EMDR counseling is a remarkable tool being utilized by therapists to treat a growing number of different psychological conditions. Mental health professionals, psychologists, and clinical therapists are all embracing the many benefits of EMDR treatment.
As such, the popularity of EMDR counseling comes with a common question often debated among professionals working in the mental health field – Does an EMDR therapist need to undergo the full process of certification or are basic EMDR training sessions all that is needed?
This article will provide an in-depth look at the objectives of EMDR training along with the differences between Trained-EMDR therapists and Certified-EMDR therapists. For more general information about Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, read “EMDR Explained“.
Understanding EMDR Training
EMDR training is a comprehensive program designed to equip mental health clinicians with the essential skills and knowledge to practice EMDR therapy effectively. This training encompasses a variety of learning methods, including lectures, demonstrations, videos, mentoring, and hands-on practice. Typically completed over a period of six months, the training ensures that clinicians are well-prepared to use EMDR therapy in their practice.
The EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) sets the standards for EMDR training, ensuring that only EMDRIA-approved programs meet the necessary criteria. These standards are crucial for maintaining the quality and effectiveness of EMDR therapy. Upon completing the training, clinicians receive an EMDR Training Certificate of Completion, which is a prerequisite for those who wish to use EMDR therapy professionally. This certificate signifies that the clinician has acquired the foundational knowledge and skills required to begin practicing EMDR therapy. I personally completed the EMDR training before deciding to go on to earn EMDR certification.
The Value of EMDR Certification
EMDR certification is a formal recognition granted by the EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) to clinicians who have not only completed the approved training but also met specific additional criteria. This certification signifies a higher level of proficiency and qualification in utilizing EMDR therapy in clinical practice. By becoming EMDR certified, clinicians demonstrate their expertise and commitment to the highest standards of EMDR therapy.
For clinicians, EMDR certification enhances their confidence in using EMDR therapy with clients and broadens their ability to help a wider range of individuals seeking this specialized treatment. For clients, knowing that a therapist is EMDR certified provides assurance of the therapist’s advanced skills and dedication to maintaining high professional standards. Additionally, EMDR certification adds significant credibility to a clinician’s role as a mental health professional specializing in EMDR therapy. What was particularly appealing to me in deciding to pursue EMDR certification was the ability to deepen my understanding of the technique and work closely with experienced clinicians who had mastered the technique.
Key Differences Between Trained and Certified Therapists
While both trained and certified therapists have completed EMDR training, there are key differences in their qualifications and experience. Trained therapists have completed the basic training program, which equips them with the foundational skills to practice EMDR therapy. However, they may not have the same level of experience or expertise as certified therapists.
Certified therapists, on the other hand, have not only completed the basic training but have also met additional rigorous requirements. These include accumulating a significant number of hours of EMDR experience, consulting with an approved EMDR consultant, and completing continuing education credits. This extensive process ensures that certified therapists have demonstrated a higher level of proficiency and are recognized as experts in the field of EMDR therapy. While trained therapists are qualified to practice EMDR therapy, certified therapists offer a higher level of recognition and credibility, which can be crucial for client trust and successful outcomes.
How I Became EMDR Certified
To become EMDR certified, clinicians must first complete the basic training program, which is a foundational step towards certification. Following this, clinicians need to accumulate a substantial number of hours practicing EMDR therapy, ensuring they gain practical experience. Additionally, they must pass a written exam that tests their knowledge and understanding of EMDR therapy principles and techniques.
An essential part of the certification process is the consultation with a master clinician. This involves both individualized sessions and small group consultations, providing clinicians with valuable feedback and guidance. Continuing education is also crucial; clinicians must complete biannual continuing education credits to maintain their certification. For those looking to advance their skills further, participating in Intermediate or Advanced EMDR trainings and engaging in EMDR Consultation can be highly beneficial. This structured pathway ensures that clinicians are well-prepared and highly qualified to provide EMDR therapy at the highest standard.
EMDR Training
EMDR Basic Training covers an evidence-based therapy designed to help manage the negative thoughts and feelings commonly associated with traumatic memories. Though PTSD treatment and trauma are the most common applications for EMDR therapy, it can be applied to much more.
Upon completing basic training, clinicians are encouraged to start practicing EMDR therapy to build their confidence and handle simpler cases.
EMDR training prepares therapists to effectively use EMDR Therapy through lectures, demonstrations, videos, mentoring, practicing, and other useful tools. The EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) developed standards that accomplish its EMDR Training Learning Objectives for an adequate level of experience, as defined below:
- Learn various applications for EMDR counseling as treatment for PTSD, trauma, and other specialized needs.
- Become familiar with the 8 Phases of EMDR Therapy beyond a general understanding of its use.
- Discover how EMDR works and why it is a useful treatment option.
- Learn how to develop a thorough treatment plan for trauma counseling.
- Learn how to promote proper trauma processing for patients.
- Learn how to properly utilize Bilateral Stimulation (Dual Attention Stimulation) during treatment.
- Discover proper safety techniques for clients seeking trauma therapy.
- Learn how EMDR counseling can be applied to specialized treatment for anxiety, sexual assault, grief, addiction, substance abuse, phobias, and more.
- Learn how to integrate EMDR Therapy into an established clinical setting.
Accomplishing these objectives generally takes place in multiple parts across approximately 6 months time. Once complete, the licensed therapist will receive an EMDR Training Certificate of Completion and be permitted to provide EMDR counseling.
EMDR Certification
To become certified in EMDR, therapists who have completed the initial training program must also successfully accomplish an additional list of criteria. Official EMDR-certified therapists also complete the following responsibilities:
- Be a licensed mental health professional able to practice independently.
- Become a registered member of the EMDR International Association (EMDRIA).
- Consult with an approved consultant in EMDR for an additional 20 hours
- Minimum of 10 hours must be in an individual setting.
- Up to 10 hours may be obtained in a small group setting.
- Complete at least 50 EMDR treatment sessions with a minimum of 25 clients.
- Complete 12 hours of CEU’s in EMDR after basic training is complete.
Only once all of the criteria have been met can a mental health professional claim to be a Certified-EMDR Therapist. Additionally, in order to maintain certification a practitioner must complete 12 hours of EMDRIA approved continuing education credits biannually. Obviously this is a rigorous process!
Conclusion
The simple answer to what the difference is between an EMDR-trained therapist and an EMDR-certified therapist is experience and training. Trauma counseling is naturally a strenuous, volatile, and sensitive area in which to practice; thorough preparation is vital. EMDR Certification provides the professional and practical experience necessary to safely use EMDR counseling and achieve lasting results. Additionally, EMDR certification renewal requires completing 12 hours of EMDRIA accredited continuing education courses every two years to maintain certification.
To request an appointment online with a Certified-EMDR Therapist in Boca Raton, contact Morgan Center For Counseling & Wellbeing or call 561-717-2900.
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