FAQ

Finding a qualified EMDR therapist is essential to ensure you receive proper and effective treatment. It is crucial that the therapist is accredited by your National EMDR Association that is connected and member of the regional/continental EMDR association, such as EMDR Europe. It is legitimate and important that you ask your therapist about the background of his/her training as there are a number of untrustworthy so called EMDR Therapists who did not undergo an EMDR Europe accredited training. Check whether they carry the title EMDR Europe Accredited Practitioner and use the EMDR Europe logo.

EMDR therapy operates through a systematic engagement with traumatic memories and distressing life experiences across eight crucial phases. Following Francine Shapiro's Adaptive Information Processing model (AIP)  each phase plays a distinct role in addressing the incomplete processing of these memories. Techniques such as guided eye movements or other dual attention stimulation are integrated into pivotal phases like Desensitization and Installation, aiming to mitigate the emotional impact of pathogenic memories and fortify the patient´s inner adaptive coping mechanisms. By restructuring how these memories are encoded and stored in the brain, EMDR facilitates lasting mental health improvements, offering profound healing and resilience within the structured framework of the 8 phases of EMDR Therapy.

Insight into the typical duration of EMDR therapy treatment, including the number of sessions often required for optimal results.

The number of sessions will depend on the type of problem and its severity. EMDR therapy is recognized by research and clinical experience as a therapy that is usually shorter and with more profound effect than other types of therapy. You are encouraged to discuss the duration of your EMDR therapy with your therapist.

EMDR therapy coverage by insurance can vary depending on the country you are in and the specific medical system in your country. It's important to check with your therapist or your insurance provider to determine if EMDR therapy is covered under your plan.

EMDR therapy is recognized as an effective treatment for trauma, PTSD, and depression. It has gained validation from major health organizations including the American Psychological Association and the World Health Organization and different national organizations or institutions providing guidelines in mental health (e.g. NICE guidelines in the United Kingdom). Research highlights its success in alleviating symptoms and enhancing emotional stability. The therapy's structured method helps in reprocessing pathogenic memories, fostering better psychological resilience. Notably, improvements in depression and other widespread mental disorders like phobia can be observed after just a few therapy sessions, underlining its efficacy and value in therapeutic settings.

Any contraindications or considerations for individuals considering EMDR therapy, such as specific mental health conditions or medical concerns.

There is research focusing on EMDR therapy for a large spectrum of psychological disorders. Highly complex cases may need more preparation and stabilization than less complex cases before starting the phases of reprocessing. Cases of total contraindications are rather seldom. You should discuss such issues with your EMDR therapist who starts by doing a proper history taking and case conceptualization before addressing the issue of indication and choice of target for reprocessing with EMDR.

What clients can expect during an EMDR therapy session, including the phases of treatment and the role of the therapist.

EMDR Europe is the leading association representing over 40 national associations across Europe. It has been instrumental in advancing EMDR therapy in Europe over the past 25 years. It has cultivated a supportive community, conducted extensive research, and provided invaluable relief for individuals grappling with trauma and various mental health challenges.

Moreover, EMDR Europe has significantly contributed to raising awareness and recognition of EMDR therapy worldwide. Additionally, it actively supports projects and awards research grants annually, furthering its commitment to enhancing the accessibility and understanding of EMDR therapy.

The EMDR Europe Logo (insert here) stands for this tradition and quality and should be used by all the EMDR Europe Accredited Practitioners, EMDR Europe Accredited Consultants and EMDR Europe Accredited Trainers. Besides the general accreditation each practitioner, consultant and trainer must undergo a re-accreditation process every 5 years.

EMDR therapy, or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy, is a revolutionary psychotherapy approach that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the results of disturbing life experiences. This therapy helps individuals process traumatic or more general pathogenic memories, changing the way these memories are stored in the brain and assisting them in developing healthier coping mechanisms.

To learn more about how EMDR therapy works and its benefits, visit our page: 
What is EMDR?

If you are a professional psychotherapist looking to learn more about EMDR therapy and how to get certified, you can find comprehensive information on the training of EMDR and on the certification process at the following link:
Why use EMDR therapy in your practice/Advantages of EMDR therapy for your Practice?  And on the website of your country´s National EMDR Association

EMDR can benefit a wide range of individuals who have experienced trauma or other distressing life experiences. This includes men, women children and adolescents struggling with for example post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or complex PTSD,  depression, after birth trauma stress, grief and other psychological issues emerging from disturbing events. Essentially, anyone who has unresolved trauma or distressing memories that impact their daily quality of life and emotional well-being can potentially benefit from EMDR therapy.