What is EMDR and How It Can Help Children Heal
When kids experience something scary, stressful, or overwhelming—whether it’s a single event or something ongoing—it can be hard for their brains to make sense of it all. Even when life moves on, big feelings can linger in their bodies. That’s where EMDR comes in.
EMDR: A Brain-Based Therapy for Processing Hard Things
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, and it’s a powerful, research-backed therapy that helps children process difficult memories so they feel less overwhelming over time.
Here’s how it works in simple terms:
Our brains naturally try to heal from hard experiences—especially during REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, when dreams help us make sense of our emotions and memories. EMDR taps into that same natural healing system while the child is awake and fully in control. With gentle guidance from a trained therapist, the child experiences soothing, back-and-forth stimulation—often through eye movements, sounds, or tapping—to help their brain safely “reprocess” those memories.
It’s not hypnosis. It’s not invasive. And it doesn’t require a child to talk in detail about the upsetting event.
EMDR for Kids: Safety, Creativity, and Support
EMDR with children looks a little different than it does with adults. It’s more playful, imaginative, and tailored to a child’s developmental stage.
Before diving into the hard stuff, the therapist helps each child create internal resources—safe places in their minds, calming imagery, or even superhero powers they can imagine using when things feel tough. These help them feel more prepared and supported during processing.
And caregivers are often involved in the process—especially for younger children—so healing continues at home, not just in session.
What Can EMDR Help With?
EMDR is best known for treating trauma, but it’s also helpful for:
Anxiety or phobias
Nightmares or sleep struggles
Grief and loss
Stress from medical procedures or injuries
Bullying or social struggles
Sometimes children begin feeling better more quickly than with traditional talk therapy, though every child’s pace is unique and respected.
What EMDR Gives Back to Kids
EMDR helps children:
Release stuck feelings that keep surfacing in daily life
Strengthen positive beliefs, like “I’m safe now” or “I can handle this”
Build confidence in navigating life’s challenges
Over time, the memory that once felt so big and scary can feel more like a story their brain understands—and less like something they have to relive.
Is EMDR Right for Every Child?
Not always. EMDR is most helpful when matched to a child’s developmental level and unique story.
If your child is very young, going through ongoing stress, struggling with attachment, or facing complex behavior challenges, other modalities—like Synergetic Play Therapy™—may be a better first step. At Play Therapy Connection, we specialize in matching the right approach to each child’s needs.
Want to Learn More About EMDR?
If you’re wondering whether EMDR might be a good fit for your child, reach out to schedule a consultation with me (Kayleigh) or another member of our team. I am here to help you explore what healing can look like—at your child’s pace, with safety and connection at the center.
All the best,
Kayleigh Boveri