EMDR therapy for children and young people
At Gateway Psychology, we understand that some experiences can leave children and young people feeling stuck, anxious, or overwhelmed. Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a safe and effective therapy that helps the brain process difficult memories and lessen their emotional impact.
Our team includes clinicians who are trained and experienced in delivering EMDR with children and adolescents, adapting the approach to suit each young person’s unique needs.
What is EMDR?
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a type of therapy that helps the brain heal from the effects of difficult or traumatic experiences. Sometimes memories of upsetting events can feel “stuck,” leaving children and young people feeling anxious, on edge, or overwhelmed. EMDR helps these memories become properly processed so they no longer cause the same level of distress.
During EMDR, the child is gently guided to think about aspects of a difficult memory while at the same time engaging in rhythmic movements, such as following a therapist’s hand with their eyes, tapping, or listening to alternating sounds. This process helps the brain reprocess the memory, reducing its emotional impact and allowing the young person to move forward with greater resilience.
Unlike many traditional “talking therapies,” EMDR doesn’t require children to describe the event in detail, which can make it especially helpful for those who find it hard to put their experiences into words.
How EMDR can help children and young people
Children and adolescents may struggle to put their feelings into words.
EMDR offers an alternative route to healing, supporting them to:
- Reduce the distress linked to traumatic or upsetting memories
- Improve emotional regulation and coping strategies
- Strengthen positive beliefs about themselves
- Build resilience and confidence in daily life
Research shows EMDR is effective in treating:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Anxiety, phobias, and panic
- Low mood or depression
- Grief and loss
- Emotional or behavioural difficulties following adverse experiences
Is EMDR right for my child?
Every child is different. EMDR may be particularly helpful if your child:
- Has experienced trauma, loss, or frightening events
- Shows ongoing anxiety, sadness, or behavioural changes
- Struggles to talk about what’s troubling them
If you’re unsure whether EMDR is the right fit, we offer initial assessments to discuss your child’s needs and recommend the most appropriate support.
What to expect as a parent/carer
Parents and carers are an important part of the process. We work closely with you to:
- Understand your child’s difficulties and strengths
- Provide tools and strategies you can use at home
- Keep you informed about progress while respecting your child’s privacy
This partnership helps your child feel supported both in and out of sessions.
EMDR therapy in Stoke-on-Trent
If you are looking for EMDR therapy in Stoke-on-Trent, Gateway Psychology can help. Our team offers EMDR for children and young people who may be struggling with the effects of trauma, anxiety, or other difficult experiences. We understand that taking the first step can feel daunting, but we are here to guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.
Whether you are a parent, carer, or professional seeking support for a young person, our clinicians can provide safe and effective therapy tailored to their needs.
Contact us today to find out more about EMDR in Stoke-on-Trent.