, and the integration of EMDR therapy into clinical practice. Consultation is about real cases and not experiences that occur in practicum.

Consultation increases the use of EMDR therapy by those who have received training, reduces the formation of bad habits and the risks of problematic use of EMDR. It also allows the clinician to develop and integrate EMDR therapy skills creatively into their other skills in a way that enhances clinical efficiency and effectiveness in helping a wider range of clients meet their goals for change.