Why EMDR Accreditation Matters

I first trained in EMDR therapy in 2017, and since then I have been working towards becoming an accredited EMDR Practitioner. After moving from the NHS into private practice, I’ve had more flexibility and capacity to really focus on developing my EMDR skills with the support of my clinical supervisor, who is an accredited EMDR Consultant and Trainer.

I’m very pleased to say that I have now achieved EMDR Practitioner accreditation!

What is EMDR?

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is a powerful, evidence-based therapy that helps people process and recover from trauma and other distressing life experiences.

EMDR can help with difficulties linked to:

• traumatic experiences in childhood or later life

• anxiety and panic

• PTSD and complex trauma

• low self-esteem

• distressing memories

• phobias and fears

Because EMDR works directly with difficult memories and emotional experiences, it is important to work with a therapist who is properly trained, experienced, and working safely within professional standards.

Why is EMDR accreditation important?

When looking for an EMDR therapist, it is important to choose someone who has completed EMDR Europe accredited training. Choosing an accredited EMDR Practitioner means the therapist has demonstrated additional levels of experience, competence, and ongoing professional development.

Accreditation helps to reassure you that your therapist is working safely, ethically, and effectively.

What is involved in becoming an accredited EMDR Practitioner?

Becoming accredited is a rigorous process that goes far beyond completing the initial EMDR training.

EMDR training

Therapists must complete an EMDR Europe accredited training programme. This involves intensive teaching over multiple days, covering the standard EMDR protocol as well as adaptations for more complex presentations.

The training also includes practical experience — both practising EMDR with other trainees and experiencing aspects of the therapy personally.

Clinical experience

Therapists must use EMDR regularly in their day-to-day clinical work with a wide range of client presentations and difficulties. This builds confidence, flexibility, and experience in applying EMDR safely and effectively.

Clinical supervision

Accreditation requires therapists to discuss a minimum number of EMDR cases with an accredited EMDR Consultant.

Therapists also need to share examples of their clinical work for feedback and guidance. In my own accreditation process, this involved my Clinical Supervisor reviewing recordings of full therapy sessions. Although being observed can feel daunting, it was incredibly valuable in helping me refine the skills involved in EMDR therapy and ensure I was providing EMDR safely and effectively.

Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

Accredited EMDR Practitioners commit to ongoing training and professional development to stay up to date with the latest research, developments, and best practice in EMDR therapy.

How does accreditation benefit clients?

High standards of care

Accredited practitioners have been assessed to ensure they are delivering safe, effective, and ethical EMDR therapy. Ongoing supervision helps to maintain these standards over time.

Client safety

Trauma therapy requires specialist knowledge and skill. Accredited EMDR therapists are trained to work safely with complex emotional responses and to adapt therapy according to each client’s needs.

Evidence-based practice

EMDR is recommended by NICE guidelines and supported by research. Accreditation helps ensure therapists are using EMDR in line with current evidence-based practice.

Professional accountability

Accredited practitioners commit to regular supervision and ongoing professional development, helping clients feel confident that they are receiving high-quality and up-to-date care.

Interested in finding out more about EMDR therapy?

If you’d like to explore whether EMDR therapy could help you, you’re welcome to get in touch to arrange a free introductory call.

We can talk about what you’re struggling with at the moment, and whether EMDR therapy with me might feel like the right approach for you. You can also read more about me and my approach here, and here!

You can also read all about EMDR at EMDR UK.