Sonoma Psychotherapy Training Institute

EMDRIA and EMDR Europe approved training in EMDR therapy


Questions about EMDR training?

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Basic Training

EMDR Training for Clinicians

Sonoma Psychotherapy Training Institute offers complete basic training in EMDR therapy, including

  • All ten hours of required consultation
  • Four, two-day training weekend sessions
  • Spread over three months
  • All-inclusive, affordable fee
Our Basic Training in EMDR is approved by the EMDR International Association and EMDR Europe.
Graduates are eligible to become EMDRIA members and to pursue EMDRIA Certification.


EMDR Training, EMDR Therapy, and Telehealth
Both EMDR training and EMDR therapy are now successfully being delivered remotely.

Zoom-based training
All our basic EMDR training programs since 2020 have been held via Zoom. We have EMDR International Association and EMDR Europe approval to offer our future EMDR training programs via Zoom.

Hampton Inn & Suites Oakland Airport-Alameda

Supportive learning - unlimited access to lecture videos online
All participants have the option to review video segments from the lecture portion of the training. These 43 video segments vary from 7 minutes to 45 minutes in duration. Using a private access link and a security code, registered participants can stream these pre-recorded videos on a smartphone, tablet or computer.


Pre-licensed and graduate students are eligible to enroll
We strongly support pre-licensed clinicians enrolling in our accredited training in EMDR therapy. In fact, we offer a significantly reduced rate to pre-licensed clinicians. All pre-licensed clinicians, both pre-grads and graduates can enroll in the SonomaPTI EMDR training program. On our registration page look for the links to and read our Pre-Licensed Applicant Instructions and to the Student Eligibility and Discount form.


Online Content Management System
We use Canvas, an online platform, for training materials, discussion boards, Zoom links, and clinical practice resources. In line with EMDR International Association requirements, participants must pass learning assessments, with up to three attempts allowed. These tests serve as study guides with page references from required textbooks and the participant manual, supporting our EMDR training programs.


Diversity and Inclusion

Diversity Statement
This is an equal opportunity training that offers you a supportive and inclusive space to learn. Everyone, no matter their age, gender, sexual orientation, or nationality can be successful in this course. People like you are joining from all over the world and we value this diversity. If you face economic barriers to enrolling, please contact us about a diversity scholarship.

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EMDRIA and EMDR Europe Approved Basic Training in EMDR - Four Part Training Schedule - Meeting via Zoom

Times
Saturdays and Sundays
8:30 AM to 5:30 PM Pacific Time
(San Francisco)

Confirm time in your time zone

Next Training
Spring 2025 Dates:
March 1 and 2, 2025
April 5 and 6, 2025
May 3 and 4, 2025
June 7 and 8, 2025

Registration is Open

Register by February 3, 2025 to receive an early registration discount.

Last day to register is February 25, 2025.

Instructor
Andrew M. Leeds, Ph.D.
EMDRIA Approved Trainer and Consultant

Future Training
Fall 2025 Dates:
September 6 and 7, 2025
October 4 and 5, 2025
November 1 and 2, 2025
December 6 and 7, 2025

Current Training
Fall 2024 Dates:
September 7 and 8, 2024
October 5 and 6, 2024
November 2 and 3, 2024
December 7 and 8, 2024

Meeting via Zoom

Hampton Inn & Suites Oakland Airport-Alameda

We will be meeting via Zoom for all training modules.

We will provide detailed guidance and preparation for all registered participants to assure a successful training experience.


Activity Overview

Four, two-day training modules are spread over a twelve-week period.
Modules are three to four weeks apart to provide time to practice new skills and study course readings.

There are focused periods of lecture, practice and consultation.
Morning and afternoon breaks are 15 minutes. Lunch breaks are 75 minutes.

Weekend 1

Day 1

Lecture 4.25 hours
Practice 3.0 hours

Day 2

Lecture 4.25 hours
Practice 3.0 hours

Weekend 2

Day 3

Consultation 1.5 hours
Lecture 3.0 hours
Practice 2.75 hours

Day 4

Consultation 1.5 hours
Lecture 3.0 hours
Practice 2.75 hours

Weekend 3

Day 5

Consultation 1.5 hours
Lecture 3.0 hours
Practice 2.75 hours

Day 6

Consultation 1.5 hours
Lecture 3.0 hours
Practice 2.75 hours

Weekend 4

Day 7

Consultation 1.5 hours
Lecture 3.0 hours
Practice 2.75 hours

Day 8

Consultation 1.5 hours
Lecture 2.0 hours
Practice 2.25 hours
Consultation 1.5 hours

8 Day Total

10.5 Hours Consultation
25.5 Hours Lecture
22 Hours Practice

Daily Schedule

Module 1: Day 1 and Day 2
Both days
Lecture 8:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Practice 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Lunch 12:30 PM - 1:45 PM
Lecture 1:45 PM - 3:45 PM
Practice 3:45 PM - 5:30 PM

Module 2: Day 3 and Day 4
Both days
Consultation 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM
Lecture 10:15 AM - 12:30 PM
Lunch 12:30 PM - 1:45 PM
Lecture 1:45 PM - 2:30 PM
Practice 2:30 PM - 5:30 PM

Module 3: Day 5 and Day 6
Both days
Consultation 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM
Lecture 10:15 AM - 12:30 PM
Lunch 12:30 PM - 1:45 PM
Lecture 1:45 PM - 2:30 PM
Practice 2:30 PM - 5:30 PM

Module 4: Day 7 and Day 8
(different schedule each day)

Day 7
Consultation 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM
Lecture 10:15 AM - 12:30 PM
Lunch 12:30 PM - 1:45 PM
Lecture 1:45 PM - 2:30 PM
Practice 2:30 PM - 5:30 PM

Day 8
Consultation 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM
Lecture 10:15 - 12:15 PM
Lunch 12:15 - 1:30 PM
Practice 1:30 PM - 3:45 PM
Consultation 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM

program ends

Listed times are Pacific Time Zone
Check your time zone against San Francisco at
World Clock Meeting Planner


  • Continuing Education Credits

    BBS: The California Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS) now recognizes CPA continuing education credit for license renewal for LCSWs, LPCs, and MFTs. For California, the course meets the qualifications for 47.5 hours of continuing education credit for LPCs, MFT's and LCSW's as required by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. Andrew M. Leeds, Ph.D. and Sonoma Psychotherapy Training Institute maintain responsibility for this program and its content. CPA Provider # SON012.

    NBCC: 47.5 clock hours. Andrew M. Leeds has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 6093. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. Andrew M. Leeds is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.

    NBCC Logo

    CPA Accredited: Sonoma Psychotherapy Training Institute is approved by the California Psychological Association (CPA) to provide continuing professional education for psychologists. The California Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS) recognizes CPA continuing education credit for license renewal for LCSWs and MFTs. Sonoma Psychotherapy Training Institute maintains responsibility for this program and its contents. 47.5 hours of continuing education credit for California licensed psychologists.

  • Attendance

    You must attend all training days and actively participate in all supervised practice exercises and group consultation sessions in order to earn CE credits and receive documentation of completion for this training.

    Those who attend this workshop in full and complete all the appropriate evaluation forms will receive CE credits.

    Those arriving more than 15 minutes after the start time or leaving more than 15 minutes before the training is completed will not receive CE credits.

    To understand your options to complete the training should you elect to withdraw after partially completing the training, you are invited to read the Transfer Agreement on the Registration Forms page.

  • Eligibility

    Licensed
    To be accepted for the SPTI basic training in EMDR therapy program you must be licensed for independent practice as a mental health clinician or meet alternate EMDR International Association eligibility criteria.

    Prelicensed
    Graduate students, post-graduate pre-licensed clinicians, and non licensed clinicians must submit additional documentation with their application. See the “Non Licensed Applicant Instructions” on the Registration Forms page.

    Alternate Eligibility
    Clinicians who have completed or who are enrolled in a program in Art Therapy or Drug and Alcohol Counseling must contact EMDRIA about their program in order to determine their eligibility. If EMDRIA approves your education and licensure status, please submit approval documentation from EMDRIA with your application.

    Clinicians working in the US Department of Veterans Affairs and other federal agencies
    Andrew M. Leeds, Ph.D. (Sonoma Psychotherapy Training Institute) is registered and active in Central Contractor Registration (CCR). We are happy to cooperate with the administrative procedures required to obtain vendor approval and payment of tuition. Check with VA Employee Education Service (EES) for how to enroll.

