So you’ve decided to train in EMDR and attend an EMDR Training —congratulations! This powerful trauma therapy can transform not only your clients’ healing journeys but also your own clinical work.
But now comes the question many therapists stumble over: “Which EMDR training should I choose?” Access our free training session to find out more about Mindsync EMDR Training here.
In the UK there are a number of different options—virtual or in-person, there are trainers that specialise in small groups, others who run with big groups. In this post, we’ll break down the key factors to consider and the exact questions to ask before enrolling.
You can find out more about what’s included in Mindsync EMDR Training here
First, do look for a Europe Accredited EMDR Training
Before anything else, make sure the program you’re considering is approved by the EMDR Association in the UK.
This will usually include:
- At least 24 hours of teaching
- 18 hours of supervised practicum
- 10 hours of consultation/clinical supervision
You can check the Accredited training courses on The EMDR Association UK here
Virtual vs. In-Person: Which Format Fits You?
Virtual Training
Pros:
- Flexible location
- No travel costs
- Great for parents or therapists with demanding schedules
Cons:
- More screen fatigue
- Some say online practicums feel less embodied or emotionally connected
- Easy to drift off, check email, look on your phone and lose attention (I’ve found doodling or crocheting helpful to keep me focused!)
In-Person Training
Pros:
- Richer group energy with being in the room together.
- Easier for some to stay focused during practice and teaching.
- More opportunity to build networks and connect with peers and the training team, especially more informal contact during break times.
Cons:
- May involve travel and accommodation costs
- Less flexible if you need to reschedule
Questions to ask yourself:
- Do I learn better in a hands-on environment?
- Is travel realistic for me?
- Do I have a quiet, private space for online practicum?
Schedule, Pacing & Format
In the UK most training is offered for between 7 – 8 days. Most training companies offer the training in either 3 or 4 parts. Some trainers offer 3 days then 2 days followed by a further 2 days. Other trainers like us at Mindsync EMDR Training offer a 3 day training then a 1 day with supervision followed by a 3 day and finishing with a 4 hour supervision session.
Questions to ask:
- How much do I want to practice between sessions?
- Is there flexibility if I need to miss a date?
- What’s covered in each Part
Also consider:
- Are practicum groups small enough for meaningful practice?
- Will I be working with real clinical scenarios, not just theory?
Price & Value: Not Just the Cost
Look at:
- What’s included (supervision? materials?)
- Size of practicum groups
- Typical size of whole training group
- Trainer’s trauma experience and style,.
- Access to ongoing support or community after training
Final Checklist: Questions to Ask Any EMDR Training Provider
- Is this training EMDR Europe – accredited?
- Is the training virtual, in-person, or hybrid?
- What’s included in the fee (consultation, materials)?
- How big are practicum groups?
- Who will be providing the supervision —and how are they selected?
- What’s the cancellation/refund policy?
- What are the specialist interests of the training team?
Choosing a Program that Supports Your Growth
There’s no one “best” EMDR training—only the best fit for you. Your learning style, clinical goals, time capacity, and budget all matter. Don’t be afraid to reach out to trainers directly and ask these questions.
The right training will not only teach you a technique, but also support your growth as a trauma-informed, ethical, and empowered clinician.
Who are we at Mindsync EMDR Training
Caroline van Diest – our Senior trainer. Having started her career as a learning disabilities nurse in the NHS, she trained initially in CBT before starting her EMDR journey. Caroline has worked for many years delivering EMDR training for therapists. She is the co-founder of Mindsync EMDR Training. She is a dynamic trainer, with an interest in storytelling. Caroline likes our delegates to have a clear understanding of EMDR. She will use a lot of clinical examples and story telling in her teaching. There is never a dull moment when Caroline is teaching!
Caroline has a special interest in working with neurodiversity, when she is not delivering training Caroline sees clients for 1-1 work as well as running many supervision sessions and fitting in the odd pottery class!
Dr Hannah Bryan – is our Facilitator and trainee Trainer. She started her career in the NHS as a Clinical Psychologist. Hannah worked in secondary mental health services. She started her EMDR journey in 2005 and has seen the positive impact EMDR has on clients where other types of therapy seemed very slow going.
She is the co-founder of Mindsync EMDR training. Hannah has worked as a training Facilitator since 2019 and is really passionate about supporting delegates to grow their confidence and skill in EMDR.Hannah has a special interest in using EMDR within a coaching framework, she also sees clients struggling with their mental health due to their past experiences as well as providing supervision in EMDR.