Finding the best EMDR therapist for you can be a crucial step in your mental health journey. EMDR therapy, which stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is an effective treatment approach for individuals who have experienced traumatic events, are struggling with certain mental health conditions, or are having trouble moving past deeply ingrained limiting beliefs. This powerful therapeutic modality is also shown to help clients heal faster and more cost-effectively than some other types of therapy. However, not all EMDR therapists are created equal, and it's essential to identify a qualified practitioner who can provide the necessary support and guidance for your EMDR treatment. In this blog, we will discuss what to consider when finding a qualified EMDR therapist, the distinction between EMDR-trained and EMDR-certified practitioners, red flags for therapy, and important questions to ask potential therapists. By following these steps, you can find an EMDR therapist who suits your specific needs and preferences, and begin the healing journey towards improving your daily life. So, let's dive in!
What Makes a Qualified EMDR Therapist?
Before getting into the process of finding the best EMDR therapist for you, let's get acquainted with some of the aspects of a qualified practitioner. EMDR therapy is a specialized form of psychotherapy, and its effectiveness relies heavily on the expertise and training of the therapist. While a therapist has a license issued by their respective state, an EMDR therapist undergoes additional training that is not often established by the state licensing body. When looking for my own providers, I typically look for credentials such as being an EMDRIA Certified Therapist, which means they have undergone the necessary training and met the qualifications of certification through EMDRIA (EMDR International Association). EMDRIA is the original membership organization for EMDR therapists and seeks to promote the highest standards for the clinical use of EMDR. These credentials ensure that the therapist has received comprehensive training and has met the standards set by EMDRIA. By identifying a qualified therapist, you can have confidence in their ability to provide effective EMDR therapy and support your mental health needs.
The Distinction Between EMDR-Trained and EMDR-Certified
It is essential to understand the distinction between therapists who are EMDR-trained and those who are EMDR-certified. While both have received training in EMDR therapy, the “certification” designation from EMDRIA notes someone has completed more consultation and additional training than someone who has received basic training (among other requirements).
EMDR-trained therapists have completed basic training in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing techniques, which enables them to conduct EMDR sessions. However, being EMDR-trained does not necessarily mean they have obtained specific certifications or met additional criteria established by professional organizations.
On the other hand, EMDRIA Certified Therapists have not only completed the initial training but also fulfilled additional requirements, such as conducting a certain number of EMDR sessions under supervision, acquiring additional training, demonstrating proficiency in the therapy approach through review of session recordings, having multiple therapists write recommendation letters for them, and more. Certification from EMDRIA ensures that the therapist has undergone thorough training and continues to engage in professional development to enhance their skills.
When choosing an EMDR therapist, it may be beneficial to opt for someone who is EMDR-certified when possible. Their certification may provide assurance of their competence, adherence to ethical standards, and dedication to the ongoing practice of EMDR therapy. This distinction can be instrumental in ensuring that you receive effective treatment for traumatic experiences and mental health concerns.
Above all else though, it’s good to know if your therapist was trained and/or certified through an EMDRIA approved training program or a different program. There are other companies that offer “EMDR training/certification”, but their rigor may not rise to the same standards set by EMDRIA–meaning they could potentially not have the same level of proficiency going into their EMDR work. While there are some companies that offer an extensive training and certification program (like the Parnell Institute founded by Laurel Parnell, an EMDR pioneer who has been practicing and innovating since 1991), other companies may not have as many requirements. You deserve the best and that starts with being able to make informed decisions regarding your EMDR therapist, therefore it is important to research the quality of any certifying institution when it comes to finding an EMDR Certified (or trained) therapist.
Can an EMDR-Trained Therapist Still Be Effective?
Absolutely! While certification is an official stamp of approval stating that the clinician has performed a rigorous process to certify their competence in practicing EMDR, EMDR-trained clinicians can also provide benefit. Not all skilled clinicians decide to do the certification process and that is okay. You may want to ask more questions during your initial consultation call though so that you can be sure that they regularly engage in continued education and advancement of their skills in EMDR–a requirement to keep EMDRIA certification status, but not for those with basic training.
Steps to Find the Best EMDR Therapist
When seeking an EMDR therapist, start by researching EMDR practitioners in your area. Look for clinicians who have completed specialized training in your specific areas of concern and are experienced in conducting EMDR sessions. It's crucial to find a therapist who understands your specific needs, whether related to trauma, anxiety, panic attacks, attachment issues, personality disorders, mood disorders, or other mental health concerns. Additionally, consider the possibility of online EMDR therapy, which can offer flexibility and convenience. By selecting an EMDR therapist who is knowledgeable about parts work, somatic psychology, and other complementary techniques, it may enhance the effectiveness of your treatment.
Step 1: Discovery
Where Can You Find EMDR Therapists?
Once you've decided that you'd like to pursue EMDR therapy, you then have to physically locate a therapist. This can feel difficult at first, but you have several options for discovering clinicians in your area. Here are some of the most common ways below.
