EMDR Basic Training

The Inspired EMDR Basic Training in grounded in fidelity to Dr. Francine Shapiro’s foundational model while promoting applied proficiency… skillfully, thoroughly and effectively.

EMDR Therapy is a standardized treatment that is used world-wide. It is an evidence-based psychotherapy not only for the treatment of PTSD and trauma-related problems, but also for a wide range of mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, phobias, low self-esteem, traumatic grief, addictions and compulsions, somatic responses related to illness and injury, and relationship difficulties.

The training is based on the foundational teachings of the originator of EMDR therapy, Francine Shapiro, PhD. Participants will understand and practice core EMDR Therapy skills and procedures and will have the ability to expand these skills for use with a wide range of clinical presentations and situations.

What distinguishes this training from others?

A Comprehensive, Personalized Approach:

Inspired EMDR’s training is thoughtfully designed to be personalized, comprehensive, and highly practical, so you can begin applying your new skills in your clinical work with confidence right away, You’ll benefit from individualized instruction and a low trainer-to-trainee ratio. With more time and attention tailored to you, you will more easily gain early confidence in practice.

Directly Trained in Francine Shapiro’s Model:

This approach is guided by Cheryl Kenn, who was trained as a trainer in Francine Shapiro’s original model by Deany Laliotis, the former Director of Training at the EMDR Institute who was authorized by Dr. Shapiro. As a trainer, Cheryl remains deeply committed to honoring Dr. Shapiro’s original vision.

Continuity, Integration of Learning and Practice:

Cheryl carefully monitors all aspects of the training, providing continuous support and seamless integration across instruction, consultation, and practice. This personalized approach, with close supervision, supports how you apply EMDR in your real-life clinical work. This seamless integration of learning, practice, and real-client application helps you build a strong, confident foundation in EMDR therapy.

Thoughtful Pacing for Deep Learning and Minimal Disruption:

Unlike standard training formats, this training consists of four two-day sessions spread across the program. This paced structure aligns with established learning theory, which emphasizes that combining a layered curriculum with spaced repetition is the most effective strategy for mastering complex material. With minimal disruption to your schedule, you can gradually introduce EMDR into your practice at a comfortable rhythm, building your skills cumulatively.

More Time to Practice:

Throughout the training, you will participate in 24 hands-on practice sessions, more than in standard formats, rotating through the roles of therapist, client, and observer. The extended schedule also gives you more time to assimilate new concepts in-between the four training Parts. This combination of ample in-training practice and real-world application helps you build stronger skills, smoother confidence, and better long-term mastery of EMDR therapy.

Rich Learning Resources:

You will benefit from a wide range of high-quality learning materials designed to support your understanding and mastery of EMDR therapy. The training features clear and engaging video demonstrations, live demonstrations, and well-organized supplemental resources. Key concepts are presented in an easy-to-understand manner, with purposeful focus on the core EMDR principles throughout the program to reinforce learning, ensuring you gain both clarity and confidence in applying EMDR techniques.

Fully inclusive. All costs covered:

All consultation is embedded in the training days and is covered in the tuition. You will not need to arrange or pay for outside consultation, removing common barriers and allowing you to focus fully on developing your skills.

• 8 days of training in four 2-day parts across 3 months
• 51.5 total hours. This course exceeds the approved standards of EMDRIA (EMDR International Association) .
• 20 hrs. of didactic instruction 
• 21.5 hrs. of small-group supervised practice
• 10 hours of required consultation embedded in the training and included in the tuition. 
• Extensive videos of EMDR sessions, additional video lectures, demonstrations,
• Participation in 24 sessions of live practice sessions (more than standard EMDR trainings) build a strong foundation in acquiring skill and experience.
• Scripts, handouts and all materials for the training, will be made available to you through an LMS.
• 41.5 CEs are awarded
• The In-Person training is hybrid. Days 6, 7, 8 OR Days 7, 8  are on Zoom to address how to apply EMDR therapy through telehealth.

These outcomes are designed to support you in providing thoughtful care and a solid grasp the EMDR model.

• Gain a solid foundation in EMDR as a complete psychotherapy approach through didactic teaching and hands-on practice.
• Learn the eight phases of EMDR and apply them with confidence and procedural integrity.
• Develop strong case conceptualization skills grounded in the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model.
• Receive personalized guidance to effectively integrate EMDR into your clinical practice alongside psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and systemic approaches.
• Confidently apply EMDR and the AIP model to a wide range of clinical issues, including acute trauma, recent traumatic events, PTSD, complex trauma, addictions, phobias, somatic symptoms, traumatic grief, and clients such as first responders and those exposed to combat trauma.
• Learn to screen for and recognize dissociation and become aware how to identify if and when modifications to the EMDR procedures may be necessary during assessment, preparation, and reprocessing phases.
• Strengthen clinical decision-making, using clear markers within culturally responsive frameworks attentive to race, culture, gender identity, and systemic factors.

Eligibility Requirements: EMDRIA Guidelines determine who can attend. 

Mental health professional licensed for independent practice, or who are on a licensing track under the supervision of a licensed supervisor.

• Social Workers
• Psychologists
• Mental Health Counselors
• Marriage and Family Therapists
• Psychiatrists
• Psychiatric APRNs 
• Pre-Licensed Clinicians with Masters Degrees pursuing licensure with their state board, under the guidance of a clinical supervisor, who will submit a letter of status confirmation.
• Interns/Graduate students who have completed their core coursework (2nd year students) and are in a practice setting under the guidance of a clinical supervisor, who will submit a letter of status confirmation.
• Individuals who only hold a chemical dependency or substance abuse license are not eligible.
• Completion Requirements: Completing all days in the 8 day training, comprised of lecture, practice and consultation
• (1) Reading EMDR: Basic Principles, Protocols and Procedures (Shapiro 2017) and additional articles.
• (2) Completion of a learning assessment
• (3) Attendance at all sessions.  Partial credit is not given.