EMDR Basic Training

EMDRIA-approved basic training with EMDRIA-approved trainers and consultants

150+ page training manuals

45 hours live instruction

20+ resource videos

Our EMDR Basic Training course is for you if…

  • You want to increase your clinical skill set

  • You’re seeking professional development

  • Your clientele needs trauma-focused therapy approaches

  • You have clients who are stuck in their trauma

  • You’re ready to learn about a holistic, client-centered approach

  • You’re interested in learning more about this evidence-based, effective therapy

EMDR Basic Training Overview

Elevate EMDR Academy’s EMDR Basic Training is designed for licensed and pre-licensed (i.e., candidate or provisional status) mental health professionals who wish to incorporate EMDR Therapy into clinical practice. This training meets the full standards set by the EMDR International Association (EMDRIA), which includes over 20 hours of instructor-led didactic content, 20 hours of practice activities, and 10 hours of small-group instructional sessions focused on in-depth instruction and clinical application.

The course emphasizes a strong theoretical foundation in the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model, alongside structured opportunities to apply EMDR protocols. Participants engage in guided instruction, demonstration, and practice using all eight phases of EMDR therapy and 3-Prongs (Past, Present, Future), with particular attention to clinical decision-making, client readiness, and integration into broader trauma treatment frameworks.

Training sessions adhere to the following schedule…

  • 3 consecutive days of training, typically 9 hours long (7.5 hrs training, 1.5 hrs in breaks per day).

  • Morning lectures

  • Afternoons integrate lecture and practical activities (i.e., utilizing protocols).

  • Overview of EMDR - history, core concepts, methodology, AIP model, purpose and components of the 8 phases and 3-prongs.

Part 1 - Live training

  • 3 consecutive days of training, typically 9 hours long (7.5 hrs training, 1.5 hrs in breaks per day).

  • Morning lectures

  • Afternoons integrate lecture and practical activities.

  • Specialized uses - EMDR and PTSD, children, recent events, working with special populations and specialized protocols.

Part 2 - Live training

Group Meetings - Live

  • 10 hours of group meetings

  • 4 x 2.5 hour meetings

  • Conceptualize cases from the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) perspective

  • Instruction in core concepts and protocols

  • Discuss experience using EMDR and gain valuable feedback from EMDRIA-approved consultants.

    • Pre-learning videos (e.g., History of EMDR, Window of Tolerance)

    • Online classroom with course materials, videos and resources

    • Live instruction for Parts 1 & 2 which include lectures, case examples, and videos (you need to attend each day of training at the time it occurs)

    • Practical activities where you rotate through the roles of therapist (to practice new skills), client (for the client experience), and observer (to observe EMDR techniques in real time). Small group discussion, debriefs, and assistance from Training Faculty.

    • Group meetings - sessions facilitated by an EMDRIA-approved faculty offer opportunities for in-depth discussion on applying course content to EMDR cases.

    • Community message board to post questions, discuss EMDR training topics, and support following completion of training

    • Completing a learning assessment at the end of training (required by EMDR International Association)

    • Continued support after training:

      • After training: Become a member of Elevate's EMDR Community (regular meetings and a community discussion board).

      • After training: Complimentary opportunity to audit the lecture portion of a future online training

  • During this training, you will be introduced to the foundation of EMDR therapy (Part 1) and advanced applications (Part 2). EMDR therapy provides a structured approach to support clients in processing difficult experiences, helping them to cope more effectively in the present. Traumatic or negative events can disrupt the brain's natural healing process, and EMDR therapy offers a framework to assist in releasing emotions and restoring balance.

    • Lecture with case examples and videos - interactive components, Q & A

    • Small group activities in the afternoons with debriefs

    • Small group question and answer periods

    • Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) Model - understanding memory networks and case conceptualization

    • Description of trauma (DSM diagnostic criteria) and adverse experiences (ACEs)

    • Purpose and Components of each of the 8 phases is explained

    • History taking and treatment planning from the AIP perspective and 3-pronged approach (Past, Present, & Future)

    • Introduction to techniques for identifying processing targets in a memory network (Floatback & Affect Scan) in addition to direct questions/interview

    • Stabilization and preparation for reprocessing (psychoeducation and coping strategies/resources)

    • Client and therapist readiness for reprocessing - client readiness checklist (Phases 1 & 2)

    • Bilateral stimulation (BLS) techniques introduced and practiced in lecture and practicums

    • Reprocessing past traumatic and adverse experiences (Phases 3-6: Assessment, Desensitization, Installation & Body Scan)

    • Strategies to handle blocked processing or abreactions in reprocessing phases (phases 4-6)

    • Taxing working memory with dual attention stimuli and bilateral stimulation

    • Maintaining dual awareness and working within the window of tolerance

    • Processing present triggers with EMDR

    • Part 2 focuses on treatment planning considerations beyond simple trauma.

