
EMDR Basic Training in Cleveland, Ohio | In-Person & Virtual EMDRIA-Approved Training
EMDR Basic Training offers clinicians the opportunity to deepen their clinical skills and expand their ability to help clients process trauma in a meaningful, lasting way.
This training is facilitated through EMDR Cleveland, an EMDRIA-approved training center owned by Thomas Zimmerman, an internationally recognized EMDRIA-Approved Trainer and creator of Predictive Flash. EMDR Basic Training led by Derrick Martin, EMDRIA-Approved Trainer, offers a structured, supportive, and engaging learning experience designed to help you confidently integrate EMDR into your clinical work—whether you attend in-person in the Cleveland area or participate virtually.
Learn a Trauma-Informed Approach to Healing
At its core, EMDR is more than a technique—it is a trauma-informed, client-centered approach to healing. This training emphasizes understanding how trauma impacts the brain, body, and nervous system, and how clinicians can safely guide clients through the processing of those experiences.
Participants are grounded in the standard EMDR protocol developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro, while also learning how to approach each client with care, preparation, and clinical intention.
Through this training, clinicians learn to:
- Recognize and assess trauma in its many forms
- Support client stabilization and readiness
- Apply EMDR in a way that prioritizes safety, pacing, and attunement
- Build confidence in working with both straightforward and complex cases
All instruction is delivered under the guidance of EMDR Cleveland, ensuring the training remains aligned with EMDRIA standards and best practices.
A Training Experience Designed for Real Clinical Practice
EMDR Basic Training is comprehensive and rigorous—but it is also designed to be clear, engaging, and applicable to real-world clinical work.
Derrick Martin brings over 20 years of combined teaching experience in both clinical mental health and public safety settings. His approach focuses on helping clinicians truly understand the material—not just memorize it—so they can confidently apply EMDR with their clients.
Throughout the training, participants can expect:
- Structured, organized learning across all training days
- Clear explanations of complex concepts
- Real-life clinical examples that bring EMDR to life
- Opportunities for guided practice and skill development
- A supportive environment that encourages questions and growth
The goal is not simply to complete a training—but to leave feeling prepared, capable, and confident in using EMDR therapy.
Training Options
In-Person Training – Cleveland, Ohio
The in-person experience offers an immersive environment where participants can fully engage in learning and practice.
- Two separate 3-day training blocks (Part One and Part Two)
- 20 hours of didactic instruction
- 20 hours of practicum experience
- 10 hours of consultation
- 40 Continuing Education (CE) credits
- Comprehensive 300+ page printed training manual
Virtual EMDR Training
The virtual format provides the same high-quality training experience with added flexibility.
- Live, interactive sessions via Zoom
- Real-time practicum and feedback
- Printed manual mailed to participants
- Access to an online learning platform with additional resources
- Guidance for delivering EMDR therapy through telehealth
Agency Trainings
EMDR Basic Training is also available for organizations seeking to expand trauma-informed care within their teams.
- Available in-person within 120 miles of Cleveland, Ohio
- Virtual training available nationwide
- Designed for groups of 10–99 participants
- Includes all required consultation hours
- Tiered pricing based on group size
All training formats are officially facilitated by EMDR Cleveland, ensuring consistency, quality, and EMDRIA-approved certification.
Trainer Derrick Martin
Derrick Martin is a certified EMDR Therapist and EMDRIA-Approved Consultant with over two decades of combined experience in teaching, clinical practice, and trauma-focused care.
He has extensive experience working with individuals, couples, first responders, and military personnel—populations often impacted by complex and high-intensity trauma. His work integrates trauma-informed care and interpersonal neurobiology, helping clinicians better understand how trauma is stored and processed.
As an EMDRIA-Approved Trainer, Derrick teaches EMDR Basic Training through EMDR Cleveland, offering participants a learning experience that is both clinically grounded and highly engaging. His teaching style emphasizes clarity, connection, and practical application, helping clinicians feel confident as they begin using EMDR in their work.
Why EMDR Training Matters
EMDR therapy is one of the most extensively researched and effective approaches for treating trauma. For many clinicians, learning EMDR becomes a turning point in their professional development.
This training is not just about adding another modality—it is about expanding how you understand trauma and how healing can occur.
Through EMDR Basic Training, clinicians often discover:
- A deeper understanding of how trauma impacts clients
- New ways to support clients who feel “stuck” in traditional therapy
- Greater confidence in working with complex clinical presentations
- A renewed sense of purpose and effectiveness in their work
With the structure and support provided through EMDR Cleveland, and the instruction of Derrick Martin, participants gain both the foundation and confidence to begin using EMDR safely and effectively.
A Meaningful Investment in Your Clinical Growth
EMDR Basic Training represents a meaningful investment in your development as a clinician and in the well-being of the clients you serve.
With a strong foundation in trauma-informed care, structured learning, and built-in consultation, this training provides more than knowledge—it provides the ability to create meaningful change in the lives of those impacted by trauma.
For clinicians seeking EMDR training in Cleveland or virtually, this program offers a thoughtful, evidence-based, and engaging path forward, grounded in best practices and delivered through the established training model of EMDR Cleveland.
