EMDR for Children and Adolescents (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)

A gentle, developmentally-tailored form of EMDR that helps kids and teens heal from trauma, anxiety, grief, and overwhelming life events.

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Pediatric Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing

A structured trauma treatment that supports children and adolescents in healing from trauma, grief, phobias, and emotional distress.

Best for

Childhood trauma, bullying, abuse, medical trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, phobias.

Session format

Individual, Family-Involved, or Group · In person or Virtual.

Typical cadence

Weekly · Session length: 45–60 minutes.

Duration

Varies often 6–12 sessions for single-event trauma, longer for complex trauma

Often combined with

Play therapy, CBT, family therapy, mindfulness, school supports.

Evidence base

EMDR is well researched and highly effective for children and adolescents with PTSD and anxiety

What Is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing for Children and Adolescents (EMDR for Children and Adolescents)?

EMDR therapy is adapted for young people using creative, engaging methods to make the process safe and accessible. Just like adults, children can carry “stuck” trauma memories that cause nightmares,anxiety, or behavioral struggles.

In child-focused EMDR, therapists use:

Drawing and art

to represent memories or feelings

Storytelling or puppets

to help kids express difficult experiences

Games or movement

for bilateral stimulation (taps, sounds, or eye movements)

Family involvement

to reinforce healing and provide safe support at home

How Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing for Children and Adolescents Helps in Recovery

Supporting young minds as they process trauma and build emotional resilience

Reduces PTSD symptoms

Calms nightmares, flashbacks, and fear responses.

Supports emotional regulation

Helps kids and teens manage big feelings safely.

Improves self-esteem

Shifts negative beliefs (“It was my fault”) into healthier ones

Strengthens family bonds

Caregivers learn how to support recovery with compassion

What to Expect in Sessions

Child-focused EMDR is adapted to developmental needs. Sessions may include:

History & planning

Parents and child share experiences and goals.

Assessment

Choosing a memory or feeling to target, using kid-friendly language.

Desensitization

Bilateral stimulation via drawing, tapping, or movement games.

Body awareness

Helping kids notice and release lingering tension.

Closure & integration

Ending sessions with safety and comfort strategies

Who Benefits from Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing for Children and Adolescents (EMDR)?

Young individuals needing support to process difficult memories safely

Children and teens benefit from Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing because it provides a gentle, structured way to work through painful or confusing experiences without overwhelming them. Young people who struggle with trauma, anxiety, behavioral challenges, or unresolved memories can find relief through EMDR’s developmentally adapted approach.

Abuse, Neglect & Bullying

Children and teens who experienced abuse, neglect, or bullying

Medical Trauma in Children

Kids with medical trauma (surgeries, ICU stays, chronic illness)

Grief & Loss Support

Youth affected by grief, divorce, or sudden loss

Trauma Related Anxiety

Adolescents with anxiety, panic, or depression linked to trauma

Family & Community Trauma

Families coping with school violence, accidents, or community trauma

Why TruPaths Highlights Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing for Children and Adolescents (EMDR)

Specialized Trauma Therapy Tailored for Young Minds

TruPaths highlights this approach because children deserve healing as early as possible. EMDR empowers kids and teens to process trauma before it becomes lifelong pain, giving families hope and resilience.

FAQs about Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing for Children and Adolescents (EMDR)

Is EMDR safe for children?

Yes. EMDR has been adapted successfully for children as young as 4.

Can this help with anxiety and school stress?

Yes, EMDR can reduce anxiety, improve focus, and help children manage emotional stress related to school or life change.

Do parents attend sessions?

Parents are often involved, especially in the early stages, to support the child and understand how EMDR works at home.

Is it covered by insurance?

Yes, many insurance plans cover EMDR under mental health benefits, though coverage can vary by provider and plan.

Does my child have to talk about their trauma?

No, EMDR doesn’t require detailed discussion of the event — it helps the brain process feelings without reliving the trauma.

How long does EMDR take for kids and teens?  

EMDR for kids and teens typically works faster than traditional therapy, often showing progress within a few sessions depending on the child’s needs.

Find Recovery Options Offering EMDR for Children and Adolescents

Children deserve to grow free from trauma. EMDR for kids and teens helps young people heal, build resilience, and move forward with strength and confidence.

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