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EMDR
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing 
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What is EMDR?

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy is a structured form of psychotherapy designed to help individuals process and recover from traumatic memories and distressing life experiences. Recognised by organisations such as the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), EMDR is commonly used to treat:

 

  • PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)

  • Anxiety

  • Depression

  • Shock

  • Childhood Disorders

  • School Challenges

  • Neorodivergence

  • Fostering/ Adoption

  • Disordered Eating

  • Other trauma-related disorders

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​How Does EMDR Work?

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Bilateral Stimulation:

Core to EMDR, this involves movements (such as eye movements, tapping, or tones) that activate both sides of the brain.

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Focusing on Traumatic Memories:

Clients focus on specific memories, images, or feelings linked to trauma while engaging in bilateral stimulation.

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Memory Processing:

This process helps the brain reprocess traumatic memories, reducing their emotional impact.

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Adaptive Change:

The aim is to connect traumatic memories to more positive and adaptive beliefs and emotions.

 

​​What to Expect in EMDR Therapy

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Eight-Phase Approach:

Includes history taking, preparation, assessment, desensitisation, installation, body scan, closure, and re-evaluation.

 

Session Length: Typically 60-90 minutes per session.

 

Number of Sessions: Varies by individual and trauma complexity; may range from a few to several sessions.

Emotional Intensity: Sessions can be emotionally challenging, as they involve revisiting difficult memories.

Positive Outcomes: Many report significant symptom relief and improved well-being after EMDR therapy.

EMDR
THERAPY FOR TEENAGERS 
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Supporting Young People at Children, Adolessence & Beyond Psychotherapy

Understanding EMDR

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EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a gentle and well-researched therapy that helps teenagers make sense of experiences that may feel confusing, overwhelming, or difficult to move on from. At Children, Adolessence & Beyond Psychotherapy, EMDR is offered with care, sensitivity, and a strong focus on emotional safety.

The aim of EMDR is not to relive painful experiences, but to help the brain process them in a way that feels calmer and more settled.

 

How EMDR Supports Teenagers

During EMDR sessions, therapists use gentle bilateral stimulation such as eye movements or tapping while the young person focuses briefly on aspects of a challenging memory. This supports natural healing and helps reduce emotional intensity over time. The therapy does not require young people to talk in detail about what happened,helping them feel safe and supported throughout the process.

Sessions are carefully paced and adapted to suit each teenager’s comfort level.

 

Why Families Choose EMDR

  • Helps young people feel less overwhelmed by past experiences

  • Encourages emotional resilience and confidence

  • Supports improved sleep, concentration, and emotional regulation

  • Can be effective without long-term therapy

 

A Safe and Supportive Approach

At Children, Adolessence & Beyond Psychotherapy, EMDR is offered by Gina Dermody who understand adolescent development and the importance of trust, connection, and compassion. Therapy is always tailored to the individual young person and, where appropriate, informed by a wider family-aware perspective.

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If you are considering EMDR for your teenager, we are happy to discuss whether this approach may be suitable and answer any questions you may have.

Our Therapist Specialising in this area

Gina Dermody

Gina Dermody

Child, Adolescent, Young Adult & Family

Psychotherapist

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