How to ask a therapist about their EMDR training

When a therapist's profile names EMDR among their approaches, it simply reflects what that person wrote about their practice. The directory does not confirm training records, and a profile is not a credential.

If you want more context about professional titles and registration, see /license-types/ and browse profiles at /therapists/.

EMDR is a recognised approach that involves specific training pathways for clinicians. Those pathways vary by country and by training provider, and there is discussion among professionals about how EMDR works.

Because training requirements and titles differ across regions, the safest step is to ask the therapist directly about their training and experience. This directory does not check training records or validate claims made on a profile.

You can ask straightforward questions during a first contact or an initial appointment. Keep them simple and direct.

• Where did you learn EMDR? Ask for the name of the organisation or trainer and whether the training included supervised practice or consultation.
• How much of your work uses this approach? That helps you understand whether it is a core part of their practice or something they occasionally use.
• How do you decide if EMDR is appropriate for someone? You can ask how they assess suitability and how they explain choices to clients.
• What ongoing support do you have? You might ask about supervision, consultation, or continuing professional development related to EMDR.
• Can you describe a typical session structure? Ask for a general description of what to expect without asking for procedural steps you could try yourself.

When you ask, look for answers that are specific and which you can follow up on. Examples below show the kind of language that feels straightforward.

• "I completed a recognised EMDR training programme with [organisation or trainer] that included workshops and supervised practice, and I continue to attend consultation."
• "About one third of my clinical work uses EMDR methods; the rest uses other trauma-focused or integrative approaches depending on the client's needs."
• "I assess suitability by discussing current coping, supports, and goals with the client. If EMDR isn't a good fit, I explain alternatives and refer when needed."
• "I work in consultation with colleagues and take ongoing training to keep my practice up to date."

Less clear answers often sound vague, such as "I do EMDR sometimes" without any detail about training or ongoing learning. If you want more clarity, ask a follow-up question.

As you compare therapists, remember a few practical matters you might want to confirm.

• Ask about the therapist's registration status. Therapists are typically licensed or registered where they practise; in the United States that is usually a state board and often an NPI, in the United Kingdom they may belong to a body such as the BACP or NCPS, and in Australia they may be registered with PACFA, AASW or ACA.
• Ask how they handle session format and cancellations, and whether they work in person, online, or both. This is a question for the therapist rather than an assumed fact from a directory listing.
• Tell the clinician if you have concerns about becoming distressed during a session so you can discuss supports and planning together. Do not try any EMDR procedures on your own.

If you feel at immediate risk of harming yourself or others, contact emergency services right now. Dial 911, 999, or 000 for immediate danger depending on your country.

If you are in crisis but not in immediate danger, you may call or text the crisis lines below for help:

• United States: 988 (call or text)
• United Kingdom: 116 123 (Samaritans)
• Australia: 13 11 14 (Lifeline)

If you are outside these countries, please use your local emergency number or local crisis services.