Understanding two distinct approaches
IEMT and EMDR: similarities and differences
Both approaches may use guided eye movements, but they are not versions of the same method. They differ in their underlying models, training routes, session structure, intended use and strength of evidence.
The shared use of eye movements can make IEMT and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing appear closely related. In practice, an eye movement is one component within a larger therapeutic process. The questions asked, the way a target is selected, the sequence followed and the practitioner’s professional framework all matter.
What they have in common
There is genuine overlap, but it should not obscure the differences.
Attention
Internal experience
Both invite the client to attend to emotionally significant memories, feelings, thoughts, images or body responses.
Movement
Guided eye movements
Both may use left-to-right eye movements while the client maintains attention on selected material.
Practice
Consent and competence
Both require appropriate assessment, informed consent, practitioner competence and a clear route to pause, adapt or refer.
Comparison at a glance
| Area | IEMT | EMDR |
|---|---|---|
| Core model | Emotional imprinting, identity imprinting and patterns that may maintain chronic difficulties. | The Adaptive Information Processing model and an eight-phase treatment approach. |
| Typical focus | A specific emotional response, memory representation, recurring pattern or identity statement. | Distressing memories and associated images, beliefs, emotions and body sensations within a treatment plan. |
| Session structure | Structured questions and distinct eye-movement patterns selected according to the target and observed response. | Eight phases: history, preparation, assessment, desensitisation, installation, body scan, closure and re-evaluation. |
| Use of movement | Guided eye movements are central to the named IEMT patterns. | Eye movements are one form of bilateral stimulation; taps or tones may also be used. |
| Verbal detail | Detailed disclosure of an event is not normally required. Work may begin from the client’s present response. | A target memory is identified and assessed, although the client does not necessarily have to describe every detail aloud. |
| Training route | Association-approved Practitioner and Advanced Practitioner training, followed by certification requirements and practice within the trainee’s existing scope. | UK accredited training has defined professional eligibility requirements and leads into supervised practice and optional EMDR Europe accreditation. |
| Evidence | Case reports and early studies exist, but the independent evidence base remains limited and developing. | A substantially larger research base exists. NICE and WHO include EMDR in recommendations for PTSD. |
| Professional status | IEMT is a therapeutic technique. Association registration is voluntary and is not statutory regulation or PSA accreditation. | EMDR is a recognised psychological therapy. Professional regulation depends on the clinician’s core profession; EMDR accreditation is separate. |
The evidence difference matters
EMDR has been evaluated extensively and is recommended by NICE and the World Health Organization for PTSD in defined circumstances. IEMT’s evidence base is much smaller. It should not be described as equally established, as a substitute for guideline-recommended care, or as proven to treat every condition for which practitioners may report benefit.
What this means in practice
For clients and referrers
- Ask which method is being offered and what the practitioner is qualified to do.
- Check how the proposed work relates to your needs, diagnosis and current care.
- For PTSD, consider treatments recommended in current clinical guidance.
- Do not assume that all eye-movement methods have the same evidence or safeguards.
For practitioners
- Name the approach accurately and explain its evidence status.
- Work within your core competence, insurance and professional scope.
- Do not borrow EMDR terminology or imply EMDR accreditation when offering IEMT.
- Use assessment, consent, record keeping, supervision and referral appropriately.
EMDR training is not limited only to psychologists and psychiatrists
Eligibility in the UK covers a defined range of regulated and professionally qualified practitioners who meet the relevant experience criteria. The requirements are specific and should be checked with an accredited training provider. They are broader than “medical professionals only”, but they are not open-entry.
Check EMDR Association UK training eligibility | Read EMDR Europe’s overview
Continue exploring
IEMT research
Review published, preliminary and developing evidence without overstating its certainty.
IEMT case studies
Read practice-based accounts with attention to what case material can and cannot establish.
Training routes
See approved IEMT training, certification requirements and upcoming courses.
The comments regarding EMDR are not fully accurate:
1. It is not about just resolving PTSD. Many mental health problems are trauma related – anxiety at work, for example, can often be rooted in issues from school such as bullying. Use of floatback or affect bridge can identify the root cause (trauma), which when resolved with EMDR, leads to cessation or reduction of anxiety in current life situation.
2. Affirmations and positive belief statements are used, but the idea is that they are self-generated – ie emerge spontaneously as a result of processing trauma.
3. Saying it was ‘developed from an original idea from John Grinder’ is not really true – many people have ideas and ‘originality’ is a matter of opinion.
That said, I like some of the ideas behind your ‘patterns of chronicity’ – I think they do represent some of the blocking beliefs that stop people reaching their true potential. I just wish people didn’t pigeon hole EMDR!
Thanks Justin, but just to note that I did not write the second half of this page regarding the differences, it was written by an EMDR trainer who attended an IEMT training.
Tbh i expect EMDR has been pigeon holed because its become a buzz word/abbr, like CBT, iapt and many other public health options.
These are also more commonly advertised and therefore only a portion of information is taken and run with. If people think there’s a quick fix in this busy world where time is of the essence, it sells well.
I do think both approaches have a lot to offer though.