EMDR Training For Therapists
General Training Information
This EMDRIA-approved Basic Training provides mental health professionals with a comprehensive foundation in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. The training includes 40 hours of classroom instruction and 10 hours of virtual consultation, combining didactic learning, demonstrations, discussion, and hands-on practice.
The course emphasizes developing practical clinical skills that can be applied directly to real-world client work. Participants will learn the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model, the eight phases of EMDR therapy, client preparation and stabilization, case conceptualization and treatment planning, and the appropriate use of EMDR with a range of clinical presentations. Through demonstrations and structured practice, participants will have opportunities to develop familiarity and confidence with the procedures and protocols used in EMDR therapy.
The training is designed to give clinicians both a strong theoretical foundation and the practical skills needed to begin incorporating EMDR into their clinical practice. The 10 hours of virtual consultation provide additional support as participants begin applying their training to clinical work and continue developing their competency in EMDR therapy.
Continuing Education: This training provides 50 NBCC CEUs and 36 NASW CEUs.
Dates:
Part 1: January 15-17, 2027
Part 2: April 2-4, 2027
Location: Blue Fox Wellness (4343 Pan American Fwy NE #221, Albuquerque, NM 87107)
Price:
Early Bird Rate (before November 30th): $1,450
Regular Rate: $1,650
EMDR Therapy is a Recognized Effective Treatment for PTSD
Sarah Penn
Director & Therapist
Sarah Penn is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) who has been practicing as a therapist in New Mexico for 15 years. She is the director of Rio Grande EMDR Therapy in Albuquerque, where she specializes in EMDR therapy and the treatment of trauma and related concerns.
Sarah is an EMDRIA-approved EMDR therapist, consultant, and trainer and has trained approximately 600 clinicians in EMDR. She is passionate about EMDR because of the profound healing and meaningful change she has witnessed through years of clinical practice.
As a trainer, Sarah is committed to creating a comfortable, supportive, and engaging learning environment where clinicians can develop a deep understanding of EMDR, build confidence in their practical skills, and develop a genuine appreciation for the power of the modality. She places particular emphasis on helping clinicians understand how to translate the principles and protocols of EMDR into effective, real-world clinical practice.
One of Sarah’s favorite aspects of training is watching clinicians become excited about EMDR as they develop their skills and begin witnessing meaningful changes in their clients. She considers it a privilege to help therapists discover the effectiveness of EMDR and become confident in bringing this powerful approach into their clinical work.
We are so excited to welcome you to your EMDR Training! Please take a moment to review the following welcome letter carefully; it contains important information about training requirements and eligibility.
Hours and CEU’s: EMDR Basic Training includes 20 hours of classroom instruction, 20 hours of practicum, and 10 hours of virtual consultation. Participants must be present for all portions of training. During the 20 hours of practicum, participants will serve as client, therapist, and observer during real EMDR sessions. Participation in each role is an EMDRIA requirement for EMDR Basic Training. The 10 hours of virtual consultation generally take place between parts 1 and 2. Cameras must be on during the 10 hours of virtual consultation.
Trainees must complete all instructional, practicum, and consultation hours within 12 months of starting the training to receive a certificate of completion.
Basic Training is 50 total hours and provides 36 NASW CEUs and 50 NBCC CEUs.
Eligibility: Please also take a moment to ensure your licensure type meets the eligibility requirements for EMDR Basic Training. The list of licensed mental health professionals who are eligible for EMDR training can be found here: https://www.emdria.org/emdr-training/eligibility-requirements-for-emdr-training/
Required Readings: The EMDR International Association requires the following as reading for the Basic Training. However, these readings do not have to be completed before starting the training and do NOT need to be brought with you to the training unless you wish.
1) Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Basic Principles, Protocols, and Procedures, 3rd edition by Francine Shapiro. You can order this required textbook at www.mentorbooks.com or other locations.
2) Go With That Magazine Fall 2020, Volume 25, Issue 3 [EMDR & Racial Trauma]: You can access this material on the Virtual Learning Platform (see below) or at the following web address: (https://www.emdria.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/GWT.2020.Vol_.25.Issue_.3.RacialTrauma.ALL_.pdf)
3) Guidelines for Virtual EMDR Therapy (Spring 2020): You can access this material on the Virtual Learning Platform (see below) or at the following web address: (https://www.emdria.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/virtual_tg_report_for_member.pdf)
Cancellation Policy
Participants may cancel up to 21 days prior to the start of the training to receive a full refund. Cancellations made less than 21 days prior to the start of the training are not eligible for a refund. If a participant is unable to attend, they may transfer their training registration to another eligible clinician, subject to trainer approval. In the event of a humanitarian crisis or other significant extenuating circumstances, trainers will work with participants to identify an alternative option for completing the training within 6 months of the original training dates. EMDR Basic Training must be completed within 12 months of the original training start date.
Equal Access
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits discrimination and ensures equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities. We are committed to providing an accessible and inclusive learning environment and will make reasonable accommodations for participants with disabilities. Please contact us as early as possible regarding any accessibility needs or accommodations so that we can work with you to support your participation in the training.
Grievance Policy
The trainer will review and respond to complaints and grievances in a timely and professional manner should they arise. Participants may contact the trainer by email or phone to report a concern. If a grievance or complaint involves one of the trainers, participants are welcome to contact the other trainer or an assisting consultant directly. The individual receiving the grievance or complaint will acknowledge and respond to the concern within 72 hours or less. Trainers will make reasonable efforts to address and resolve concerns directly and appropriately. Participants may also contact EMDRIA regarding grievances that cannot be resolved through communication with the training team.
If you have questions or special needs, please call or email Sarah Penn (505-304-9431, admin@riograndetherapy.com).