EMDR for Children and Adolescents
What is EMDR?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychological therapy used to help children and adolescents process traumatic or distressing experiences.
It is adapted to the child’s age and developmental level and may include talking, drawing, play or other age-appropriate techniques.
When can EMDR help?
EMDR may be helpful following:
- accidents or physical trauma;
- hospitalisation or difficult medical procedures;
- bullying;
- bereavement or separation;
- frightening or violent experiences;
- significant anxiety linked to past events;
- nightmares, intrusive memories or avoidance.
Sometimes an event is over, but its emotional impact continues to affect a child’s mood, sleep, behaviour or confidence.
How does it work?
When an experience has been particularly stressful or traumatic, the memory can remain connected to very intense emotions, physical sensations or thoughts.
EMDR helps the child gradually process these memories in a safe and supportive environment so that they become less intrusive and emotionally distressing.
During therapy, bilateral stimulation such as guided eye movements or gentle alternating tapping may be used to help reduce the emotional intensity associated with the memory.
The child remains fully aware and in control of what they choose to share throughout the process.
A child-centred approach
With children, particular attention is given to creating a sense of safety and preparing them before working with difficult memories.
Depending on the child’s age, parents may be involved in parts of the process so that they can better understand the child’s reactions and support them in everyday life.
What are the benefits?
EMDR may help reduce the emotional intensity associated with certain experiences and allow a child or adolescent to feel progressively calmer.
Therapy may help children and adolescents:
- feel calmer and safer;
- reduce anxiety and fears;
- experience fewer intrusive memories or nightmares;
- avoid situations less;
- sleep better;
- regain confidence;
- think about a difficult event with less distress.
Is EMDR right for my child?
EMDR is not suitable for every child or every difficulty. An initial assessment helps to understand what the child or adolescent is experiencing, their history and their needs, and to determine whether EMDR may be an appropriate approach.
The aim is always to offer individualised, gradual support that respects the child’s pace. Other therapeutic approaches may also be used.
What can parents expect?
Before beginning EMDR work on difficult memories, time is spent helping the child feel safe, comfortable and sufficiently prepared.
Depending on the child’s age and needs, parents may be involved in parts of the assessment and therapy.
The number of sessions varies from one child to another and depends on the nature of the experience, the child’s history and their individual needs.
A child does not need to describe every detail of a traumatic experience for EMDR to be helpful.
Read more about child and adolescent psychology at IMC.