René van Diest is a clinical psychologist and psychotherapist. He is certified as an EMDR Europe trainer (adults) and serves as a supervisor for the EMDR Netherlands Association. Additionally, he is a cognitive behavioral therapist and supervisor for the VGCt (Dutch Association for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)

René is the co-author of the Handbook of EMDR Therapy, 8th edition, which is scheduled to be published in mid-2026.

In addition to his educational activities, René runs a Specialist Mental Health Care practice in Breda. He has been working in the mental health care sector since 1988 and has gained experience within the Royal Netherlands Army, the RIAGG (Regional Institute for Mental Health Care), addiction care (both clinical and outpatient), at HSK, and in hospital psychiatry before transitioning to full-time work in his own practice.

René strives to create a safe learning environment in his trainings and has an interactive teaching style. His goal is achieved when participants have not only gained knowledge about EMDR but also understand why this specific method is used, and from that understanding, enthusiastically and joyfully help many clients with EMDR.

Region: North Brabant

Registrations: Clinical Psychologist (BIG), Psychotherapist (BIG), VGCt Supervisor, VEN/EMDR Europe Supervisor, VEN/EMDR Europe Trainer

Other Publications: Van Diest, R., & Ten Broeke, E. (2026). "Easy to learn": Procedural adjustments in Shapiro's original protocol. EMDR Magazine (41)