EMDR Therapy Basic Training
EMDR Therapy is a specialised, evidence-based therapy that requires structured training and supervised practice to ensure both clinical effectiveness and client safety. A strong foundation in clinical knowledge, together with relevant clinical experience, is essential for the appropriate and responsible application of EMDR Therapy in practice. These criteria ensure that participants are appropriately prepared to apply EMDR Therapy safely, ethically, and effectively in clinical practice.
Eligibility Requirements for Weekend 1 and Weekend 2 Training
Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- Academic Qualifications
Applicants should hold either:
- A 4 year Bachelor’s degree in psychology, counselling or social work; or
- A 2 year Master’s degree in psychiatry, psychology, counselling, psychotherapy or social work
- Clinical Experience
Applicants must meet one of the following:
- A minimum of 2 years of full-time supervised clinical experience obtained after completion of the relevant Bachelor’s or Master’s degree; or
- Current professional membership or registration with:
- Registered Psychologist or Full Member, Singapore Psychological Society (SPS)
- Registered Social Worker or Ordinary Member, Singapore Association of Social Workers (SASW)
- Registered Counsellor or Clinical Member, Singapore Association for Counselling (SAC)
- Current Clinical Practice
Applicants are required to be actively engaged in clinical work. As EMDR Therapy training includes supervision and practical application, participants must have access to clinical cases in order to meet training requirements.
Required Supporting Documentation
All applicants must submit the following documents at the point of registration:
- Full academic transcript (Bachelor’s or Master’s degree)
- Letter of accreditation or signed statement from clinical supervisor confirming a minimum of 2 years of supervised clinical experience obtained after completion of a
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- Bachelor’s degree in psychology, counselling or social work; or
- Master’s degree in psychiatry, psychology, counselling, psychotherapy or social work
- A letter from the current employer stating job title, clinical roles and responsibilities
Incomplete applications may not be processed.
Recommended Prior Knowledge
Applicants are strongly encouraged to have a good understanding of trauma and its psychological impact, as well as competency in emotional regulation strategies. This will support the effective integration of EMDR Therapy into clinical practice following completion of the training.
Additional Requirements for Weekend 2 (Part 2) Training
To enrol in Weekend 2 Training, in addition to the above requirements, applicants must:
- Have completed EMDR Therapy Basic Training Weekend 1 (Part 1) within the preceding 3 years
- Have completed 5 hours of supervision with an approved EMDR consultant
- Have completed all supervision hours at least one month prior to the commencement of Weekend 2 Training
Applicants Residing Outside Singapore
Applicants based outside Singapore are responsible for confirming with their local EMDR association and relevant licensing or regulatory bodies that:
- They meet eligibility criteria to undertake EMDR Therapy Basic Training (e.g. where licensure as a mental health practitioner is required), and
- The EMDR Basic Training provided is recognised by the relevant professional, regulatory, or licensing bodies in their country for the purposes of accreditation and/or clinical practice
Applicants should only proceed if both conditions are satisfied.
Important Notes
All requirements may be reviewed for each training intake to reflect changing national needs, as well as relevant regional and global developments.
- EMDR Therapy Basic Training organised by EMDR Singapore:
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- Adheres to the training curriculum and structure developed by the EMDR Institute, USA
- Is recognised by EMDR Asia and the EMDR Institute
- EMDR Singapore recognises training conducted by accredited EMDR Institute and EMDR Asia trainers.