How to Get Certified in EMDR: A Step-by-Step Guide for Therapists
- Melissa Londry, LPC
- Apr 28
- 3 min read
If you’re a therapist looking to deepen your trauma work and expand your clinical skillset, pursuing certification in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) can be a powerful next step.
EMDR is one of the most researched and effective treatments for trauma and becoming certified not only strengthens your clinical confidence, but also enhances the quality of care you provide to your clients.
In this guide, we’ll walk through exactly how to become EMDR certified, what to expect along the way, and how to choose the right consultation support to help you succeed.
What Is EMDR Certification?
EMDR certification is a credential offered through EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) that demonstrates advanced training, consultation, and competency in the EMDR model.
While completing EMDR basic training allows you to begin using EMDR with clients, certification goes a step further. Certification signals that you have refined your skills, received structured consultation, and are practicing with fidelity to the model.
Step 1: Complete an EMDRIA-Approved Basic Training
Your first step is completing an EMDR basic training through an EMDRIA-approved provider.
This training is typically broken into:
Part 1 (First Weekend): Foundations of EMDR, case conceptualization, and initial phases
Part 2 (Second Weekend): Advanced skills, complex cases, and integration
Between trainings, you’ll begin applying EMDR with clients and participating in consultation.
Step 2: Begin Practicing EMDR With Clients
After your first training weekend, you can begin using EMDR in your clinical work.
This is where the real learning happens.
You’ll start to:
Identify appropriate clients for EMDR
Practice the 8-phase EMDR protocol
Navigate blocking beliefs, dissociation, and stuck processing
Build confidence in your clinical decision-making
This stage often brings both growth and uncertainty, which is why consultation is essential.
Step 3: Participate in EMDR Consultation
Consultation is one of the most important (and often most overlooked) parts of becoming EMDR certified.
To be eligible for certification through EMDRIA, you’ll need:
20 hours of consultation with an EMDRIA-approved consultant
Consultation helps you:
Strengthen fidelity to the EMDR model
Troubleshoot difficult cases
Deepen your understanding of trauma processing
Build confidence and reduce imposter syndrome
Many clinicians find that ongoing group consultation provides both structure and community during this process.
Step 4: Complete Your Clinical Requirements
To apply for EMDR certification, you’ll also need to meet the following requirements:
Active clinical license
Completion of EMDR basic training
20 hours of EMDR consultation
Experience using EMDR with multiple clients
Letters of recommendation from EMDR consultants
This ensures that certification reflects real clinical competency.
Step 5: Apply for EMDR Certification
Once you’ve completed all requirements, you’ll submit your application through EMDRIA.
After approval, you’ll officially become a Certified EMDR Therapist. Becoming a Certified EMDR Therapist is a credential that reflects advanced training and dedication to trauma-informed care.
Why EMDR Consultation Matters More Than You Think
Many clinicians underestimate how critical consultation is for truly becoming effective in EMDR.
Consultation is where you:
Move from “knowing the steps” to thinking like an EMDR therapist
Learn how to handle complex trauma and dissociation
Gain clarity when sessions don’t go as planned
Build confidence in your clinical instincts
Without strong consultation, it’s easy to feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure if you’re “doing it right.”
Finding the Right EMDR Consultant
The right consultant can make all the difference in your EMDR journey.
Look for someone who:
Provides structured, consistent consultation
Offers both case conceptualization and skill-building
Creates a supportive, non-judgmental environment
Has experience working with complex trauma
EMDR Consultation with Melissa Londry, LPC
As a Certified EMDR Therapist and EMDRIA Consultant-in-Training, I offer ongoing EMDR consultation groups via Google Meet for clinicians who:
Have completed the first weekend of EMDR basic training
Are working toward EMDR certification
Want to strengthen their skills and confidence in EMDR
These consultation groups provide:
Real case consultation
Practical application of the EMDR model
Supportive community with other clinicians
Guidance toward EMDR certification
At this time, I am not accepting new EMDR therapy clients, as I am focused on expanding my impact through consultation and training clinicians in trauma-informed care.
Ready to Get Certified and Start Your EMDR Certification Journey?
Whether you’re just beginning EMDR training or working toward certification, having the right support can make the process more clear, confident, and aligned.
Comments