  • Learning Objectives

    Participants will describe key principles of the Adaptive Information Processing Model and the elements of Shapiro’s (2018) and Leeds’s (2016) models of maladaptive memory networks.

    Participants will determine whether clients meet standardized criteria for readiness for EMDR reprocessing or need extended preparation.

    Participants will use standardized assessment tools or structured interviews to screen all prospective clients for dissociative disorders before using any bilateral stimulation procedures.

    Participants will describe a framework for case conceptualization and will organize and implement a planned sequence of targets for EMDR reprocessing.

    Participants will describe the purpose and carry out with adequate fidelity each of the steps in the Assessment Phase (Three) and the Reprocessing Phases (Four, Five and Six) of the standard EMDR procedural steps.

    Participants will provide effective stabilization and manualized EMDR therapy to individuals suffering from civilian and combat PTSD, panic attacks and specific phobias of traumatic origin.

    Participants will recognize when to offer an interweave selected from the themes of Responsibility, Safety and Choice and when to “stay out of the way.”


Curriculum Overview

  • Day 1

    I. The Foundations Of Working With Trauma And Dissociation.

    • An overview of psychotraumatology.
    • An overview of the model Structural Dissociation.
    • Differential diagnosis and standardized assessment tools for trauma related disorders.
    • Phase oriented model of treatment for PTSD and Complex PTSD.
    • Methods of stabilization.
    II. Standardized assessment of symptoms.
    III. Standardized assessment of dissociative symptoms and disorders.
    IV. History and Overview of EMDR.
    V. Overview of the eight phases of EMDR.
    VI. Model, Method and Mechanism.
    • Model – Adaptive Information Processing (AIP).
    • Method – Standard EMDR Protocol for PTSD.
    • Possible mechanisms underlying the empirically supported treatment effects of EMDR.
    VII. How to conduct EMDR therapy via teletherapy.

  • Day 2

    I. Case formulation -- Attachment theory as a foundation for EMDR treatment planning.
    II. Principles and approaches to history taking in ASD, PTSD, Complex PTSD and DDNOS/DID.
    III. Assessing Readiness for Reprocessing.
    IV. Preparation phase

    • The therapeutic alliance.
    • Psychoeducation on diagnosis and treatment of PTSD with EMDR
    • Issues and methods of informed consent to treatment with EMDR.
    • Introducing mechanics of bilateral eye movements and alternative BLS.
    V. Didactic training and demonstration of methods of stabilization.
    • Breathing Exercises and Coherence training.
    • Calm place exercise.
    • Resource development and installation (RDI)

  • Day 3

    I. Review: history taking and targeting sequence.
    II. Case examples of history taking and targeting sequence.
    III. Phase three - assessment of the target to be reprocessed.

    • Purposes of the assessment phase.
    • Rationale for order of steps in the assessment phase.
    • Procedural steps for the assessment phase.
    1. Image
    2. Negative Cognition
    3. Positive Cognition
    4. Validity of Cognition
    5. Emotion
    6. SUD
    7. Location
    • Video demonstrating the Assessment Phase.
    IV. Introduction to basic elements of phases four, five, six and seven.

  • Day 4

    I. Review: The assessment phase
    II. Desensitization – Phase 4
    III. Installation – Phase 5
    IV. Body Scan – Phase 6
    V. Closure – Phase 7
    VI. Selecting clients for initial clinical application of EMDR reprocessing
    VII. Standards for scope of practice during and after basic training in EMDR.
    VIII. Video demonstrating Phases 3-7

  • Day 5

    I. Review of principles and procedures in phases four, five, six and seven.
    II. Phase eight re-evaluation

    • Video demonstrating Re-evaluation.
    III. Introduction to using EMDR with children and adolescents
    IV. Introduction to maintaining and restoring effective reprocessing

  • Day 6

    I. Treating unconsolidated memories with the “recent events” protocol
    II. Working with combat trauma and the military culture
    III. Advanced topics in maintaining and restoring effective reprocessing

    • Video demonstrating use of Interweaves during reprocessing.

  • Day 7

    I. Treating somatic disorders and chronic pain with EMDR
    II. Treating traumatic and complex grief with EMDR
    III. Treating Specific Phobias with EMDR
    IV. Treating panic attacks with and without agoraphobia
    V. Protocols for substance abuse and compulsive behaviors

  • Day 8

    I. Working with survivors of incest, sexual abuse and early neglect.
    II. Issues in working with severe DDNOS and DID
    III. Completing the treatment plan in cases of PTSD
    IV. The EMDR Community
    V. The need for ongoing continuing education in EMDR and consultation.
    VI. Systems issues
             Insurance reimbursement and acceptance by agency clinical directors.
             Adjunctive use of EMDR
             EMDRIA member code of conduct


Training Fees

Spring 2024 basic training in EMDR therapy
Save with early registration submitted in full and accepted by January 30, 2024.

  • Guarantee your place
  • Register early to secure the best rate.
  • Enrollment is limited.
  • Choose your preferred payment method.
Three easy installments by credit card or save with tuition in advance by check

Payment Type Early Registration Early Registration
Student/Agency Rate
Standard Registration Standard Registration
Student/Agency Rate
Credit Card
Installment Plan
3 Installments of $523
Total $1,569
3 Installments of $452
Total $1,356
3 Installments of $555
Total $1,665
3 Installments of $483
Total $1,449
Tuition in Advance
by Check
Deposit $755
Total $1,510
Deposit $655
Total $1,310
$1,595 Payment in full $1,395 Payment in full
  • Reviewers’ Track Discount

    Are you already trained in EMDR?

    Do you want to review the training to strengthen your understanding and skills?

    Take the entire SonomaPTI basic training at the student rate and earn 10 hours toward EMDRIA Certification.

    This offer is open only to licensed mental health professionals who meet eligibility criteria and who provide documentation of having completed any EMDRIA Approved Basic Training in EMDR.

Training Requirements

Please review the following five program requirements for the SonomaPTI basic training in EMDR therapy.
These requirements are also described in the participant’s agreement on the registration forms page.

  • Attendance

    You must attend all training days and actively participate in all supervised practice exercises and group consultation sessions in order to earn CE credits and receive documentation of completion for this training.

    Those who attend this workshop in full and complete all the appropriate evaluation forms will receive CE credits. Those arriving more than 15 minutes after the start time or leaving more than 15 minutes before the training is completed will not receive CE credits.

  • Study

    You must plan to read in their entirety and thoroughly study portions of both

    Shapiro, F. (2018). Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Basic Principles, Protocols and Procedures (3rd ed.). New York: The Guilford Press and

    Leeds, A. M. (2016). A Guide to the Standard EMDR Therapy Protocols for Clinicians, Supervisors, and Consultants, 2nd edition. New York: Springer Publishing Company.

    The pre-training reading list is available on the Registration Forms page.

  • Homework

    Consultation sessions require participants:

    1. to prepare written summaries about their actual clinical use of specific procedures, which are taught and practiced in the training; and
    2. to complete and discuss structured self-evaluation forms about their actual clinical experiences.

  • Readiness for Experiential Practice

    This training includes extensive experiential practice.

    You must be prepared to work on personal issues in these practice sessions. However the experiential practice portion of the training is for training purposes and is not personal psychotherapy.

    Participants who are not willing or able to participate in experiential work on stressful life experiences should not apply. If due to trauma, illness, or other life stressors, you are not emotionally or medically stable, you should not take the training at this time.

    If you have any uncertainty or doubts about these training requirements, please contact the Training Director prior to submitting your registration application.

    In addition, as disturbing material can emerge during practice sessions, you should be prepared to seek private treatment at your own expense if the need arises.

    These issues are also clearly stated in the participant’s agreement on the registration forms page. Please carefully read this agreement before signing it and submitting your registration materials.

  • Opportunities for Clinical Practice

    This training is focused on the application of EMDR to the treatment of disorders related to trauma and neglect. Participants will be required to discuss their clinical experiences in applying what they learn over the course of the training program.

    Please make sure your CV or resume reflects your clinical experience. You may enclose a letter if you wish to explain your clinical experience and current practice setting.

    The goal is to ensure that all participants have sufficient education and clinical experience to begin applying EMDR over the course of the training and have access to a clinical setting where the use of EMDR would be appropriate and possible.

    Clinicians with few opportunities to use EMDR in their clinical setting over the course of the training program will not derive much benefit from this training. With the small group format for practice exercises, such lack of practice might negatively impact the learning experience of others. Please consider this when you make application for this training. You should have at least two or more clinical cases available to you with whom you can apply EMDR during the course of this training.

Special needs

The training facility is in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you are disabled or have special needs you must inform SPTI at the time you submit your application so that we can review and discuss any needs for accommodations.


Compare Training Programs

  • Completion Rate

    Different providers have different rates of completion.

    This refers to the percentage of those who start training in EMDR who go on to complete all basic training requirements and receive documentation of program completion.

    With other training programs unfortunately many clinicians end up “half-trained”.

    Before you register with another training program find out their completion rate.

    Documentation of program completion is required

    • for eligibility to accurately state one is "trained in EMDR"
    • to become a full clinical member of the EMDR International Association and
    • to be eligible to pursue advanced EMDRIA recognition as a clinician Certified in EMDR or as an EMDRIA Approved Consultant.

    SonomaPTI completion rates* are
    2010: 100%
    2011: 100%
    2012: 100%
    2013: 100%
    2014: 100%
    2015: 100%
    2016: 100%
    2017: 100%
    2018: 100%
    2019: 100%
    2020: 100%
    2021: 100%
    2022: 100%


    * percentage who complete the training within 12 months of the first attended program module.

  • True Total Cost

    To compare the true total cost of basic training in EMDR, first find out about each of EMDRIA required training components.

    • 20 hours of lecture
    • 20 hours of supervised practice
    • 10 hours of consultation
    • a printed copy of the participant's manual
    • required text book(s)

    Then, based on the location of the training site(s) consider the costs of

    • travel
    • meals
    • accommodation
    • time away from work.

    The SonomaPTI registration fee covers the complete cost of the following program elements:

    25.5 hours of lecture
    22 hours of supervised practice
    10.5 hours of consultation
    275 page participant's manual
    two required text books must be purchased separately (see below).

    All required consultation hours are included in Weekends 2, 3, and 4.
    There is no need for any additional scheduling, travel or expense.

    Participants must pay separately for the two required texts books.
    For comparison purposes, new text book prices are quoted from Amazon as of December 27, 2021:
    Shapiro (2018) hardcover $48.50 or Kindle $45.00
    Leeds (2016) softcover $64.00 or Kindle $61.50
    Other text book prices are available from other vendors and for used copies of the required texts.

    SonomaPTI registration fees are based on your licensure status, employment setting and if you register early.
    The lowest registration fee is for early registration by check.
    The highest registration fee is for standard registration with tuition on an installment plan by credit card.

    How much will you pay?
    Pre-licensed clinicians, agency employees and reviewers pay a registration fee from $1,310.00 to $1,449.00
    Licensed clinicians pay from $1,510.00 to $1,665.00

    The bottom line
    With SonomaPTI total direct training costs with both required text books and registration fees range from a low of $1,424.00 to a high of $1,786.00.

  • Compare Costs & Benefits From More Than One Provider

    Comparing costs and benefits from more than one provider

    When you compare costs and benefits from more than one provider, first make sure they are EMDRIA approved, then find out:

    • Tuition for all required modules of the training.
    • Actual or estimated cost of consultation (if not included and delivered by the provider).
    • Cost of required text book(s)
    • Cost of travel, accommodations, and meals
    • Completion rate
    • Offering minimum hours or an enhanced curriculum for lecture and practice hours.

  • Make Sure Your EMDR Therapy Training Counts!

    Make sure your provider is EMDRIA approved.

    Providers of abbreviated and less expensive workshops are not EMDRIA approved.

    Sonoma Psychotherapy Training Institute’s Basic Training in EMDR is approved by the EMDR International Association.

    Graduates are eligible to become EMDRIA members and to pursue EMDRIA Certification. Please contact the Training Director with any questions.


How to Register

Go to the Registration Forms page, read the instructions, then download the application for registration and any other forms you need.

Do you have questions or concerns or need assistance?

Call or email us, we are happy to help.

Acceptance into the training

Please allow three business days for the review of your application for registration. You will be promptly notified of your acceptance into the training program. Your letter of acceptance will include a list of suggested reading and other study materials to help you prepare for the training.


Frequently Asked Questions

  • Does the SonomaPTI four weekend training cover Part 1 and Part 2 of the basic EMDR training?

    In a word, "Yes."

    Actually, the EMDR International Association approved SonomaPTI basic training in EMDR Therapy provides more hours of lecture and practice with additional training exercises than in the historic "Part 1" and "Part 2" approach.

    EMDRIA does not specifically recognize a Part 1, Part 2 (or Part 3) of basic training. These "parts" of training represent varieties of training models offered by different EMDRIA approved providers of basic training.

    EMDRIA sets minimum standards for amount of lecture (20 hours), practice (20 hours), and consultation (10 hours) and leaves it up to each provider to propose a training model and structure to meet EMDRIA standards. For example, EMDRIA approved University courses might meet once a week or twice a week for a semester. Some commercial EMDRIA approved basic trainings in EMDR Therapy are delivered in three weekends, some in two weekends.

    The SonomaPTI basic training in EMDR Therapy is offered as a series of four, two-day weekends scheduled over a 12-week period. With SonomaPTI, there is no "Part 1" or "Part 2," just a complete basic training. With SonomaPTI you sign up for a complete training with a specific training schedule. 12-weeks after you start, you have completed basic training in EMDR and are using it regularly in your current clinical setting.

    To see a quick overview of the SonomaPTI training model visit the Visual Schedule page.

  • I have a possible scheduling conflict for one or two of the eight days of basic training.

    The basic training in EMDR Therapy provided by SonomaPTI is a sequential learning process which builds progressively on learning experiences over each of the eight days of training.

    The program consists of more than 50% experiential learning activities through supervised group and partner practice exercises and group consultation sessions. It is not possible to miss one full day or a weekend and make it up via home study or private consultation.

    Further, EMDRIA requirements state that participants must attend all training days and actively participate in all supervised practice exercises and group consultation sessions in order to receive a certificate of completion for this training. Similarly, CE granting organizations require participation and completion of all program activities to earn CEs. Neither CEs, nor documentation of program completion may be granted for partial attendance.

    We recognize that holding our training over four two-day weekends may pose scheduling challenges for some. However, we believe that the progressive and sequential model of training provided by SonomaPTI provides a superior program of professional development.

    So, you should only plan to register if you can commit to attending all training days and participating fully. For further details please read the Registration Instructions and Checklist and the Participant Agreement on the Registration Forms page.

    To understand your options to complete the training should you elect to withdraw after partially completing the training, you are invited to read the Transfer Agreement on the Registration Forms page.

  • I want to register, but I cannot afford to pay the tuition in full in advance.

    SonomaPTI offers tuition on an installment plan with three payments by credit card spread over time. See the installment contract on page 3 of the Registration Application Form for details. If you submit a credit card installment contract, the initial charge will made to your account only upon your acceptance into the training.

  • I am an intern who wants to register. Must my supervisor be EMDR trained?

    Whether you are licensed as a psychotherapist or are an intern, you need to be working in a clinical setting where you will be able to practice the knowledge and skills you are learning in the EMDR Therapy basic training. Your supervisor need not be trained in EMDR Therapy, but must be supportive of your using EMDR Therapy with patients with posttraumatic stress and related syndromes such as phobias, panic attacks and symptoms of complex PTSD (DESNOS). As part of your application package, your supervisor will need to sign a letter to that effect. See the Registration Forms page for detailed guidance on this letter.

    Supervisors do not need to be trained in EMDR Therapy to provide supervision for pre-licensed clinicians being trained in EMDR Therapy. Your clinical supervisor should have education and training in the assessment and treatment of those with PTSD, phobias, panic attacks and complex PTSD (DESNOS). If your clinical supervisor is familiar with any of the evidence based treatments and the community standards of care for these conditions, there generally should be no barrier to your use of EMDR Therapy for these conditions.

    SonomaPTI provides written guidelines to assist you and your clinical supervisor in selecting cases suitable for application of EMDR Therapy during the training process. EMDR Therapy follows general principles from consensus models for treating these conditions. Some pre-licensed clinicians have clinical supervisors trained in EMDR Therapy, however a large portion of our interns have supervisors not yet trained in EMDR Therapy. Some clinical supervisors later decide to get training in EMDR Therapy after witnessing how clients of the pre-licensed clinicians they supervise progress as a result of treatment with EMDR Therapy.

