FAQs

What Pakistani mental health professionals often ask about EMDR

Yes. EMDR integrates well with various modalities. It provides a structured, phase-based approach specifically effective for trauma processing, without replacing your existing skills.

Only those who have completed accredited EMDR basic training can ethically offer EMDR. Certification adds credibility but is not mandatory to start practicing.

Basic training is delivered in two parts over several months, including supervised practicum and consultation hours.

Yes. EMDR’s structure is adaptable to diverse cultural and linguistic contexts. Local therapists have successfully used it with trauma survivors, children, and communities affected by disaster or violence.

Training is often conducted in English, but the therapy itself can be delivered in any language. Urdu, Punjabi, and Pashto adaptations are being developed and used. Cultural relevance and client understanding are more important than rigid translations.

You can begin practicing EMDR after completing the first training module, but only under supervision. This ensures that you’re applying the protocol correctly and ethically while gaining confidence.

What is the pathway to becoming an EMDR therapist?

To become an EMDR therapist, follow these steps:

Step 1:

Eligibility Check

You must be a licensed mental health professional in Pakistan (e.g. clinical psychologist, psychiatrist, or counselor) with active clinical experience.

Step 2:

Complete Basic EMDR Training with a EMDR Asia Certified Trainer

This is typically delivered in two parts, over the course of two weekends, covering the 8-phase protocol, case formulation, and hands-on practice. The training must be conducted by an EMDR Asia (or equivalent) accredited and approved trainer.

Step 3:

Become a member of the EMDR Pakistan Fraternity by receiving a membership number

Once training is complete, you are then eligible to receive a membership number from the EMDR Pakistan Association that will allow you to practice EMDR in Pakistan and you will become an EMDR Pakistan endorsed practitioner. Memberships can be revoked due to unlawful practices or if practitioners do not attend refresher trainings.

Step 4:

Supervised Practice & Consultation

After the training, you are expected to complete a set number of clinical hours using EMDR, alongside consultation with an EMDR consultant.

FAQs What Pakistani Clients Often Ask About EMDR Therapy

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a type of therapy that helps people process difficult memories, especially after trauma. It uses guided eye movements or other forms of left-right stimulation to help the brain reprocess painful experiences and reduce emotional distress.

No, you don’t need to describe every detail. Unlike some therapies that require you to talk extensively, EMDR focuses on how your memory is stored in the brain. You’ll work with your therapist to target specific memories without needing to relive them out loud.

This varies from person to person. Some people feel better after just a few sessions, while others need more time. Your therapist will assess your needs and guide you through the phases of treatment at a pace that feels safe.

EMDR is considered safe and effective, even for people who’ve been through multiple traumas. However, it should always be done with a trained professional. If you have a history of severe mental health symptoms or complex trauma, your therapist will adjust the process to ensure it’s handled carefully.

You remain fully aware and in control during EMDR. You are not hypnotized. If anything feels overwhelming, you can pause the session at any time.

EMDR has also been used to help with anxiety, panic attacks, low self-esteem, phobias, and grief. It’s not limited to just trauma.

EMDR is a scientific, evidence-based method. It doesn’t involve any religious practices and can be used with people of any (or no) faith.

EMDR has been adapted for use with children and adolescents. Therapists use age-appropriate methods such as drawing or storytelling to help young people process difficult experiences safely.

Make sure your therapist has completed accredited EMDR training. You can check our “Find a Therapist” page or ask them directly about their certification and experience.

Many EMDR therapists in Pakistan conduct sessions in Urdu, Punjabi, Pashto, or Sindhi. The process can be adapted to your language and cultural background.