What is EMDR?

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a powerful, evidence-based therapy that helps the brain heal from difficult or distressing experiences. Sometimes, when something upsetting happens, our brains don’t fully process the memory — leaving behind “stuck” feelings, thoughts, or body sensations that can show up later as anxiety, low mood, or big emotional reactions.

EMDR helps your brain finish that healing process. Through gentle bilateral stimulation (such as eye movements, tapping, or sounds), EMDR helps you reprocess memories in a safe, supported way so they no longer feel as overwhelming. You don’t have to retell every detail — your brain does much of the work naturally.

EMDR for Kids

Children often express their feelings and experiences through play, not words. When something stressful or confusing happens, their brains may hold onto the memory in a “stuck” way, even if they can’t fully explain it. This can show up as big emotions, worries, sleep changes, meltdowns, or trouble focusing.

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) helps children’s brains finish processing those experiences so they can feel calmer, safer, and more confident. EMDR doesn’t erase memories — it helps kids feel differently about them.

In sessions, I combine play therapy and EMDR to create a warm, supportive space where children can explore their feelings through drawing, storytelling, movement, or imaginative play. Using gentle forms of bilateral stimulation — like tapping, following lights, or using playful tools — we help the brain “reprocess” tough moments at a pace that feels right for your child.

Each step is developmentally appropriate, creative, and guided by your child’s comfort and readiness. Together, we work to strengthen their ability to manage big feelings, build resilience, and feel more grounded in everyday life.

When EMDR Can Help

EMDR can be helpful for children, teens, and adults who have experienced difficult or distressing events — whether those experiences were big and obvious or smaller moments that still feel heavy inside.

You don’t have to have gone through a major trauma for EMDR to help. Sometimes it’s the everyday experiences — feeling left out, not good enough, or scared — that leave lasting emotional imprints. EMDR supports the brain in processing these experiences so they no longer feel so present or powerful.

EMDR may help with:

Anxiety, panic, or excessive worry
Depression or low self-esteem
Grief or loss
Postpartum or perinatal challenges
Stress from medical procedures or illness
Separation, divorce, or family changes
Nightmares or trouble sleeping
Big emotional reactions that feel hard to control
Accidents or frightening experiences
Feeling “stuck” or disconnected from yourself

To learn more visit: www.emdria.org