Why Choose Mind/Body Institute for Your EMDR Training
Ease: A Clear, Supportive Learning Process
We recognize that EMDR Basic Training is comprehensive and can feel overwhelming without the right structure.
That’s why our program is intentionally designed to be:
- Well-organized and easy to follow
- Broken into manageable, clearly defined learning segments
- Supported with step-by-step guidance throughout
You’ll always know what to expect, what you’re learning, and how to apply it—without feeling lost or unsupported.
Expertise: Learn from Experienced EMDRIA Approved Trainers
The quality of your EMDR training matters—and so does who you learn from.
Our Trainers:
- Derrick Martin and the Trainers at EMDR Cleveland have trained clinicians across diverse settings
- Bring deep experience in trauma treatment and EMDR application
- Offer practical, real-world insights you can immediately apply
You’ll gain access to:
- Clear explanations of complex concepts
- Relevant clinical examples
- Thoughtful answers to your questions
Just as important, we foster a safe and respectful learning environment where you can practice, ask questions, and grow your skills with confidence.
Investment: Training That Supports Your Growth Beyond the Classroom
We understand that investing in EMDR training is both a financial and professional commitment.
We are equally invested in:
- Your growth as a clinician
- The well-being of the clients you serve
- Your ability to implement EMDR safely and effectively
Throughout training, we emphasize:
- Careful client selection
- Thorough preparation and stabilization
- Ethical and clinically sound decision-making
With consultation built into the training package, you won’t be left figuring things out on your own—you’ll receive guidance as you begin integrating EMDR into your work.
What You’ll Walk Away With
By the end of your EMDR Basic Training, you will:
✔ Understand the full EMDR standard protocol
✔ Be able to safely begin using EMDR with appropriate clients
✔ Feel confident in your clinical decision-making
✔ Have access to ongoing consultation and peer support
✔ Be part of a growing community of trauma-informed clinicians
FAQ's
Who is eligible to take EMDR Basic Training?
Our EMDR Training in Ohio is designed for licensed mental health professionals, including:
- Professional Counselors (LPC, LPCC)
- Social Workers (LSW, LISW)
- Psychologists
- Other qualified mental health clinicians
If you are unsure whether you meet eligibility requirements, we encourage you to reach out—we’re happy to help clarify your qualifications.
Do I need prior experience working with trauma to attend?
No prior EMDR experience is required.
This training is designed to meet you where you are—whether you are newer to trauma work or already experienced. We provide:
- Foundational knowledge of trauma and EMDR
- Step-by-step instruction in the EMDR standard protocol
- Guidance on working with a range of client complexities
What does EMDR Basic Training include?
Our EMDRIA-approved training is comprehensive and includes:
- Two 3-day training sessions (Part 1 & Part 2)
- 20 hours of didactic instruction
- 20 hours of practicum (hands-on practice)
- 10 hours of consultation with approved consultants
- 40 Continuing Education (CE) credits
You’ll also receive a 300+ page training manual and access to supplemental online resources.
What is the difference between in-person and virtual EMDR training?
Both formats provide the same EMDRIA-approved curriculum and outcomes.
In-Person Training:
- Face-to-face interaction
- Immediate feedback during practice
- Highly immersive learning environment
Virtual Training:
- Live, interactive sessions via Zoom
- Breakout rooms for practicum practice
- Flexibility to attend from anywhere
Both options include full support, consultation, and access to all training materials.
Will I be able to use EMDR with clients after completing the training?
Yes—with appropriate client selection and preparation.
By the end of the training, you will:
- Understand the full EMDR standard protocol
- Be able to begin using EMDR with suitable clients
- Have consultation support to guide your early cases
We emphasize safe, ethical implementation, so you feel confident applying what you’ve learned.
Is consultation included in the training?
Yes. Consultation is built into the training package.
You’ll receive:
- 10 hours of required consultation
- Guidance from experienced EMDR consultants
- Support as you begin applying EMDR in your practice
This is a critical component in helping you transition from learning to real-world application.
What is EMDRIA and why does it matter?
EMDRIA (EMDR International Association) sets the gold standard for EMDR training.
Choosing an EMDRIA-approved training ensures:
- You are learning the evidence-based, original EMDR model
- Your training meets recognized professional standards
- You are eligible to pursue EMDR certification if desired
Our partnership with EMDR Cleveland ensures your training meets these high standards.
How long does it take to complete EMDR Basic Training?
The training is completed in two parts:
- Part 1: 3 days
- Part 2: 3 days
- Plus 10 hours of consultation (scheduled separately)
Most clinicians complete the full training process over several weeks to a few months, depending on scheduling.
Do you offer EMDR training for agencies or group practices?
es. We provide EMDR training for agencies in Ohio and nationwide.
We can:
- Train groups of 10–99 clinicians
- Deliver training in-person (within 120 miles of Cleveland, Ohio) or virtually
- Customize logistics for your organization
This is a cost-effective way to expand trauma-informed care across your team.
What is the cost of EMDR training for agencies?
Agency training pricing is based on group size:
All pricing includes full training and required consultation, with no additional fees.
For more information on training and consultation opportunities, please fill out the form below.
