The EMDR Training consists of seven days of training divided into three parts. The training is a mixture of didactic teaching (with plenty of opportunity for asking questions), video and live demonstrations of EMDR therapy as well as supervised practice of using EMDR with other participants. During the training, all participants will have the experience of being an EMDR therapist and also of receiving EMDR therapy relating to a mildly distressing memory. The full, detailed timetable can be found by clicking this link. Here is a summary of what is covered in the seven days:
Part One (3 days)
This will start with an introduction to the theoretical basis for EMDR and how it integrates with neurological theories regarding the nature of trauma as well as the research basis for EMDR. A detailed description and explanation of the EMDR protocol will be provided. This will be followed by an explanation and practice of preparing clients for EMDR therapy. Participants will be given detailed instruction regarding a basic form of EMDR therapy before receiving closely supervised practice of EMDR using a minor distressing memory from the participant’s own life. There will be an introduction regarding how to modify EMDR in order to use it with children.
Between parts One and Two (usually a period of at least 4 months), participants will practise EMDR therapy in their place of work.
Part Two (2 days)
After a recap regarding the standard protocol, participants will start to learn about using EMDR with more complex clients. This will include techniques to stabilize clients before commencing EMDR therapy, working with abreactions and how to work with blocks and resistance. Ways of using EMDR in the past, present and future will be covered. Issues of grief and applications for using EMDR with phobias will be explained. Participants will receive supervision regarding clients with whom they have worked since Part One and there will be further opportunity for practising EMDR on each other using the more advanced techniques that have been learned.
Between parts Two and Three (usually a period of at least 4 months), participants will practise EMDR therapy in their place of work, utilizing some of the more advanced techniques that have been learned.
Part Three (2 days)
Participants will learn about complex trauma and dissociation (with particular reference to childhood sexual abuse), how this can be assessed and how to use EMDR with such clients. More detailed strategies for using EMDR with children will be explained and demonstrated. The use of EMDR with specific populations (including somatic disorders, addictions, OCD, depression, eating disorders, anger and psychosis) will be outlined. Part Three will also include further supervision of cases and practice of EMDR therapy. Finally participants will learn about further supervision and accreditation as an EMDR therapist.
Accreditation as an EMDR Europe Practitioner
On completion of all three parts of the EMDR training, participants will be trained to a level which is recognised throughout the UK & Ireland and Europe and they will receive the EMDR Europe certificate of completion.
They will have completed 10 hours of the 20 hours minimum supervision required in order to become accredited. Participants are expected to complete the final part of their accreditation as an EMDR Europe Accredited Practitioner under supervision from an accredited EMDR Consultant. Accreditation is voluntary, but highly recommended.
Further training for working with children and adolescents
Robin Logie’s training provides some basic instruction on using EMDR with children and adolescents. However, child and adolescent therapists are strongly advised to attend further specialist training in working with this client group. Part 1 of this training is two days and Part 2 is also two days. Details can be found on the EMDR Association website.