EMDR is a specialized clinical approach that requires formal, supervised training for client safety and for maximum treatment effect. This page provides information about making a referral to a therapist trained in EMDR.

For maximum benefit and safety for your client, make sure that you only refer to EMDR practitioners with formal, supervised training approved by the EMDR International Association (EMDRIA). For more information on how to identify an appropriate EMDR-trained therapist for referral, see Finding an EMDR-trained therapist. You might consider referring a client for specialized EMDR treatment in the following cases:

• when a past trauma or loss is particularly upsetting to the client
• when trauma or loss is the primary source of the client's problems
• when the client is "stuck" and can't get over something
• when there is a treatment impasse

1. Consult

   The consult referral is a way to bring in outside help in the context of your ongoing treatment. You and your client would contract with the EMDR provider for a limited number of sessions to address a specific issue, while you continue as the primary therapist. This type of referral works best when there can be a relatively discrete focus (e.g., a single trauma or loss), thus a reasonable expectation that the referral goals can be accomplished quickly.

2. Full Referral

   A full referral might make more sense if EMDR is likely to be the featured method relative to the overall treatment - for example, in a clear trauma or loss case. Full referrals are best when you have not already established a strong relationship with your client. Although EMDR can enhance speed and effectiveness of treatment, a full referral is not ideal for clients already engaged with a therapist with whom they are making progress. The established therapy relationship is very important, especially with multiply traumatized clients. Often the best solution is to learn how to do EMDR yourself.