I realize that the search for a therapist or other mental health resources can be quite daunting, especially if you or someone you love is in need of immediate support. It is one of my passions to provide support to anyone in need who requests my insights, with the hope that it makes the path to finding the best resources for your needs easier.
As a Certified EMDR Therapist, an Approved Consultant with EMDRIA, and active solopreneur, I am not always available to speak one on one to everyone who seeks my services, guidance or support, even though I’d love to!
My goal with this post is to share my insights, resources, and referral networks with anyone who needs them when they need it. As my insights and resources evolve I will update the content below.
EMDR Therapy Referrals
The most common request for referrals I receive is for EMDR therapists throughout the country and around the world. In the USA, I highly recommend starting your search for an experienced EMDR therapist via the EMDRIA therapist finder.
I realize finding a therapist can seem overwhelming when you begin your search, especially if you are in urgent need. Fortunately, beginning your search with a professional organization can support you in finding a qualified clinician.
EMDRIA has paved the way for EMDR therapists to increase their competence and stay up-to-date on professional and advanced training, as well as new research and standards of care.
Many therapists have been trained in EMDR therapy since the 1980s, and many more are trained every year. I feel it’s important for people seeking EMDR therapy to be aware of the different levels of competency when they are seeking out an EMDR therapist so you are making an educated choice for your needs.
Here is a brief explainer of credentialing in EMDR therapy with EMDRIA:
EMDR Basic Training: Completion of an EMDRIA Approved Basic Training includes 50 hours of lecture, practicum, and consultation with a trainer. I recommend that you verify that your therapist’s training was indeed through an EMDRIA Approved trainer, and that they have completed the process.
EMDR Certified Therapist: A Certified EMDR Therapist has successfully completed Basic EMDR training and holds a license to practice psychotherapy. They have also completed a minimum of 20 hours of consultation with an EMDRIA Consultant, advanced training in EMDR, and have demonstrated core competency practicing EMDR therapy and knowledge of the theoretical approach and case conceptualization within their consultation.
EMDR Consultant-in-Training: A consultant in training is Certified EMDR Therapist who is receiving consultation from an Approved Consultant with EMDRIA to provide consultation to colleagues seeking certification as an EMDR therapist.
EMDR Approved Consultant: An EMDR Approved Consultant provides consultation to EMDR therapists seeking guidance, support and learning to expand their skills. They also provide consultation to EMDR therapists seeking Certification or Consultant-In-Training.
EMDR Trainer is an essential role in the EMDR community as they provide basic training to therapists, and advanced training to colleagues across the EMDR spectrum of learning.. They go through a complete training program to help them aid future EMDR therapists with their skills and expertise through consultations, lectures, and practice.
Here are some considerations for your search for an EMDR therapist:
EMDR therapy is often misunderstood to be a tool or a stand alone intervention. When in fact, EMDR therapy is a comprehensive approach to therapeutic healing. While there are tools and interventions within the EMDR model, I do not recommend the use of EMDR without a therapist that has competency in conceptualizing the use of EMDR from the comprehensive theoretical perspective.
What to look for:
Many therapists take EMDR basic training, and learn standard protocol, but do not continue their learning and consultation in the theoretical approach to practice EMDR therapy competently, especially with more complex trauma experiences and needs. Therapists may list that they are EMDR trained on their website or other marketing sites, but that does not mean they are competent to provide EMDR therapy, even if they are a fantastic therapist.
I always recommend that potential clients who are seeking EMDR therapy ask therapists about their training, experience and ongoing learning in EMDR therapy and trauma-informed care.
I also recommend working with an EMDR therapist who is Certified or above, or a EMDR therapist with basic training who is actively seeking consultation and/or supervision in EMDR therapy with a more experienced EMDR therapist or EMDRIA Approved Consultant
For more information on EMDR therapy you can review my webpage here and for more expanded information go to EMDRIA.org.
Tips For Finding the Right Clinician
Finding a clinician who has the right type of training, education, skills and experience for your needs is essential.
Here are some tips from FAQ I receive when providing referrals:
Licensed vs. Non-Licensed Therapist
Working with a professional that’s licensed ensures they have graduate-level training for the treatment of behavioral, mental, and emotional issues, they have provided care under supervision for thousands of hours and passed their state exams for licensure, and maintain continuing education required by the state. Experience as a clinician is a valuable asset, as well as ongoing and advanced training.
