Frequently Asked Questions

  • EMDR Basic Training is the foundational training required to practice EMDR therapy with clients. It is designed to teach clinicians how to safely and effectively apply the EMDR standard protocol. This includes the eight phases of EMDR therapy using the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model. Completion of Basic Training qualifies clinicians to begin using EMDR therapy in their clinical work under their professional license. When completed clinicians will be able to call themselves “EMDR Trained”.

    EMDR Education Center’s Basic Training curriculum is based on Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy, Third Edition: Basic Principles, Protocols, and Procedures by Francine Shapiro, PhD.
    All didactic, practicum, and consultation components maintain fidelity to the standard EMDR therapy model and protocol as required by EMDRIA.

  • Yes. EMDR Education Center’s EMDR Basic Training is approved by the EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) and meets all current EMDRIA standards and requirements for Basic Training. Upon completion of all required components, participants receive a Certificate of Completion that satisfies EMDRIA’s requirements for being EMDR Trained.

  • This training is open to licensed mental health professionals and graduate-level interns or associates who are actively pursuing licensure under clinical supervision. Eligible participants typically include psychologists, counselors, marriage and family therapists, social workers, and other licensed clinicians providing psychotherapy.

    ‍ If you are unsure about your eligibility, please check out EMDRIA’s requirements: https://www.emdria.org/emdr-training/eligibility-requirements-for-emdr-training/  or contact us at admin@emdr-ed.com before registering.

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  • EMDR Basic Training consists of 50 total hours, which include:

    20 hours of didactic instruction (lecture and discussion)

    20 hours of supervised practicum (live practice)

    10 hours of consultation

    These components are integrated into one comprehensive course and must all be completed to receive a Certificate of Completion. Our training includes all components.

  • By the end of the complete EMDR Basic Training, participants will be able to:

    Understand the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model and related neurobiological foundations of EMDR therapy.

    Evaluate client readiness and appropriateness for EMDR therapy.

    Integrate EMDR therapy into comprehensive treatment planning.

    Apply the eight phases of EMDR therapy with fidelity and skill.

    Adapt EMDR therapy for clients with complex trauma and co-occurring conditions.

  • After successfully completing all 50 hours (lecture, practicum, and consultation), participants receive an EMDRIA-approved Certificate of Completion, which allows them to begin using EMDR therapy in clinical practice and call themselves “EMDR Trained”.

    Clinicians may then choose to pursue EMDRIA Certification by completing additional consultation hours and practice requirements. EMDR Education Center offers advanced consultation and certification groups for those interested in continued professional development related to EMDR Therapy.

  • Per EMDRIA’s policy, all components of EMDR Basic Training must be completed within one calendar year from the participant’s initial training start date.

    Participants who do not complete all required lecture, practicum, and consultation hours within one year will need to repeat missed components to obtain a Certificate of Completion. Extensions beyond one year are not permitted under EMDRIA’s policies except under extreme circumstances.

Registration and Cost

  • Your registration fee covers the entire 50-hour EMDR Basic Training, including all required components:

    20 hours of didactic instruction

    20 hours of supervised practicum

    10 hours of group consultation

    All materials, consultation hours, and training components are included in a single comprehensive registration cost. There are no additional fees when consultation hours are completed within your assigned cohort.

  • All consultation hours and required training components are included in your registration fee.

    The only additional expense is the purchase of the required course text — Shapiro, F. (2018). Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy: Basic Principles, Protocols, and Procedures (3rd ed.). New York: Guilford Press. Participants are responsible for obtaining this text prior to the start of training.

    The only other potential cost would apply if a participant misses their scheduled consultation sessions and must complete makeup hours outside their assigned cohort, which will incur an extra fee payable directly to the consultant.

  • Payment is due at the time of registration.

    Many EMDR Education Center trainings are hosted in collaboration with partner organizations or agencies, and in those cases, registration and payment are completed directly through the hosting organization’s website. Links to the correct registration page for each specific training cohort will be clearly provided on the EMDR Education Center website.

    For trainings hosted directly by EMDR Education Center, payment is made securely at the time of registration through our online system.

    If your agency is paying on your behalf or if you have questions about payment logistics, please contact us at: admin@emdr-ed.com prior to registration.

  • Yes. Payment plans may be available for some training cohorts. Please contact admin@emdr-ed.com prior to registration to inquire about eligibility or to request a payment arrangement.

  • Refund and cancellation policies may vary slightly depending on the hosting partner and location of the training.
    In general:

    Full refunds are available for cancellations made 30 or more days prior to the first training date.

    Partial refunds may be available for cancellations within 30 days of the start date.

