EMDR for Children and Young People
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a highly effective, evidence-based therapy used to help children and young people process distressing memories, reduce emotional overwhelm, and build healthier coping responses. It is gentle, structured, and designed to support young people in a safe and developmentally appropriate way.
EMDR is a therapeutic approach that helps the brain reprocess difficult or traumatic experiences so they no longer feel as intense or disruptive. Instead of relying heavily on talking, EMDR uses bilateral stimulation—such as eye movements, tapping, or sounds—to help the brain “unstick” memories that may be causing distress, anxiety, or behavioural challenges.
What is EMDR?
How Does EMDR Work?
When a child experiences something overwhelming, their brain may store the memory in a way that keeps the associated emotions “active.” EMDR helps by:
Supporting the child to safely access the memory
Using bilateral stimulation to help the brain process it
Reducing emotional intensity connected to the memory
Replacing negative beliefs with more adaptive, positive ones
Over time, the memory remains, but the distress and triggers associated with it significantly reduce.
How Does EMDR Work?
When a child experiences something overwhelming, their brain may store the memory in a way that keeps the associated emotions “active.” EMDR helps by:
Supporting the child to safely access the memory
Using bilateral stimulation to help the brain process it
Reducing emotional intensity connected to the memory
Replacing negative beliefs with more adaptive, positive ones
Over time, the memory remains, but the distress and triggers associated with it significantly reduce.
What Conditions Can EMDR Assist With?
EMDR is effective for a wide range of emotional and behavioural concerns, including:
Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety and panic
Phobias and fears
Grief and loss
Emotional dysregulation
Attachment disruptions
Bullying or school-related stress
Low self-esteem
Behavioural responses linked to past experiences
Distress from medical procedures, accidents, or family changes
Professional counselling gives individuals access to a broad range of effective, appropriate, and specialised mental health services—helping people feel supported, understood, and empowered in their recovery.
Registered provider with the NDIS.
