How to Choose an EMDR Therapist

Finding a therapist can feel like a project in itself, especially when you are already carrying a lot. Here is a simple, practical guide to choosing an EMDR therapist you can trust.

1. Check their EMDR training

EMDR is a specialized therapy that requires real training beyond a general counseling degree. The standard to look for is completion of EMDR Basic Training from an EMDRIA-Approved training provider. EMDRIA is the EMDR International Association, the organization that sets training standards for the field.

This is the one box we check for you: every therapist listed on EMDRtherapists.com has completed EMDR Basic Training from an EMDRIA-Approved training provider.

2. Ask a few direct questions

Most therapists offer a brief phone consultation before you commit, and good ones welcome questions like these:

• How much of your practice is EMDR, and how long have you been using it?
• Have you worked with concerns like mine before?
• What would our first few sessions look like?
• Do you offer in-person sessions, online sessions, or both?
• What are your fees, and do you take my insurance or offer superbills?

You are not being difficult by asking. You are being a good steward of your own care.

3. Weigh the practical fit

Therapy works best when it is sustainable. Consider location and schedule, whether online sessions suit you (research supports EMDR delivered via telehealth), cost over the likely course of care, and any preferences that matter to you, such as a therapist who understands your community, faith, language, or profession.

4. Trust the feeling of fit

Research on therapy consistently finds that the relationship between you and your therapist is one of the strongest predictors of a good outcome. After a first conversation, ask yourself: Did I feel heard? Could I imagine being honest with this person? It is completely okay to talk with two or three therapists before choosing, and a good therapist will respect that.

Where to start

Our directory lets you search by location, and every profile shows the therapist’s background, approach, and how to reach them. Reaching out is a small step, and it is often the hardest one. From there, you are no longer doing this alone.

This article is for general education. It is not therapy, diagnosis, or a substitute for care from a licensed professional.