    • Applications to recent traumatic events and restricted processing techniques using EMD & EMDr

    • Applications for working with complex trauma and dissociation (e.g., recognizing and screening for dissociation)

    • Working with children (treatment planning, reprocessing, measurement strategies, BLS options, containment)

    • Applications for treatment planning for anxiety, phobias, chronic pain, complicated grief, and addictions (protocol options)

    • Cultural considerations and EMDR therapy

In-Person EMDR Basic Training

Come together with Dr. Kelly and other therapists to learn the basics of EMDR training and practice your skills in-person.

Virtual EMDR Basic Training

Learn the EMDR basics from wherever you are. Connect with Dr. Kelly online and participate in training sessions remotely.

Bring Dr. Kelly to your organization.

Connect with Dr. Kelly or the Elevate EMDR team to discuss booking an engaging and personalized training session.

Dr. Kelly Penner Hutton,

Licensed Clinical Psychologist and EMDRIA-Approved Trainer and Consultant

I’m passionate about the transformative power of EMDR therapy and committed to providing comprehensive EMDR training and consultation for licensed mental health professionals. As an experienced EMDRIA-approved instructor and registered clinical psychologist, I focus on delivering structured EMDR education, fostering a sense of community among therapists, and offering the support needed to develop clinical confidence.

With a background as a clinic director and practicing psychologist, I’ve witnessed firsthand the life-changing impact of EMDR therapy. These experiences inspire me to help other therapists integrate EMDR principles into their practice, ensuring they feel supported as they refine their skills.

Whether you’re new to EMDR or seeking to deepen your expertise, I’m here to guide you through the process with expert consultation, practical learning, and a strong professional community.

Let’s grow together and make a meaningful impact on the clients and communities we serve. I believe in not only teaching the skills therapists need but also fostering a sense of community along the way. Supporting you as you learn and grow in your practice is something I genuinely care about.

Become an EMDR Trained Therapist

EMDR Trained Therapist - Upon completion of an EMDRIA-Approved EMDR Training you will receive a Certificate of Completion for EMDR Basic Training and are considered an EMDR Trained Therapist.

Ready to start your EMDR training journey?

EMDR Basic Training Objectives

Part 1 Objectives

    • List the 8-phases of EMDR Therapy 

    • List the 3 prongs of EMDR Therapy

    • Explain how EMDR was discovered by Francine Shapiro

    • Describe EMDR as an evidence-based therapy

    • Describe at least 2 mechanisms of action theorized to explain how EMDR Therapy works

    • Describe two client resources (i.e., calm place, container, 4 elements, lightstream)

    • Explain the purpose of phase 3 - Assessment phase

    • Identify 3 key components of phase 3

    • Identify the measurement scale used in Phase 4 - Desensitization phase

    • Explain Desensitization phase’s purpose

    • Describe and demonstrate the phase 4 protocol used to desensitize a memory (e.g., start statement, BLS sets, going Back to Target, SUDs)

    • Identify qualities of a Positive Cognition (PC)

    • Identify at least three strategies to deal with hyper-arousal or hypo-arousal (over or under accessing traumatic material)

    • Describe how to close a session to promote emotional equilibrium

    • Identify the target of reprocessing in the 2nd prong (Present)

    • Explain when to use the Future Template in the order of target processing (past, present and future prongs)

Part 2 Objectives

    • Explain the concept of pathology from the AIP perspective

    • Identify which of the 8 phases are considered reprocessing phases 

    • Identify two types of interweaves

    • List two cognitive interweave plateaus

    • Demonstrate application of the reprocessing phase protocols - Desensitization, Installation, Body Scan (in the practice activity demonstrate at minimum Desensitization phase)

    • Describe complex trauma

    • List at least two signs of dissociation

    • Identify two modifications to history taking that can be made in phase 1 for complex trauma