  • I took EMDR Therapy training years ago, but have seldom used it. Can I review the training?

    Are you already trained in EMDR Therapy? Do you want to review the training to strengthen your understanding and skills? Do you want a great training value?

    Then the Reviewers’ Track Discount is right for you.

    You can take the entire SonomaPTI basic training at the student rate and earn 10 group hours toward EMDRIA Certification. Upon completion you will also receive 47.5 CEs toward re-licensure.

    In the reviews’ track you join other participants in the consultation and practice sessions to focus on how you can integrate EMDR into your current clinical setting. This offer is open only to licensed mental health professionals who meet eligibility criteria and who provide documentation of having completed any EMDRIA Approved Basic Training in EMDR.

    Are you partially trained in EMDR Therapy? Call or email to find out if you qualify for a special rate when you take the entire SonomaPTI Basic Training in EMDR Therapy.

  • Is consultation included in the basic training schedule and tuition?

    This is a great question and an important issue to consider. The short answer is, “Yes.”

    All EMDRIA approved providers of basic training in EMDR Therapy are required to provide at least 10 hours of consultation "in developmental increments to extend over the course of the training."

    In choosing between different providers of basic training in EMDR Therapy you should be aware that some providers of basic training do not include the cost of all 10 required hours of consultation in their listed tuition.

    Also, most providers do not include these 10 hours in the standard training schedule, but instead require participants to attend separately scheduled consultation sessions or to find a consultant on their own and to schedule and pay for their own consultation sessions privately.

    SonomaPTI takes a different approach.
    • First, the cost of all required hours of consultation is included in the listed tuition.
    • Equally importantly is that we integrate 10.5 hours of consultation into the standard training schedule of the 2nd, 3rd and 4th weekends.
    • These 90 minute sessions of consultation are provided in truly developmental increments.

    At SonomaPTI, we also closely support you in your learning process by providing clear and easy-to-use forms and scripts to assist in practicing and documenting your clinical experiences. This makes it easy for you to present simple work summaries to the consultants with whom you work over the course of the SonomaPTI basic training.

    Of course, completing basic training in EMDR Therapy is just the beginning of your professional development with EMDR Therapy. After you complete your Basic Training in EMDR Therapy, we strongly encourage you to continue to obtain consultation on a regular basis from an EMDRIA Approved Consultant. In addition to Dr. Leeds and his training staff, you have a diverse range of Approved Consultants to consider in the greater San Francisco bay area as well as telephone conference group and individual consultation with Approved Consultants from throughout the USA. Lists of additional resources for professional development in EMDR Therapy are provided in your SonomaPTI participant manual.

  • Will I be Certified in EMDR when I complete the Basic Training in EMDR?

    Completing an EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) approved Basic Training in EMDR Therapy is the first step. After completing basic training you are considered "trained in EMDR Therapy".

    After completing the basic training, licensed mental health professionals are eligible for full clinical membership in EMDRIA. Interns are eligible for associate membership and can upgrade to full membership upon licensure.

    Should you wish, after completing basic training you may pursue EMDRIA Certification. EMDRIA requirements to be recognized as EMDRIA Certified in EMDR are described in detail on EMDRIA's web site.

    Generally, you must
    • have at least two years experience in your field
    • have conducted at least 50 EMDR sessions with at least 25 clients
    • have received 20 hours of consultation by an Approved Consultant in EMDR Therapy (after completing Basic Training)
    • have completed 12 hours of EMDRIA Credits (continuing education in EMDR)
    • provide letter(s) of recommendation from one or more Approved Consultant(s) in EMDR Therapy, regarding your use of EMDR Therapy
    • provide two letters of recommendation
    • verify that you agree to adhere to EMDRIA's Professional Code of Conduct.

  • Most of my clients have complex co-occurring conditions. 
Can I learn EMDR Therapy with them?

    Yes! Absolutely.

    The training curriculum of the SonomaPTI basic training in EMDR Therapy is organized to address the fact that most clinicians see relatively few cases of single incident adult (or child) trauma and instead see mostly complex cases with co-occurring conditions.

    In fact, many of our participants work in county or federally funded mental health care systems, prisons and non-profit agencies with highly challenging cases.

