How to Become EMDR Certified: What the Process Looks Like for Clinicians

If you’re feeling drawn to EMDR work, you’re not alone. Many therapists find that EMDR becomes a centerpiece of their practice, especially when working with clients navigating the long-term effects of trauma. EMDR offers a structured way to resolve difficult experiences while allowing clients to stay grounded, present, and in control.

If certification is your next step, here’s what to expect.

Start With EMDRIA-Approved Basic Training

You’ll begin with an EMDRIA-approved Basic Training program. Our partner, AATBS, offers this training online, providing the comprehensive instruction, supervised practice, and protocol-aligned guidance.. This training prepares you to begin using EMDR with clients in a clinically appropriate way.

Complete Required Consultation

After training, you’ll work with an EMDRIA-Approved Consultant™ for a minimum of 20 consultation hours. Many clinicians describe this phase as one of the most valuable parts of the journey. It’s where you refine your skills, strengthen case conceptualization, and apply EMDR more confidently.

Build Experience With Clients

Certification requires direct EMDR work with clients. Over time, you’ll complete at least 50 EMDR sessions across 25 different clients. This ensures that your skills develop through a wide range of clinical scenarios.

Submit Documentation and Recommendations 

You’ll gather:

• A letter from your EMDRIA-Approved Consultant™
• Two letters from colleagues
• Documentation of training
• Verification of EMDR sessions
• Proof of your mental health license
• Required CE certificates

Once submitted, EMDRIA will review your application and notify you when it’s approved.

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“After training, you’ll work with an EMDRIA-Approved Consultant™ for a minimum of 20 consultation hours. Many clinicians describe this phase as one of the most valuable parts of the journey. It’s where you refine your skills, strengthen case conceptualization, and apply EMDR more confidently.”

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Continuing EMDR Development

Certification is an ongoing process. EMDRIA requires continuing education to ensure clinicians maintain high standards of practice and stay up to date with current research and protocols. AATBS helps clinicians successfully incorporate EMDR into their work with clients with EMDR Basic Training.

Author

Amy Weil

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