EMDR for Kids & Teens

Children and teenagers can be affected by distressing experiences even when they find it difficult to explain what has happened. Trauma can influence emotions, behaviour, relationships, sleep, confidence and a young person's sense of safety.

EMDR for kids and teens is an evidence-based approach that can be adapted to make therapy developmentally appropriate while maintaining the core principles of the EMDR therapy model.

Children and adolescents may benefit from EMDR when they have experienced traumatic events, frightening experiences, loss, accidents, abuse, bullying or other experiences that continue to cause emotional distress. EMDR may also be considered for anxiety, phobias and other difficulties where distressing memories or experiences are contributing to current symptoms.

Phone: 0402 998 830

✉️ interpersonaltherapy.sw@gmail.com

How EMDR is adapted for children

EMDR with children does not necessarily look the same as EMDR with adults. Therapy may incorporate:

• Play and creative activities

• Storytelling and metaphors

• Drawing and other forms of expression

• Developmentally appropriate explanations

• Parent or caregiver-supported bilateral stimulation

• Butterfly hug or other forms of bilateral stimulation

• Child-friendly resourcing and regulation strategies

The therapeutic relationship and a child's sense of safety remain central. EMDR is introduced at a pace that is appropriate for the individual child or teenager.

EMDR for children and teenagers in the Sutherland Shire

I provide developmentally appropriate EMDR therapy for children and adolescents from my practice in Caringbah, Sutherland Shire, with Telehealth options available where clinically appropriate.

If your child or teenager has experienced something distressing and you are wondering whether EMDR may be suitable, we can first discuss their individual circumstances and consider the most appropriate therapeutic approach.

Phone: 0402 998 830

✉️ interpersonaltherapy.sw@gmail.com