EMDR Certification
A Step-by-Step Guide to Getting EMDRIA Certified
by Melissa Carr, LPC, EMDR certified
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a powerful, evidence-based therapy for treating trauma and other distressing life experiences. Becoming EMDRIA (EMDR International Association) Certified is a professional milestone that signals advanced training, clinical competence, and commitment to ethical EMDR practice. If you’re considering this path, the process can feel complex at first glance. If you are looking for an EMDR therapist, look for their EMDR certification not EMDR trained.
This guide breaks down EMDRIA certification step by step, so you know exactly what to expect and how to move through the process with clarity and confidence.
Step 1: Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements
Before beginning EMDRIA Certification, you must meet foundational criteria:
Hold a master’s degree or higher in a mental health field
Be fully licensed for independent clinical practice (LPC, LCSW, LMFT, Psychologist, Psychiatrist, etc.)
Have at least two years of clinical experience post-graduation
Carry professional liability insurance
These requirements ensure that certification candidates already have a strong clinical foundation.
Step 2: Complete EMDRIA-Approved Basic Training
The first major milestone is completing an EMDRIA-approved Basic Training, which includes:
20 hours of didactic instruction
20 hours of supervised practicum
Training completed through an EMDRIA-approved training provider
Basic Training is typically completed in two parts (often called Part 1 and Part 2) and covers:
The Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model
The 8 phases of EMDR therapy
Client preparation and resourcing
Target sequencing and reprocessing
Case conceptualization
Completion of Basic Training allows you to begin practicing EMDR under consultation.
Step 3: Begin Using EMDR in Clinical Practice
After Basic Training, you must actively use EMDR therapy with clients. EMDRIA requires:
A minimum of 50 EMDR therapy sessions
At least 25 different clients
These cases should reflect a range of clinical presentations and demonstrate your growing competency with the EMDR protocol.
Step 4: Obtain EMDR Consultation
Consultation is a core component of EMDRIA Certification and supports ethical, effective practice.
You must complete:
20 hours of consultation
With an EMDRIA Approved Consultant
At least 10 of these hours must be individual consultation
During consultation, you will:
Review EMDR cases
Receive feedback on protocol adherence
Deepen case conceptualization skills
Address blocks, dissociation, and complex trauma presentations
Consultation often occurs over months or even years and is a critical professional growth experience.
Step 5: Complete Additional EMDRIA-Approved Continuing Education
To qualify for certification, you must complete:
12 hours of EMDRIA-approved continuing education beyond Basic Training
These trainings allow you to deepen skills in areas such as:
Complex trauma
Dissociation
Attachment-focused EMDR
First responders
Medical trauma
EMDR with children or couples
Step 6: Obtain Letters of Recommendation
EMDRIA requires two letters of recommendation:
One from an EMDRIA Approved Consultant who has provided your consultation
One from a licensed mental health professional familiar with your clinical work
These letters should speak to your ethical practice, EMDR competency, and professional integrity.
Step 7: Sign the EMDRIA Code of Ethics
Certification requires agreement to adhere to:
The EMDRIA Code of Ethics
Ongoing ethical EMDR practice
Scope of competence standards
This reinforces EMDRIA’s emphasis on client safety and fidelity to the model.
Step 8: Submit Your EMDRIA Certification Application
Once all requirements are complete, you will:
Submit the EMDRIA Certification Application
Upload documentation of training, consultation, and CE credits
Pay the certification application fee
Applications are reviewed by EMDRIA, and additional information may be requested.
Step 9: Receive EMDRIA Certification YOU DID IT!!
After approval, you may officially use the credential:
EMDRIA Certified Therapist™
Certification must be renewed every two years, which includes:
Continuing education
Adherence to ethical standards
Maintaining licensure
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