How to Become an EMDR Therapist in Utah: A Step-by-Step Guide

*EMDR training/certification requirements come from EMDRIA and can change. Confirm current requirements here.

Figures below reflect EMDRIA's standard Basic Training structure as of 2026.

To become an EMDR therapist in Utah, you complete an EMDRIA-approved EMDR Basic Training: 20 hours of instruction, 20 hours of supervised practicum, and 10 hours of consultation. Once you meet the eligibility requirements (licensed to practice psychotherapy, or master's-level and in a licensing track under supervision). Certification is a separate, optional step that comes later.

• STEP 1: Confirm you’re eligible

  You must be licensed to independently practice psychotherapy in a discipline EMDRIA recognizes, or if not yet licensed, have completed master's-level coursework in a mental health field and be on a licensing track under a licensed supervisor.

• STEP 2: Complete an EMDRIA-approved Basic Training

  Basic Training has three components: 20 hours of instruction, 20 hours of supervised practicum, and 10 hours of consultation. Choose an EMDRIA-approved program (see the post on how to choose one). My next Salt Lake City Basic Training runs Oct 29–31 and Dec 3–5, 2026. Details and registration here.

• STEP 3: Start using EMDR with clients

  After Basic Training you can ethically use EMDR in your practice. Many clinicians keep getting consultation as they build confidence with real cases.

• STEP 4 (optional): Pursue EMDRIA Certification

  Certification is not the same as completing Basic Training. It requires additional consultation hours with an EMDRIA-Approved Consultant, continuing-education EMDRIA Credits, documented EMDR experience, and your license.

FAQ

How long does it take?

Often a few months to a year depending on training schedule and pace.

Do I have to be certified to use EMDR?

No. Basic Training is what's required to practice; certification is optional and signals advanced competency.

Train with me in Salt Lake City

I co-lead EMDR Training: Integrating EMDR into Your Clinical Practice, an EMDRIA-approved EMDR Basic Training, in person at the SLC Marriott University Park: Part 1: Oct 29–31, 2026 and Part 2: Dec 3–5, 2026 (with Trevor Hardcastle, LMFT). It meets all EMDRIA Basic Training requirements: 40 CE hours plus 10 hours of consultation. Early-bird pricing through Aug 19, 2026; register by Oct 18.