06/07/2026
Take Notice! It has been brought to our attention!
Please be aware some are claiming to use EMDR (vibration paddles, light bar or bilateral stimulation) but are not trained or qualified to do so with EMDIRA Canada! Some are trying to use with children and adults and are untrained.
There is often confusion about who should be providing EMDR therapy and what training is required.
EMDR is not simply a technique that can be learned from a book, YouTube video, or weekend workshop. According to EMDRIA (the EMDR International Association), EMDR Basic Training requires extensive education, supervised practicum, and consultation. EMDRIA-approved training includes a minimum of:
• 20-30 hours of instructional training
• 20 hours of supervised practicum
• 10 hours of consultation with an approved consultant
There are 8 phases of EMDR to complete proper treatment requires skill and safety.
EMDRIA also states that qualifying clinicians must generally possess a Master’s degree in a mental health field (such as Social Work, Psychology, Counselling, or Psychotherapy) and be licensed or working toward licensure under supervision.
EMDR Canada further identifies an EMDR therapist as a clinician who is licensed in a mental health profession, belongs to a professional regulatory body, and has completed an EMDRIA-approved Basic EMDR Training Program.
Why does this matter?
Because EMDR is a specialized psychotherapy approach designed to treat trauma and other distressing experiences. Proper training, supervision, consultation, and clinical judgment are essential for client safety and effective treatment.
When seeking EMDR therapy, consider asking:
✔ Have you completed an EMDRIA-approved Basic EMDR Training Program?
✔ Are you regulated by a professional college or licensing body?
✔ Do you receive EMDR consultation or supervision?
Client safety should always come first.
Sources:
EMDR Canada:
https://emdrcanada.ca/become-emdr-therapist-canada/
EMDRIA Eligibility Requirements:
https://www.emdria.org/emdr-training/eligibility-requirements-for-emdr-training/
EMDRIA Basic Training Standards:
https://www.emdria.org/emdr-training/
EMDRIA – Training vs Certification:
https://www.emdria.org/training-vs-certification/
EMDRIA:
https://www.emdria.org/
EMDRIA™ is a professional association for EMDR practitioners and researchers to seek the highest standards for clinical use of EMDR. EMDR is an accepted psychotherapy by leading mental health organizations throughout the world for the treatment of a variety of symptoms and conditions.