    No refunds are issued once the training has begun.

    All refund and cancellation policies are clearly stated during registration and must be agreed to prior to payment.

  • In general, discounts are available for groups, students, associates, and individuals employed by nonprofit organizations.

    Availability and discount amounts vary depending on the hosting organization or partner site. For trainings hosted directly by EMDR Education Center, limited discounts may be offered for registering multiple participants within the same cohort, as well as for students, associates, or nonprofit professionals.

    For trainings hosted through partner organizations, any available discounts are managed directly by the hosting site and will be listed on that organization’s registration or promotional materials.

    If you are interested in exploring group or individual discount eligibility, please contact admin@emdr-ed.com prior to registration for details specific to that training.

Training Format and Schedule

  • EMDR Education Center offers both virtual and in-person training options, depending on the cohort and hosting organization. Each training listing clearly indicates whether it will be conducted live online or in person.

    All virtual trainings are conducted live via Zoom—they are not prerecorded or self-paced. Participants are expected to attend with their cameras on and fully engage throughout each session to receive credit.

  • EMDR Basic Training is a comprehensive 50-hour course consisting of:

    20 hours of lecture and discussion (didactic instruction)

    20 hours of supervised practicum (live practice in dyads and triads)

    10 hours of group consultation -scheduled outside of the in class training time

    The didactic and practicum portions are delivered through six full-day sessions, typically spaced into two separate meetings of three consecutive days , followed by the consultation hours scheduled separately. All components must be completed to receive a Certificate of Completion and be “EMDR Trained”.

  • Each training day is structured to balance learning and hands-on practice.

    The morning sessions typically focus on didactic instruction, including lecture content, video demonstrations, live demonstrations, and group discussions.

    After a break for lunch, the afternoon sessions are dedicated to supervised practicum, where participants practice EMDR therapy in small groups (dyads or triads) and receive real-time feedback from the consultants/trainers.

    Training days run approximately 8.5 hours, including breaks, and are designed to integrate theory, observation, and experiential learning throughout each day.

    If a training will be structured differently, it will be clearly indicated and outlined prior to allowing for registration.

  • Yes. For virtual cohorts, participants must have:

    A reliable internet connection

    A computer or laptop with a camera and microphone (phones or tablets are not sufficient)

    Be able to print or access course materials for use simultaneously while being on and seeing the video platform (specifically for the practicum)

    A private, confidential space for participation

    Participants must be visible on camera during all training and practicum exercises to meet EMDRIA attendance requirements. Headphones are strongly recommended for confidentiality and sound quality.

    It is highly recommended that participants choosing the virtual training option are comfortable navigating digital learning platforms and technology. Zoom is not the only platform used during virtual training—participants will also need to navigate course materials, links, and assignments through online systems such as Canvas or shared resources.
    Individuals who are unfamiliar or uncomfortable with virtual technology may find the in-person format a better fit.

  • All upcoming training dates are listed on the EMDR Education Center website and in promotional materials from partner organizations. Each cohort’s registration page provides specific details about session dates, times, format (virtual or in-person), and consultation schedule.

  • Transfer options depend on space availability and the hosting organization’s policy. If you need to request a transfer, contact admin@emdr-ed.com as early as possible.

    Transfers outside your cohort may result in additional administrative or consultant fees if rescheduling affects your consultation schedule.

Technology and Materials

  • Participants attending virtual cohorts will need:

    • A reliable internet connection

    • A computer or laptop with a working camera and microphone (phones or tablets are not sufficient)

    • Headphones or earbuds for confidentiality and sound quality

    • A private, quiet space free from interruptions during training and practicum

    Participants must be visible on camera throughout all lecture and practicum components to meet EMDRIA’s live attendance requirements.

    It is highly recommended that participants choosing the virtual format are comfortable with digital learning environments. Zoom is not the only platform used during training—participants will also navigate course materials, Canvas modules, and online links. Those unfamiliar with technology may find the in-person format to be a better fit.

  • All course materials, handouts, and worksheets will be provided electronically through the Canvas learning platform. Participants should review materials prior to training and keep them accessible for reference during lectures and practicum exercises.

    Participants will also need the required text:
    Shapiro, F. (2018). Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy: Basic Principles, Protocols, and Procedures (3rd ed.). New York: Guilford Press.

    This text must be purchased separately and should be obtained before the first training day as their are reading assignments prior to the start of the training.

  • Registered participants receive access to the Canvas course no later than two weeks before the training start date. Access information and login instructions are emailed to the address used during registration.

    Canvas serves as the central hub for all training-related content, forms, and announcements.