Working with a pre-licensed therapist gives you the opportunity to work with someone who has recent, up-to-day clincial training and is working under the supervision of a licensed clinician. New therapists are often eager, energized, fresh and motivated to give you the best care possible. You also get the benefit of their skills and the skills of their supervisors guiding them.
State to State Licensure:
You must physically be in the state your therapist is licensed at the time of service.
Your therapist can be anywhere in the world at the time of service, and you can live in another state or country, but at the moment your therapist is providing you service, you must be in the state of their licensure.
Generalists vs. Specialists
If you have a special need (ex. Couples therapy, trauma care, etc.) it’s best to go to someone who has advanced training and experience in that area of speciality rather than someone that sees people of all ages for many types of needs.
A specialist is someone who has in-depth knowledge, experience and advanced training in a specific area of expertise.
A generalist has a wide range of skills with knowledge in a lot of areas but does not specialize in a specific treatment area or approach.
Coach / Mentor:
There are many fantastic coaches and mentors providing services and support for all types of needs.
And, some therapists also serve as coaches and mentors outside of their therapy practices and psychotherapy roles.
When considering if you should seek the services of a coach or a licensed therapist, the first and most important consideration is whether your need for support is related to mental health. If you are seeking support for depression, anxiety, trauma, or any other mental health condition, please seek care from a licensed therapist or a pre-licensed therapist under supervision of a licensed therapist.
Anyone can start a business as a “coach” with no prior training or experience, or regulatory oversight, so please be sure to do your research.
If you are working with a great coach, but find your work together is moving in the direction of therapy for mental health, find yourself a therapist for the mental health needs and use time with your coach in their area of expertise.
What You Should Be Asking Your Potential Therapist
When searching for a new therapist, it’s important to ask questions to ensure you are the right fit. I’ve highlighted a few important questions to ask a potential therapist below:
How long have you been practicing therapy, what licenses / certifications do you have that are applicable to the services you offer?
What is your payment and session structure?
Who is your ideal client and have you worked with someone with similar circumstances to mine?
Do you feel like my needs are a good fit for your offerings?
What’s your process for evaluating a client’s goals, needs and progress?
Are you able to refer other specialists to help support me on my healing journey?
Do you communicate with your patients outside of scheduled sessions?
Do you have availability that works with my schedule?
Something to keep in mind as well, even if your therapist is newer or does not have extensive experience in the area you’re seeking therapy in, if they are partnered with a seasoned EMDR clinician for consultations, it still may be a good choice!
Couples Therapy
If you’re seeking couples therapy with your partner, I highly recommend Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Gottman therapists.
Any licensed therapist can provide couples therapy, but I strongly suggest seeking care with a therapist who has advanced training. I often hear complaints about the cost of seeking therapy with a specialist, especially couples therapists. My reflection in response is that the value of good therapy is immeasurable for a relationship and one’s life. A therapist that specializes has invested extensively in their training and experience, and they are doing hard work day in and day out. Quality therapy that heals a relationship or enables a couple to separate amicably is a lot less expensive than a divorce or a contentious break up for most.
Bereavement & Suicide Groups
If you find yourself needing bereavement counseling, I recommend exploring offerings through local hospice agencies, especially if your loved one was under their care. If your loved one received hospice care, the agency may provide bereavement services to family members before and after the passing of a loved one.
In addition to counseling, joining a bereavement group or suicide-loss support group can be helpful after losing a loved one. Unfortunately, sometimes they can lead to unnecessary exposure to secondary trauma if trauma stories are being told in detail. If you’re finding support groups are not the right fit for your needs at this time, it’s best to reach out to a therapist who specializes in your area of need.
What if I’m Using My Insurance?
If you’re looking to use your insurance, it’s best to call them directly and request a list of licensed therapists that participate within your plan that specialize in the area of need you are seeking care for (i.e.: Certified EMDR Therapists).
Utilizing Telehealth
If you’re having trouble finding highly qualified therapists licensed in your state, I encourage you to give telehealth a try. It can greatly expand your access to availability therapists and provide you with more confidentiality if you live in a smaller area and would prefer not to run into your therapist in personal realms. I was really anti-telehealth prior to COVID-19, but after using it daily during the pandemic I came to love it and find it has many benefits. Here’s my blog on all the reasons I love telehealth.
As always, if you have any additional questions in regards to next steps in your care, I’d be more than happy to help.
In solidarity,