Everything You Need to Know about EMDR Training

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a powerful psychotherapeutic practice that has been extensively researched and proven effective for treating many issues. Initially developed for those experiencing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), it has since been proven to also help with various anxiety disorders, depression, grief and loss, phobias, eating disorders, and other trauma-related conditions due to its non-invasive and client-centered approach. Whatever the disturbing and difficult memory may be, EMDR helps “unstick” those memories and their distressing symptoms from the brain in a healthier, more sustainable way.

As therapists are increasingly seeking EMDR certification for trauma-informed care, we want to equip you to confidently integrate EMDR into your practice and help clients achieve lasting healing! This guide will help you understand what EMDR Training and Certification involves, the cost and process to become EMDR certified, and why EMDR training is worth the investment.

What is EMDR Training?

EMDR is uniquely effective because of the way it engages the brain’s natural healing system to empower clients to heal their symptoms instead of just learning to cope with them. How does this work? Using “bilateral stimulation” through the use of guided eye movements, holding tappers, and even audio sounds, EMDR stimulates the mind to bring up memories, thoughts, and feelings that may otherwise be inaccessible. 

Therapists walking patients through an EMDR session use a structured, eight-phase treatment model. These phases include gathering a comprehensive history of the client, preparing them on what to expect, identifying the target memories, and using the eye movement techniques to recall and reprocess the memory. The second half of the eight phases involves installing positive beliefs to replace the original ones and achieve closure. EMDR training equips therapists to not only perform these processes with clients but also understand adaptive information processing (AIP), recognize trauma responses, and maintain client safety throughout the experience. 

How Long and How Much is EMDR Training?

EMDR Basic Training includes 40 hours of combined instruction, hands-on practice, live demonstration, and an additional 10 hours of supervised consultations. While basic training usually involves 5-6 days of learning, Coast to Coast offers both 5-day settings and 2 weekend settings that include either online or in-person learning in Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale, and Spokane. Additionally, there are Live Webinars available to make training accessible anywhere!

Depending on the program, basic training can cost between $1,300 to $2,500. Programs will vary in cost based on whether they’re in person or online, providing consultations individually or in groups, and charging extra for the consultations or not. At Coast to Coast, we offer you an EMDRIA-approved comprehensive program with 10 hours of EMDRIA-required group consultation included at no extra cost and 1 year access to the learning platform with all its resources for a total of $1,595. 

How Do You Become EMDR Certified?

EMDR Basic training is the first step towards certification! It’s one of the first requirements needed to begin the certification process through the EMDR International Association (EMDRIA). While basic training allows you to use EMDR, certification requires logging experience and extra consultation hours to show your skill. 

Basic Training Time Commitment:

 - 40 hours of basic training instruction in an EMDRIA-approved course.
 - 10 hours of consultation within 12 months of starting the course.

EMDR Certification Time Commitment:

 - 50 EMDR therapy sessions with at least 25 clients.
 - 20 hours of consultation with an EMDR-approved consultant.
 - 12 extra hours of EMDRIA credits awarded for workshops after basic training is done.
 - Applying for the EMDR certification through EMDRIA and submitting other letters of recommendation and proof of practice.

At Coast to Coast, we not only offer you the perfect first step with our Basic Training program, but we also offer Advanced Training and the chance to complete all your consultation hours if you are on the journey towards completing your EMDR certification requirements! 

Do EMDR Therapists Make More Money?

Perhaps you’re still wondering if being trained in EMDR will be worth the monetary investment. The answer is yes. Being EMDR certified provides a higher level of expertise in complex trauma, which increases a therapist’s earning potential! Look at these benefits:

 - Both private practices and clinical settings are seeking to hire EMDR certified therapists for their advanced credentials and ability to handle more trauma-focused cases. 
 - EMDR expertise allows you to increase your earning potential by 10-30%.
 - Insurance companies are more likely to offer greater reimbursement rates for EMDR certified professionals. 
 - Your client base will significantly expand with the increasing demand for therapists with specialized roles.
 - Having EMDR experience can lead to additional sources of income through opportunities to speak at workshops, training sessions, and other settings.

Are EMDR Training and Certification Worth It? 

While EMDR training opens the door to increased income and professional opportunities, the greatest benefit is gaining a powerful tool to help more people achieve profound and lasting healing. If you’re looking to make an impact in your clients' lives, especially as it relates to facing trauma and unprocessed negative memories, then pursuing EMDR training and certification is worth it. 

Check out what Coast to Coast clients are saying:

“After my EMDR Intensive with Holly, I keep thinking, 'Why did I not do this earlier?’ Beginning with childhood and ending with my current feelings of insecurity, the EMDR Intensive healed me in ways I could never have imagined. The sense of relief I felt after the weekend is indescribable; it was as though the emotional weight I have had for years was lifted from me." – Private Client

“I thoroughly enjoy learning how to incorporate art into the EMDR protocol. This training with Tessa has been pivotal in my ability to connect with clients and provide an interactive environment when completing trauma timelines and resourcing protocols. My clients have been more engaged and have left sessions stating they feel less activated when they are able to engage in EMDR material using expressive arts." Carson Oliver, LMHC

Find an EMDR Training Online or Near You

There’s a next step for you with Coast to Coast! Whether you’re looking to experience EMDR therapy, you’re just starting your EMDR training journey, or you’re seeking additional EMDR material, we have something for you!