    Therefore, from the beginning, the first weekend of the SonomaPTI basic training in EMDR Therapy focuses on the use of methods of stabilization and assessing readiness for EMDR memory reprocessing.

    It is not until the second weekend that we cover the standard EMDR PTSD protocol and standard EMDR procedural steps. Most clinicians in our previous trainings have found at least some of their clients meet readiness criteria for the standard EMDR procedural steps early in treatment or quickly achieve readiness using the stabilization methods we cover.

    In addition, at SonomaPTI you learn
    • Francine Shapiro's Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model,
    • an attachment based approach to case conceptualization as well as
    • specific strategies for screening for disorders of structural dissociation.

    The integrated approach to treatment planning and target sequencing taught in the SonomaPTI basic training in EMDR Therapy strengthens your ability to organize your work with your clients whether they are ready for EMDR reprocessing or not.

    In the second and third weekends you will learn and practice basic and intermediate procedures for EMDR reprocessing suitable for cases of PTSD, partial PTSD and related conditions.

    During the fourth weekend you will be introduced to a number of advanced EMDR Therapy approaches suitable for complex and co-occurring conditions including:
    • Treating somatic disorders and chronic pain with EMDR Therapy • Treating traumatic and complex grief with EMDR Therapy • Treating Specific Phobias with EMDR Therapy • Treating panic attacks with and without agoraphobia • The DeTUR protocol for substance abuse and compulsive behaviors
    • Working with survivors of incest, sexual abuse and early neglect. • Issues in working with severe DDNOS and DID

    The SonomaPTI "EMDR Training for Clinicians" builds the knowledge, skills and confidence you need to integrate EMDR Therapy into your actual day-to-day clinical practice with real world, complex cases.

  • I am a full time supervisor (or a researcher) without a current caseload. Am I eligible to enroll?

    You would need to have a minimum of two cases in your own caseload with whom you can practice the skills you are learning in the EMDR Therapy training. This applies equally to those in the reviewer's track as to those taking initial training in EMDR Therapy.

    Please consider exploring opportunities you have to begin seeing clients so that you would be able to practice what you are learning during the training.

    From the training requirements section on our web site:

    Opportunities for clinical practice
    This training is focused on the application of EMDR Therapy to the treatment of disorders related to trauma and neglect. Participants will be required to discuss their clinical experiences in applying what they learn over the course of the training program.

    The goal is to ensure that all participants have sufficient education and clinical experience to begin applying EMDR Therapy over the course of the training and have access to a clinical setting where the use of EMDR Therapy would be appropriate and possible.

    Clinicians with few opportunities to use EMDR Therapy in their clinical setting over the course of the training program will not derive much benefit from this training. With the small group format for practice exercises, such lack of practice might negatively impact the learning experience of others. Please consider this when you make application for this training. You should have at least two or more clinical cases available to you with whom you can apply EMDR Therapy during the course of this training.

  • I work with children and adolescents. Does the SonomaPTI training address how to adapt EMDR to their needs?

    During consultation sessions included in weekends 2, 3, and 4, each clinician presents for about 20 minutes and receives feedback from an Approved Consultant member of staff about their clinical experiences applying the procedures covered in previous weekends. So, during your individual time, you will be discussing your work with child or adolescent clients. Other members of your group (typically 8 or so) might also be working with children or adolescents. There is a wide range of clinical settings and our participants cover them all.

    There is a brief lecture segment during Weekend 3 that addresses modifications of EMDR suitable for children. However, the training standards within EMDRIA and EMDR Europe emphasize basic training for the adult population. In these models, treating children and adolescents is considered a specialty area to be addressed by attending advanced workshops after basic training. There are a number of excellent advanced training programs offered about EMDR with children and adolescents including live workshops, webinars, and conference presentations that have been audio recorded.

    If this is your speciality, our recommendation is to purchase the textbook and workbook by Robbie Adler-Tapia and Carolyn Settle and to study these before and during the SonomaPTI training in addition to Dr. Leeds’s textbook. They are the foundational books for the application of EMDR to younger clients.

    EMDR and the Art of Psychotherapy with Children: Infants to Adolescents Treatment Manual, 2nd Edition

    EMDR and the Art of Psychotherapy with Children, Second Edition: Infants to Adolescents, 2nd Edition

  • Where can I watch videos of past participants and staff speaking about this training?