  • For both virtual and in-person formats, participants should have:

    • A pen or digital device for notes

    • Printed or digital copies of practicum forms (available in Canvas)

    • Comfort items such as tissues, water, or grounding tools for use as needed during practicum

    Virtual participants need to have a private, quiet, comfortable workspace with adequate lighting, and free from background distractions.

    Distractions impede and impact the learning environment for all participants.

  • If you experience technical issues before or during training, please contact admin@emdr-ed.com as soon as possible. The team will assist you in troubleshooting or reconnecting to the session. Missing significant training time due to technical difficulties may require makeup hours, so advance preparation and testing your setup before the first session are highly encouraged.

  • Even if you have prior exposure to EMDR therapy, participation in all lecture, practicum, and consultation components is required to meet EMDRIA’s standards for Basic Training. This is an EMDRIA requirement without exception.

    Full participation ensures that all trainees are learning and applying the same model, protocols, and procedures as outlined in EMDRIA’s current definition of EMDR therapy. Many participants with prior EMDR training or informal experience find that re-engaging in supervised practice deepens both their technical understanding and their clinical effectiveness.

Practicum and Participation Expectations

  • Practicum provides the opportunity to practice and experience the eight phases of EMDR therapy in a structured and supportive environment. Participants rotate through the roles of therapist, client, and observer, allowing for both skill development and personal insight into the EMDR process.

    Unlike traditional “role plays,” practicum sessions involve real EMDR therapy — participants engage in authentic bilateral stimulation and processing using their own real-life, though appropriately chosen, experiences. This allows participants to fully understand the power and flow of EMDR therapy from both perspectives.

    During practicum, participants work in small groups (dyads or triads) under the supervision of a member of the training team who offers guidance, feedback, and support throughout the exercises.

  • Yes. EMDR Basic Training requires participants to experience both the therapist and client roles to fully understand and embody the EMDR therapy process.

    In the client role, participants select mildly distressing personal experiences that are appropriate for practice. These experiences are used for genuine EMDR processing—not hypothetical role play—so that participants can develop an authentic understanding of the EMDR method and its effects.

    Trainers and facilitators will guide participants in choosing suitable topics and provide structure and support to ensure safety and containment. If a participant has a contraindicated current diagnosis/diagnoses, or other clinical or personal factor/s that may make participation in the client role not appropriate at this time, they would speak with the trainer in advance or during the training. Together, appropriate modifications or alternative participation options can be made to ensure a safe and supportive learning experience for everyone.

    This approach honors each participant’s readiness while maintaining the integrity of EMDRIA’s experiential training standards.

  • It’s not uncommon to experience strong emotions during practicum, as participants are engaging in real EMDR therapy. These moments provide valuable opportunities to practice the same tools that are essential when working with clients.

    Throughout training, we emphasize emotional safety, pacing, and self-awareness—the same principles used in EMDR therapy sessions during clinical practice. As with a client in therapy, there is always autonomy and choice in participation.

    Trainers and facilitators are available throughout the process to provide support and guidance. Experiencing this process firsthand deepens the understanding of both the clinical and relational aspects of EMDR therapy.

    It is rare for a participant to be unable to continue, and when/if that occurs, trainers and facilitators are available to provide containment, debriefing, and appropriate support. Most participants find that working through these experiences strengthens both their confidence and empathy as EMDR clinicians.

  • Active participation in practicum is a required component of EMDR Basic Training as set by EMDRIA.
    If you have concerns about participation due to personal history, current stressors, or other factors, please contact admin@emdr-ed.com before the start of training to discuss options.

  • Yes. Practicum groups are considered confidential learning environments. All participants are expected to maintain professional confidentiality regarding any personal or client-related information shared during exercises. Mutual respect, professionalism, and emotional safety are foundational to the training process. Every participant, as part of registration, is required to sign a participant agreement and this is one element of that agreement.

  • Even if you have prior exposure to EMDR therapy, participation in all lecture, practicum, and consultation components is required to meet EMDRIA’s standards for Basic Training. This is an EMDRIA requirement without exception.

    Full participation ensures that all trainees are learning and applying the same model, protocols, and procedures as outlined in EMDRIA’s current definition of EMDR therapy. Many participants with prior EMDR training or informal experience find that re-engaging in supervised practice deepens both their technical understanding and their clinical effectiveness.

  • Participants receive ongoing feedback and support throughout the EMDR Basic Training process. During practicum sessions, facilitators observe participants’ practice of EMDR therapy and provide real-time guidance, feedback, and skill coaching to strengthen understanding and adherence to EMDR protocols.

    During consultation, participants receive individualized feedback from their assigned consultant on clinical case conceptualization, target selection, client readiness, and overall application of EMDR therapy. This ensures that each trainee develops both confidence and competence in applying EMDR with clients.

    Feedback is provided verbally and experientially during training and consultation rather than through formal written evaluations. This interactive model supports immediate skill development and fosters collaborative learning.

Consultation

  • Consultation is an essential part of EMDR Basic Training and is required by EMDRIA to help participants integrate EMDR therapy into their clinical work. During consultation, participants discuss real or hypothetical cases, receive feedback on case conceptualization and treatment planning, and refine their use of the EMDR standard protocol.

    Consultation supports the transition from learning the method to applying it safely and effectively in clinical practice.

    Consultation is NOT clinical supervision.

  • EMDRIA requires 10 total hours of consultation to complete Basic Training. These hours are included as part of our 50-hour EMDR Basic Training and are built into the program at no additional cost.

  • Consultation groups are pre-scheduled and paired with each training cohort.
    After registering, participants receive the schedule options for their cohort. Participants will select one consultant and remain with that consultant for all 10 hours of consultation. This consistency helps ensure individualized feedback and continuity throughout the consultation process.

    Consultation dates and times are pre-scheduled by EMDR Education Center to align with the training timeline. Participants cannot create or independently schedule new consultation sessions.

  • Yes. All 10 required consultation hours are included in your registration fee—there are no additional costs for consultation when the sessions are completed within your assigned cohort.

  • If you miss a consultation session, please notify your consultant and admin@emdr-ed.com as soon as possible. We will work to provide a makeup option within your cohort’s consultation schedule.

    If makeup opportunities are not available within your assigned cohort’s provided consultation, you will need to arrange consultation at a different time, which will incur an additional fee, paid directly to the consultant.

    For our trainings, we do require that consultation is completed with our training’s consultants to ensure the quality of consultation adheres to our standards.

  • Each consultation group is limited to no more than 10 participants, in accordance with EMDRIA standards. This small-group format allows for personalized feedback, case discussion, and greater participation for each trainee.

  • Yes. Before each consultation session, participants complete a Case Consultation Form to guide discussion. This form helps focus consultation time on case conceptualization, treatment planning, and application of EMDR skills.

  • Consultation bridges the gap between learning and real-world application. It provides space to ask questions, build confidence, and refine your EMDR skills with professional feedback. By the end of consultation, participants feel more prepared to integrate EMDR therapy into their practice safely, ethically, and effectively.

Certificates and CEs

  • Once all 50 hours of training are complete—including lecture, practicum, and the required 10 hours of consultation—participants will receive access to complete and download their Certificate of Completion through the Canvas course.

    After submitting the Consultation Hours Tracking Form and confirming completion of all requirements, the Canvas system will unlock access to the certificate. Participants may then fill in their information and download their certificate directly.

  • Certificates are only issued after all components of EMDR Basic Training are complete. Participants who have not completed their consultation hours or have missed required training time will not receive a certificate until those hours are fulfilled.

    All training components must be completed within one calendar year of the initial training start date, in accordance with EMDRIA policy. If you do not complete the requirements within this timeframe, you may need to repeat missed portions of training before a certificate can be awarded.

  • Yes. Continuing Education (CE) credits are included with EMDR Education Center’s EMDR Basic Training.

    The exact number of CE hours and accrediting body information may vary slightly depending on the cohort or hosting organization. These details will be clearly listed in the registration information for each specific training.

    Participants will receive instructions within the Canvas course on how to access and claim their CE certificate once all training requirements are met.

  • Yes. Participants are required to submit the Consultation Hours Tracking Form provided in Canvas once all 10 consultation hours are complete. The form must include the participant’s name, consultant’s name, consultation dates, and signature.

    After this form is submitted, the certificate access will automatically unlock in Canvas for download.

  • Yes. Replacement or duplicate certificates can be requested by emailing admin@emdr-ed.com. A small administrative fee may apply for reissuance. Please include your full name, training cohort, and approximate completion date when making your request.

Continuing Consultation and Certification

  • Completion of EMDR Basic Training allows you to call yourself “EMDR Trained” and to begin using EMDR therapy in your clinical practice within the scope of your professional license.

    Many clinicians choose to continue with additional consultation and take specialized or advanced trainings.

  • EMDRIA Certification is an advanced professional credential that recognizes a clinician’s demonstrated competence in EMDR therapy. To become an EMDRIA Certified Therapist, you must:

    • Hold an active mental health license or certification

    • Complete an EMDRIA-approved Basic Training

    • Receive at least 20 additional hours of consultation from an EMDRIA-Approved Consultant after completing Basic Training

    • Provide documentation of at least 50 EMDR therapy sessions with at least 25 different clients

    • Submit an application to EMDRIA for review and approval

    Additional details are available on the EMDRIA website at www.emdria.org.

  • Yes. EMDR Education Center offers ongoing consultation groups and individual consultation hours for clinicians pursuing EMDRIA Certification. These sessions are led by EMDRIA-Approved Consultants and meet EMDRIA’s standards for advanced consultation.

    Participants who complete Basic Training with EMDR Education Center receive priority access to post-training consultation groups and may be eligible for discounted rates.

  • Information about ongoing consultation opportunities and upcoming consultation options can be viewed on the EMDR Education Center website or by contacting admin@emdr-ed.com.

Policies and Ethical Standards

  • All participants are expected to uphold the highest standards of professional conduct and align with the ethical codes of their respective licensing boards. EMDR Education Center adheres to EMDRIA’s requirements that all trainees practice EMDR therapy within the scope of their professional license, training, and competence.

    Participants are required to maintain a respectful, collaborative, and non-disruptive learning environment. Trainers reserve the right to remove any participant whose behavior compromises the safety or integrity of the group.

  • Confidentiality is essential to creating a safe and professional learning environment.
    All participants must:

    • Maintain confidentiality about any personal or client-related material discussed during training or consultation.

    • Refrain from recording, photographing, or sharing any part of the training, practicum, or consultation sessions.

    • Avoid discussing identifying client information during consultation; when case material is shared, it should be de-identified and used only for educational purposes.

    Violation of confidentiality or recording policies may result in immediate dismissal from the program without refund.

  • Because EMDR Basic Training involves real EMDR reprocessing and work on mildly distressing material, it is normal for participants to experience emotional reactions. Participants are expected to demonstrate emotional readiness and self-regulation skills before attending.

    Trainers emphasize the use of grounding and regulation strategies throughout the training, both for self-care and as a model for clinical application. If you have a current diagnosis or condition that may impact participation, please notify the training team in advance so that reasonable accommodations can be made.

    Participants are responsible for their emotional well-being and may seek outside professional support if needed.

  • Participants experiencing significant medical or psychiatric conditions are advised to consult with their healthcare provider before registering. Those with conditions such as acute PTSD, dissociative disorders, heart conditions, high-risk pregnancies, or other major health concerns may need medical clearance before participating in practicum exercises.

    Failure to disclose relevant conditions that later impact participation does not qualify for a refund.

  • Full attendance and participation are required to receive credit for EMDR Basic Training.
    Participants must attend all lecture, practicum, and consultation sessions in their entirety. Missing more than 15 minutes of a training day will disqualify that segment from CE credit and certificate eligibility.

    If an absence occurs, makeup sessions must be completed within one calendar year of the training start date. Participants who cannot meet this timeline may need to re-register for a future cohort.

  • Yes. EMDR Education Center reserves the right to dismiss any participant who engages in disruptive, unethical, or unsafe behavior; fails to maintain confidentiality; or does not comply with participation requirements. Dismissal results in loss of access to training materials and no refund will be issued.

    These policies are in place to ensure a safe, ethical, and respectful learning environment for all participants.

Accessibility, Accommodations, and Contact Information

  • Yes. EMDR Education Center is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible training experience for all participants. We comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and make every reasonable effort to accommodate participants with disabilities or special needs.

  • Participants who require accommodations are encouraged to contact the administrative team at least two weeks before the start of training to allow time for coordination. Requests can be submitted by emailing admin@emdr-ed.com.

    Please include your name, training cohort, and a brief description of the accommodation or support needed. All accommodation requests are reviewed confidentially, and documentation may be requested to ensure that appropriate measures can be implemented.

  • Yes. The virtual format is compatible with most accessibility tools and adaptive technologies, including screen readers and closed captioning options through Zoom. If you require additional accessibility support for the online format, please reach out in advance so we can ensure your training experience is fully supported.

  • For any questions about registration, consultation scheduling, technical issues, or training logistics, please contact the EMDR Education Center administrative team at admin@emdr-ed.com.

    Trainers and support staff are also available during training sessions to address participant needs, technology concerns, or emotional support questions.

  • EMDR Education Center takes participant concerns seriously. If you experience an issue during training, please notify the trainer or facilitator directly when possible. If the concern cannot be resolved immediately, you may submit a written statement to admin@emdr-ed.com.

    All complaints are reviewed by the administrative team in accordance with EMDRIA guidelines, and handled respectfully and confidentially.