Google Search
You have several options for finding an EMDR therapist near you. The first and most popular option is to simply do a Google search. For example, in our area I would Google "EMDR therapist St. Louis" and it would populate clinicians with business listings and popular websites in my area. The only downside to this approach is that you are going to be shown therapy websites that get the most website traffic and won't easily see all the available options.
EMDRIA's Website
Another option to find an EMDR therapist is by going to the EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) website and utilizing their directory. This is a list of clinicians organized by location. This option provides you with specific listings with name, website information, contact information, and even some information on specialties and populations. However, someone has to be a member of EMDRIA in order to be listed on the directory as it is not free. This may limit your ability to see all clinicians in your area. The good news is that most EMDRIA Certified Therapists, EMDRIA Consultants-In-Training, EMDRIA Approved Consultants, and EMDRIA Basic Trainers are often listed in the directory.
Other Therapy Directories
If Google and EMDRIA don't work out for you, you can try another online therapy directory like Psychology Today, Mental Health Match, Therapy Den, or even Open Path Collective if you're looking for lower cost services. These directories often charge therapists to join, so again, they may not have everyone on there, but they do allow for a pretty thorough look at the clinicians in your area. Make sure to use filter options so that you can sort by therapy type, specialties, and more.
Ask Friends & Loved Ones
For some of us, we come to discover EMDR therapy through watching our friends and loved ones go through the process. Oftentimes, clients will note that people they know tell them that they seem different, more at ease, and secure in themselves. If you know someone who has gone through this process and had great results, ask for their therapist's name. In some cases they may be able to work with you and in others (if there is a conflict of interest) they may know another EMDR therapist that they can refer you to instead.
Step 2: Weighing Your Options
How do you choose the EMDR Therapist for you?
Now that you've found some potential candidates, you now need to select the best EMDR therapist for you. This is a personal choice, but there are some things to look out for when deciding which provider you'd like to go with. When selecting a therapist, consider finding a professional who can meet your specific therapy needs and objectives. It's crucial to seek out a clinician who creates a safe space for EMDR treatment and with whom you feel comfortable. Additionally, look for a therapist with experience in addressing your specific needs whether that's PTSD, OCD, or attachment issues. You might also want to explore therapists who integrate other therapeutic modalities like mindfulness, hypnotherapy, NLP techniques, parts work, or somatic techniques into their EMDR sessions for a comprehensive approach. You should be able to locate most of this information on their website or listing page. If you can't find information about how they work and what modalities they use, be sure to ask when you email them or schedule a consultation call.
Step 3: Consultation Call
After you've done a bit of research on your potential clinician it's important to set up a consultation call if possible. Many therapists offer a free, or sometimes paid, brief conversation regarding their clinical work. If they don't offer a consultation call, you can still most likely ask any questions you may have via email.
What questions should I ask during my initial consultation with an EMDR therapist?
During your initial consultation with a potential clinician, it's important to ask about their training and experience with EMDR therapy. Inquire about their approach to treating your specific condition or issue. Discuss the expected duration of treatment and how progress will be measured. Address any concerns or questions you have about the therapy process.
Here is a list of potential questions:
How long have you been trained?
Was your training from an EMDRIA approved training program? If not, what program did you go through?
Are you certified or do you plan to be? If so, what is the name of the certifying organization?
What advanced trainings have you taken?
What populations do you work with and how do you help them?
Do you use any other types of therapeutic modalities along with EMDR?
Do you use EMDR all throughout the process or just sprinkle it in as an intervention at times?
How long do people with my type of issue typically stay in treatment?
Do you have experience working X condition? (Insert any conditions you have that may need extra support during treatment e.g. dissociation, traumatic brain injury, epilepsy, aphantasia)
Do you offer in-person or online therapy?
What are some red flags to watch out for when choosing an EMDR therapist?
Some red flags to be aware of when selecting an EMDR therapist include lack of proper training in EMDR, failure to explain the therapy process or answer questions, and judgmental or dismissive behavior. If you get a feeling that the clinician may not be that knowledgeable or you feel uncomfortable when speaking with them, it's okay to choose someone else.
Step 4: Make a Decision
Once you've done your research, compared a few qualified therapists and have had a chance to speak to them to ask any important questions, it's time to make a decision. Trust your instincts and choose a therapist with whom you feel comfortable and supported. You've done the ground work and you have the ability to choose the right EMDR therapist for you, and if the first choice is not the right fit, you can always look again.
Conclusion
Finding the best EMDR therapist for you can be an important step in your healing journey. It's important to ensure that you're working with a qualified professional who understands your specific needs and can provide the right support. Remember, EMDR therapy is a specialized form of treatment, and not all therapists are trained or certified in this technique.
If you're ready to take the next step in your healing journey in Missouri or Florida, reach out. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
Disclaimer: The information shared in this article reflects my personal opinions and professional perspectives. It is provided for general educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice, therapy, or a substitute for individualized guidance. I make no guarantees about the completeness, accuracy, or outcomes of applying the ideas discussed. If you are seeking advice specific to your situation, please consult a qualified professional.
