EMDR for Children and Teens

Why is EMDR an effective therapy for my child?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) has been shown through research to be a highly effective therapeutic approach for children and teens who are dealing with distressing symptoms such as anxiety, trauma, grief, or behavioral challenges. EMDR helps young clients process overwhelming experiences and emotions that may be too difficult to articulate through traditional talk therapy.

Illustration of a brain split into two halves, one light green and the other dark green, with a marble texture.

EMDR can help children and teens work through a wide range of issues, including trauma, anxiety, grief, bullying, low self-esteem, and behavior problems. It's especially useful for processing overwhelming experiences like abuse, accidents, or parental separation.
By reprocessing these events, EMDR can reduce symptoms like nightmares, emotional outbursts, or anxiety. Over time, it helps kids feel more confident, regulated, and resilient in facing life’s challenges.
Just like with adults, EMDR for children and adolescents follows the structured 8-phase protocol, which includes history-taking, preparation, assessment, desensitization, installation, body scan, closure, and reevaluation. However, with younger clients, these phases are often adapted to be developmentally appropriate incorporating play, storytelling, creative expression, and parental involvement when helpful.
Depending on your child’s age, needs, and treatment goals, your therapist may include you in different ways. This could range from minimal check-ins and going over possible symptoms, to being present during sessions; especially for younger children.
Yes! There are several accessible and well-regarded sources where you can explore the research and evidence behind EMDR with younger populations. Here are a few options to get you started:
1. EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) – emdria.org
  Offers research summaries, articles, and clinical resources specific to EMDR with children and adolescents.
2. Journal Article: “EMDR in Children and Adolescents”
  A review published in Journal of EMDR Practice and Research exploring outcomes of EMDR with young clients.
3. Book: EMDR Therapy and Adjunct Approaches with Children by Ana M. Gomez
  A helpful resource for both professionals and curious caregivers that breaks down how EMDR is adapted for kids.
4. National Library of Medicine – PubMed – pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  Search “EMDR children” or “EMDR adolescents” for peer-reviewed studies on effectiveness and outcomes.