    • Identify at least two types of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs)

    • Identify a question you can ask in phase 1 to explore a client’s social and cultural experiences

    • Describe 2 methods for measuring SUDs with children other than using a numbered scale of 0-10

    • Utilize procedures for special populations (military or sexual abuse survivors)

    • Utilize procedures for special situations, including Single traumatic events, EMD, EMDR, Anxiety protocol

    • Describe treatment planning considerations for special situations: for example, possible Past prong memory reprocessing targets for complicated grief, assessing for dissociation, and extending phase 2

    • Utilize procedures to process a single traumatic event

    • Identify procedures to restrict processing, such as using EMD (short BLS set) and EMDr (medium BLS set), to restrict access to associations during reprocessing

    • List two potential Past prong memories that may be targeted for reprocessing complicated grief

    • Apply, demonstrate, and practice the Future Template protocol (e.g., in training activities or therapeutic practice)

    • Demonstrate the procedural steps of the Resource Development and Installation (RDI) protocol (e.g., in training activities or therapeutic practice)

Discipline Objectives

    • Provide a working definition of trauma from a psychological perspective and explain how it relates to the adaptive information processing (AIP) model.

    • Utilize all 8 phases of EMDR Therapy concerning general, well-established principles for trauma-informed care.

    • Discuss, in general, what it means to be an ethical EMDR Therapist as it relates to psychology, psychotherapy, and counselling standards.

    • Identify modifications or phase considerations for EMDR therapy with at least one of the following groups of people/clinical situations: Adults, Children, addictions, survivors of sexual abuse, military, and complex PTSD .

    • Provide a working definition of trauma from a social work perspective.

    • Utilize all 8 phases of EMDR Therapy concerning general, well-established principles for trauma-informed care.

    • Discuss, in general, what it means to be an ethical EMDR Therapist ensuring safe and ethical practice as it relates to social work standards.

    • Explain potential modifications or phase considerations for EMDR therapy with at least one of the following groups of people/clinical situations: Adults, Children, addictions, survivors of sexual abuse, military, and complex PTSD.

EMDR Basic Training Policies

  • Eligibility Requirements

    All participants are welcome at training, so long as the eligibility requirements are met, regardless of an individual’s sexual orientation, gender identity, race, ethnicity, culture, religion, or disability.

    All participants in the training must be licensed or on a licensing track. These requirements outline the minimum eligibility requirements to participate in an EMDRIA-Approved EMDR Basic Training.

    Who can take the training:

    Licensed Health Professionals

    • Mental health clinicians who have at minimum of a Master’s Degree in a mental health field (e.g., Counselling, Marriage and Family Therapy, Psychology, Psychotherapy, Psychiatry, Social Work) or related mental health discipline and be licensed to practice through a professional organization or regulation body that includes a code of ethics and public protection.

    • Medical Doctors licensed in their province or state who have training in mental health

    • Registered Nurses who have a Master’s Degree with a specialization in mental health (psychiatric mental health nursing) and who are licensed in their province or state

    Pre-Licensed Mental Health Professionals

    • Clinicians who are actively pursuing a mental health license through their provincial, state, or national regulating body while working under a licensed supervisor (e.g., intern, associate, provisional or candidate status).

    Graduate Students

    • Current enrolment in a Master’s or Doctoral program in a mental health field (Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, Psychology, Psychotherapy, Psychiatry, Social Work). Core graduate academic coursework must have been completed (80% of coursework) and have completed or are currently in the practicum/internship portion of their graduate program. First year graduate students are not eligible. Graduate students must be on a licensing track and working under the supervision of a licensed mental health clinician. *Graduate students are required to provide documentation (unofficial transcript, practicum or internship details, and a letter from their supervisor that includes their support for taking the training, their license information and number, stating that you will be seeing clients under their supervision and you have access to clients you can use EMDR Therapy with).

    If you are unsure that you meet these prerequisites, please contact the training provider at info@elevateemdr.ca.

  • Registration is completed after the eligibility criteria have been met (EMDR Training Registration intake form completed and support documentation provided - copy of license, copy of degree)

    $200 deposit is required at the time of registration being accepted

    Early bird rate: Payment must be completed in full by the Early Bird deadline

    Regular rate (after the early bird date): Payment in full at time of registration

  • Refunds on purchased trainings are available until 30 days before the first day of training. There are no refunds after this date. No refund will be issued once the training begins (i.e., Day 1 of Part 1).

