Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) with Children and Adolescents

Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based psychotherapy approach for the treatment of adults, adolescents, and children suffering from symptoms and problems related to single-incident or complex trauma. EMDR therapy is a three-pronged protocol that brings past trauma to adaptive resolution, eliminates present-day triggers, and develops positive templates for future functioning. It involves eight standardized phases that include the application of bilateral eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation. It can address a wide range of experiences, including single incident traumas, trauma-related to war or natural disasters, abuse, and adverse experiences such as rejection, marginalization, and discrimination. Because it is a client-centered approach and can be integrated with other therapies as needed, EMDR can be adapted to engage children and adolescents, including children with special challenges such as complex trauma, high-risk behaviors, autism, intellectual disability, and family system issues. Possible adaptations include simplified instructions, playful methods of bilateral stimulation, expression of thoughts and feelings through drawing or sand tray, use of a trauma narrative, and integration with family therapy.