EMDR Basic Training

The EMDR journey begins with EMDR basic training, provided by an EMDRAA Accredited Trainer, which is comprised of:

20 hours of didactic learning (Level 1 / Weekend 1); and
20 hours of facilitated practicum experience implementing the EMDR standard protocol (Level 2 / Weekend 2); and
10 hours of consultation with an EMDRAA Accredited Consultant.

Knowledge and skills increase with each level. Participants may practise EMDR after the completion of the first training module of 20 hours (Level 1). Trainees are encouraged to gain experience during basic training, but only those who have completed all 50 hours can be considered a fully trained EMDR therapist.

Therapists and clinicians commencing EMDR basic training after 1 April 2025 should complete training within two years of their Level 1 start date. Special circumstances will be considered for an extension to this, on request. Please contact [email protected].

Shorter EMDR courses provide insufficient background and practice to allow therapists to safely begin to use EMDR. Sometimes trainers may provide shorter courses to generate awareness, but these shorter introductory courses do not meet the international criteria and are not endorsed by EMDRAA, as international experience has shown they do not prepare therapists adequately to conduct EMDR therapy safely. Trainees must complete the Basic Training Program described above to become a Full Member of EMDRAA.

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Please note that only training programs listed here have undergone an assessment process and have been accredited and approved by EMDRAA as meeting international guidelines and standards for best practice in EMDR therapy. There are other providers offering EMDR courses, however these are not approved by EMDRAA. Therapists and clinicians will only be eligible to become an EMDRAA member if they have completed an EMDRAA accredited EMDR basic training program.