EMDR Therapy
for kids and teens (ages 8-17)
Engaging in healing work takes bravery and courage.
EMDR makes it less overwhelming to face our fears
What is EMDR?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based therapy used to help people heal from past trauma and emotional challenges.
EMDR helps kids and teens feel less triggered by present day worries and fears.
How does EMDR work?
EMDR engages the brain in a natural healing process using bilateral stimulation while clients briefly “visit” the memory or trigger in their imagination.
With this approach, teens and kids don’t have to talk in detail about their distressing memories or triggers. They can draw pictures or just share a few words about their memories. We use bilateral stimulation to ignite the two sides of the brain to desensitize and reprocess painful memories.
This helps heavy memories feel lighter.
For example, maybe something scary happened to your child during a rainstorm years ago and they still feel scared every time it rains. EMDR can reduce that fear. A rainstorm will become just a rainstorm, rather than a full-body reminder of the scary event.
I always start the therapeutic process by building rapport and trust with my clients. I won’t lie, EMDR can be emotionally charged and heavy. We start the work only when clients and caregivers understand the process and are on board. I guide my clients through each step of the journey. When it fits for clients and caregivers, I weave EMDR work into the counseling and/or play therapy process. It doesn’t have to be all or nothing!
EMDR helps:
Children and teens who have experienced:
bullying
a car accident
gun violence
loss of a loved one or pet
abuse or neglect
discrimination based on gender and/or sexuality
Children and teens who struggle with:
anxiety
sports anxiety
big emotions
nightmares
negative body image
panic attacks
trauma flashbacks
Learn more about EMDR:
