In Aotearoa New Zealand, we have a special way of seeing the world. Our culture is shaped by the resilient, down-to-earth attitudes of early settlers, and it shows up in everyday language. Phrases like “Sweet as” (meaning “all good”), “Yeah, nah” (a mix of yes and no that works as a filler), “Bugger all” (not much), “Good as gold” (all’s well), and “Yeah, right” (a bit of healthy scepticism) capture a uniquely Kiwi approach to life. But there’s one phrase I love most: “She’ll be right, mate.” It’s the ultimate expression of Kiwi confidence—trusting that things will work out with time or that “good enough” really is good enough. But, as much as I love this easy-going outlook, there’s one area where “She’ll be right, mate” just doesn’t fit, and that’s in professional support for EMDR therapists.

As EMDR therapists, we do important work with people in distress, which brings both challenges and responsibilities. Unlike most other fields, our work can get us face-to-face with tough emotions, stories of trauma, and even the secondary effects of trauma ourselves. Whether we’re fresh from training or seasoned in practice, navigating these challenges on our own isn’t a good idea. We can all benefit from the support of others who know the terrain, which is why ongoing, quality consultation is crucial in EMDR work. It helps us manage everything from countertransference (feeling a client’s emotions in our own reactions) to parallel processing (when a client’s experience affects us personally), not to mention the occasional information gaps and burnout that can affect anyone in the field.

Luckily, there are several ways to get the support we need, each with its own strengths. A solid starting point is peer supervision. After basic EMDR training, many of us connect with others on similar journeys. It’s up to us as trainers to encourage team spirit in new trainees and to build a supportive network that encourages openness and curiosity. Peer supervision is often easy to arrange and provides a collaborative space where therapists can share knowledge, exchange ideas, and work together to find solutions. It’s a great way to get feedback, troubleshoot common challenges, and learn from each other’s experiences.

Another excellent option is group supervision with an accredited EMDR consultant. In group settings, we benefit from the guidance of someone with advanced skills and experience. Group supervision offers each therapist time to present their cases, but it’s the collective feedback from the group that really makes it valuable. You can draw on the knowledge of others, hear a range of perspectives, and apply these insights to your own practice. And because it’s usually more affordable than one-on-one sessions, it’s also a cost-effective way to grow and improve our skills.

If you’re looking for more tailored support, individual consultation with a senior EMDR consultant can be a fantastic option. In one-on-one consultations, you get dedicated, personalised guidance on your unique questions and challenges. However, there are a few things to consider here. If you’re working towards certification or accreditation, only consultations with an accredited consultant will count. Also, accredited consultants are in high demand, so it might be hard to get time with one when you need it.

Each of these options has something different to offer, so finding the right balance can feel like a bit of a puzzle. But whichever route you take, remember that prioritising professional support is essential for effective, sustainable practice. Talking through cases, sharing strategies, and getting feedback are all ways to keep ourselves on track and deepen our skills. Staying connected with other EMDR practitioners, whether through peer support, group supervision, or one-on-one consultations, strengthens our resilience and ability to help others.

So, while “She’ll be right, mate” might be our go-to for many things in New Zealand, in the world of EMDR, there’s a better version: “She’ll be right—with the right support.” Embracing professional consultation helps ensure we’re not just ‘getting by’ but thriving in our work, delivering the best care possible to those who need it most.