Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a unique integrative psychotherapy method used by mental health practitioners to address trauma-related issues,  especially PTSD.

Training and qualification are two of the most crucial factors to consider when seeking a therapist for EMDR treatment. If you are seeking EMDR, you can figure it out by seeing their EMDR certifications.

EMDRIA Basic Training

EMDR training is a time-consuming procedure. Those approved by the EMDRIA include the theoretical foundation for the model, in-depth instruction on all eight phases, stabilization techniques, 20 hours of practice sessions, and 10 hours of post-training consultations. 

Many platforms provide a brief training on what EMDR is. However, learning about EMDR is not the same as learning how to use it. 

Trainees are taught the essentials of how to utilize EMDR throughout the course of the first three days, a total of 20 hours, and are allowed to begin utilizing EMDR while getting a consultation. 

A learner is regarded as trained in EMDR after completing the second weekend, and the requisite consultation hours. To be completely trained in EMDR, your therapist must complete 50 hours of training in addition to whatever graduate degree is required to conduct counseling.

EMDR Certifications

EMDR certification is a certificate that allows therapists to designate themselves as certified on the EMDRIA website. Clients can be sure that their practitioner has invested additional time in training and consulting. To be certified in EMDR, a therapist must:

  • Complete independent license
  • Thorough EMDR understanding
  • Completed 20 hours of EMDR-specific counseling with an EMDRIA-approved consultant 
  • Obtain a letter of reference from an EMDRIA-approved consultant and submit it
  • Two letters of recommendation from coworkers or peers
  • Complete a 12-hour advanced EMDR training program.
  • Submission of notarized declaration of practice and experience.

Levels 1 and 2

EMDR is a therapeutic procedure that works best when the model’s integrity is maintained, making sure your therapist has gotten the proper training is crucial. 

Therapists may offer a number of credentials for performing EMDR, such as EMDR certified, EMDR trained, Level 1, and Level 2. 

Clinicians used to market themselves as “Level 1 Trained” after finishing the first weekend which is for 20 hours and “Level 2 Trained” after finishing the second weekend of 20 hours. However, EMDRIA no longer uses this language or worldview. 

After the initial course, a clinician can begin utilizing EMDR on non-complex trauma. However, they are still regarded as “in training” and not “trained.” In brief, we no longer use training levels 1 or 2. Instead, simply trained or in training are used. 

You may have the choice of EMDR Certified clinicians or clinicians working toward certification among the fully trained EMDR clinicians. 

EMDR-trained clinicians can also choose not to pursue certification.

It is always beneficial to know whether your clinician receives consultation if they attended an EMDRIA recognized program, and their expertise with your specific condition, regardless of certification status or accreditation.

Practicing with Tools

While an EMDR certification may not require the use of EMDR tools for bilateral stimulation, using one may help you train better. 

EMDR therapists frequently use EMDR equipment because working with specific EMDR Kit’s equipment can help your arms feel better. Additionally, it provides you with additional choices throughout your EMDR sessions, allowing you to differentiate between clients.

Using EMDR Kit allows you to take notes and concentrate more on the client. EMDR therapy can be tiring for some people. It enables you to adjust to the requirements of your clients with visual, auditory, and kinesthetic cues. 

Tactile stimulation is something that may be done in a variety of ways separately or in combination. There is an app that you may put on your tablet or smartphone adjustment for convenience. 

Furthermore, once your client is aware of the product it becomes an instinctive response for them when they stop working. It does not interfere with processing.

Types of EMDR Kit

EMDR Kit Classic

The EMDR Kit Classic model is the wired version of the EMDR Kit. It has a controller with an integrated battery that eliminates the need to put in batteries. This package includes a tripod for height adjustment. 

If you prefer a controller, the EMDR Kit Classic appears to be a sturdy device with numerous capabilities crammed inside the controller unit.

EMDR Kit Wireless

The EMDR Kit Wireless can be operated wirelessly. It appears to be the most contemporary equipment on the market. Moreover, it allows for more mobility and eliminates the need for cables. 

In terms of features, it also provides a wide range of alternatives. For instance, for visual stimulation, color selections are also useful. You may select from various hues as well as a random color that varies with each pair. 

The app also lets you choose your own sound or music files from your phone to play bilaterally. This is a useful option because some customers prefer calming music over normal sounds. 

The Pulsators are also efficient, and the intensity is adjustable from gentle to extreme. You can also turn on lights on them to use the pulsators for bilateral eye movements.

Price

EMDR Kit offers two types of kits. The first is the EMDR Kit Classic which costs €384.30. It includes a controller, light tube, tripod, pulsators, headphones, and charger. 

The second model is Wireless EMDR Kit Set which cost €433.88. This set includes a light tube, pulsators, headphones, and a charger. For this model, you will need a smartphone or tablet to control the tools, which is why no controller is required. 

If you have an issue with the set up you can always contact their customer service or simply go through the troubleshooting guide.

Final Thoughts

EMDR therapy is a comprehensive psychotherapy that speeds the treatment of a variety of diseases and trauma associated with upsetting experiences and current life situations. 

EMDRIA offers the opportunity to become an EMDR Certified Therapist to mental health practitioners who are fully licensed to participate in private, independent practice and have completed an EMDRIA Approved EMDR Training in its entirety.

Many EMDR therapists find EMDR treatment tiring which is why they use EMDR Kit. The EMDR kit is a valuable tool for therapists and is much more convenient.

Author

  • Mary-Beth Zolik, M.Ed LMHC

    Mary-Beth is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a M.Ed in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Montevallo. Mary-Beth has been in the field of psychology in a variety of roles for the past 20 years.

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