We are proud to be offering Aotearoa New Zealand's first University-based postgraduate training in EMDR.
This training is taught by one of Aotearoa New Zealand's leading EMDR educators, MaryAnn Stevens.
In her practice, MaryAnn Stevens uses EMDR therapy widely, with clients presenting with a variety of mental health conditions in which trauma is a component. MaryAnn's knowledge of EMDR as a powerful therapy, with applications in so many different areas, is a gift she is keen to share with as many clinicians as possible.
The teaching team will also include Clinical Psychologists and Psychotherapists who have considerable experience with EMDR.
How is it taught?
Our Postgraduate Certificate in Health Sciences endorsed in EMDR consists of two 30-point papers. Each paper is run over one academic year.
- First year: PSME 455 Foundational Clinical Practice in EMDR Therapy (2025)
- Second year: PSME 456 Advanced Clinical Practice in EMDR Therapy (2026)
Applicants can only register for one paper each year and must complete that paper in the same year.
Our EMDR PSME 455 and PSME 456 papers are both clinical-based training courses: Attendance is compulsory for all online lectures, in-person block course teaching, the online supervision sessions, and the final exam.
Over the duration of the academic year:
- Students are required to complete 80 hours of logged EMDR therapy practice with clients
- Prior to Block 1, the first of 2 (5-week) series of weekly online lectures will commence; lecture recordings will be available in Moodle
- 2 in-person teaching blocks of 2 1/2 days are held at the Wellington campus
- 10 hours of online supervision sessions will be provided over various dates
- There are 4 assignment assessments
- Plus the online final viva exam at the end of the course
Who can apply?
This course is open to registered mental health practitioners including:
- Psychiatrists
- Psychologists
- Psychotherapists
- Nurses
- Social Workers
- Occupational Therapists
- Counsellors
- Art Therapists
EMDR is a complex, structured therapy. The training is intensive, and for acceptance into this programme you may be asked to provide a CV and transcripts of your relevant academic study.
Please check the paper pages for full eligibility criteria.
What does it cost?
2025 domestic tuition fees are set at $2,704.75.
This cost includes 30 hours of lectures, 2 block courses of 2 1/2 days, 10 hours of supervision and the final exam.
More information on fees
How to apply
Apply for the Postgraduate Certificate in Health Sciences (PGCertHealSc) endorsed in EMDR Therapy.
- As you go through the application process you will also need to upload a copy of your current CV, proof of registration, and copies of your official academic transcripts relating to any qualifications you have noted in the University portal
- The Admissions team in Dunedin then check your eligibility to ensure your application meets postgraduate study level; please respond to any emails they may send you
- Important: Please email emdr.uow@otago.ac.nz to confirm that you have submitted your application, and advise us of your student ID number