    $200 of the total tuition is non-refundable if a learner requests to cancel their enrolment (processing fee).

    Elevate EMDR Academy offers online training 2-3 times a year. It is important to cancel as soon as you know that you cannot attend. Should you need to cancel within 30 days of a training, options will be discussed for transferring the registration fee to a different training. Documentation to justify a transfer will need to be provided by yourself. A $200 transfer fee will apply and refunds on transferred training sessions will not be provided.

    Refunds and EMDR training certificates are not available to participants who miss portions of training i.e. missing a portion of a training day or whole training days; missing group meeting sessions.

    48 hours prior to the first day of training (Part 1), transfers are no longer available and attendees will lose their registration if they are no longer able to attend the training.

  • If you wish to transfer to a different group, you may do so without a fee of up to 30 days before the first day of your purchased training.

    If it is less than 30 days before your purchased training begins, transfer to a different training will be possible under certain conditions only and will be subject to a $500 transfer fee as well as documentation to justify a transfer (ex: sickness, death of an immediate family member). Transfer to a different training will only be allowed once.

    Refunds are not provided on transferred trainings. Transfer to a different training date, needs to be within 1 year of the original registration date.

  • Refunds and Basic EMDR training certificates are not available to participants who miss portions of training (i.e. missing a portion of a day or whole training days).

    Terms and Conditions

    In order to obtain credit for training, you must attend all days. You cannot miss (or be late) for any part of the training.

    A participant just attend in full (cannot miss any time for Part 1, Part 2, or Group meetings). Should any time be missed, the participant will need to complete the training by attending the portion that was missed at a future training.

    Time to complete training: Participants have 12 months to complete training which includes: Part 1 and 2 of training (20 instructional hours and 20 practicum hours), 10 group meeting hours, the EMDRIA Learning Assessment, and have seen at least one client for phases 3-6.

  • Any declined payments must be settled within 3 business days. To receive a certificate of completion, payment must be completed in full.

  • This training may be canceled or postponed 30 days before its date due to under-enrolment or other unforeseen circumstances.

    Training may also be canceled due to presenter illness, natural disaster (a flood, earthquake, tsunami, wildfire, or other major incidents), or other unforeseen circumstances that may arise (e.g. there is an internet outage). Participants will be refunded 100%.

    In the case of the Zoom meeting platform experiencing issues, Elevate EMDR Academy will offer the training sessions using another online meeting platform. Elevate EMDR Academy will provide detailed instructions on how to use the alternate platform should this situation occur.

    Elevate EMDR Academy reserves the right to cancel the EMDR basic training at any time. Should this happen, learners will receive a full refund or a credit/transfer to a later training will be offered. Credit card, bank fees, transaction fees, or processing fees etc. will not be covered by Elevate EMDR Academy.

  • Participants will be supported throughout training to best help them access the materials and live training sessions. For further discussion, please contact info@ElevateEMDR.ca.

    Accommodation

    If you require specific accommodation, please make your request in writing 30 days before the 1st day of training for Part 1.

    Email your request to info@elevateemdr.ca. Elevate EMDR Academy cannot ensure accommodations without adequate prior notification.

    Grievance Policy

    Grievances are only accepted in writing and will be handled within ten business days. Grievances include complaints about course content, speakers, facilities, non-receipt of certificates, and other miscellaneous.

    A social work consultant will be involved in all grievance resolutions for social workers. 

    A Psychology consultant will be involved in all grievance resolutions for Psychologists.

    Please email your grievance to info@elevateemdr.ca.

  • Conflict of interest for this program: There is no known conflict of interest for this program. Elevate EMDR Academy has not received any financial support for this program or its contents and will not receive any financial support before or during this program. Elevate EMDR Academy will disclose any potential conflicts at the beginning of the training.

  • Certificates of Completion for EMDR Basic Training will be issued following the completion, in full, of all requirements.

    • Full attendance at Part 1

    • Full attendance at Part 2

    • Full attendance at Group Meetings (10 hours)

    • Completion of all evaluation forms (e.g., required by EMDRIA and CE companies)

    Completion of the EMDRIA Learning Assessment

    The required evaluation forms and EMDRIA Learning Assessment are provided in the online course portal.

    Certificates of Completion will be issued by email and saved to your individual client portal.