Why EMDR Consultation Matters (and How to Get the Most Out of It)

I still remember the first time I started seeing clients while in EMDR Basic Training. I had 3 notebooks open, sticky notes everywhere, and my manual in my lap. I kept flipping pages and second-guessing myself—but thankfully, my clients trusted me. I was upfront with them that this was new for me (as we all should be when learning a modality!), and that honesty made all the difference.

EMDR can be a challenging field. EMDR can be a very serious field, and at times it can feel rigid or high-stakes. That’s why consultation has been so valuable for me—not just during Basic Training or the Certification process, but as an ongoing way to check in, refine my practice, and grow as a therapist.

Taking notes, reflecting, and learning every step of the way. Even as therapists, we’re all students of the work—and consultation is how we grow with compassion and confidence.

Why Consultation Matters

Integration. We all deserve space to fully understand EMDR—the phases, the protocols, and how to operate within them. And if you’re anything like me, you’ll have millions of questions. Consultation is where those questions belong.

Accountability with Compassion. The first time I watched a recording of myself doing EMDR, I received feedback that was incredibly helpful—feedback that has truly shaped and improved my practice. Consultation helps us stay accountable to fidelity while approaching ourselves with compassion. EMDR is complex, and mistakes are part of learning. Consultation creates space to refine your skills without judgment.

Skill Refinement. Basic Training is only the tip of the iceberg. Once I went through the Certification process and started incorporating things like IFS, future templates, and variations like EMD, my practice completely shifted. But you can’t implement what you don’t know—and consultation helps you discover those missing pieces.

Professional Growth. We all encounter stuck points and challenging clients. No amount of Googling or flipping through the EMDR manual replaces brainstorming with a peer who’s been there. Consultation keeps us growing, ethical, and effective.

Human Connection. Sometimes the most meaningful part of consultation is just hearing: you’re not alone. This work is heavy, and being in a space where you can share, celebrate, and normalize challenges is invaluable.

How to Make the Most of EMDR Consultation

• Bring your questions and cases. Don’t worry about having “perfect” cases—curiosity and honesty are what make consultation powerful.

• Practice self-compassion. Remember: we are all learners. Consultation is a safe space to explore what’s challenging without judgment.

• Integrate feedback thoughtfully. Try new strategies, notice what shifts, and build them into your practice gradually.

• Stay consistent. Consultation is most effective when it’s ongoing, not just when you feel stuck.

• Remember you’re not alone. Even experienced therapists benefit from guidance, perspective, and connection.

  
  

EMDR consultation isn’t just about meeting Certification requirements. It’s about building confidence, refining skills, and creating a sustainable, grounded practice. If you’re seeking consultation, I’d love to support you in the process. Together, we can make EMDR feel more confident, flexible, and effective—for you and your clients.

Looking for EMDR consultation with a certified therapist who understands the nuances of complex trauma? I’m a Certified EMDR Therapist (CIT) offering virtual consultation across the U.S., supporting clinicians at all levels—from Basic Training to Certification. I specialize in complex and relational trauma and working with adult children of emotionally immature parents, integrating Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Somatic Experiencing to deepen your practice. Whether you want to refine your EMDR skills, enhance fidelity, or navigate challenging cases, I provide a collaborative space for accountable, compassionate consultation.