EMDR for Trauma in Children

"What the mind cannot process, the body stores. EMDR helps you release and heal."

How EMDR Works

EMDR, or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is a structured therapy that helps children process difficult or overwhelming experiences in a way that feels safe and supportive. While the therapy follows specific steps, it’s designed to be flexible and tailored to each child’s unique needs.

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EMDR in Simple Terms & Why It Works

Think of your brain like a filing system. Normally, when something happens, your brain processes it, files it away, and moves on. But when something traumatic happens, your brain can’t file it properly. Instead, the memory gets "stuck" in its raw form, along with all the emotions, body sensations, and negative thoughts from that moment.

🔹 What EMDR Does
EMDR helps your brain unstick these memories and reprocess them, so they feel like a past event rather than something you're still reliving.

🔹 How It Works

The therapist asks you to think about a distressing memory while guiding your eye movements (or using sounds/taps).
This activates both sides of your brain, similar to how your brain naturally processes information during REM sleep (dreaming stage).
As you continue, the memory becomes less distressing, and your brain reorganizes it in a healthier way.

🔹 Why It Works

Trauma memories stay “stuck” in survival mode. EMDR helps your brain finish processing them properly.
After EMDR, the memory doesn’t disappear, but it no longer feels overwhelming.
Negative beliefs like “I’m not safe” or “It’s my fault” can shift into positive, empowering beliefs.

“It’s like taking a crumpled, painful memory and reorganizing it neatly in your brain, so it no longer controls you.”

Words from the Owner

EMDR for Children: A Powerful Tool for Healing

As a therapist, I have had the privilege of witnessing the profound impact of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy on children who have experienced trauma. EMDR is more than just a therapy technique; it’s a bridge between pain and healing, allowing children to process difficult experiences in a way that feels natural and safe.

Children don’t always have the words to express their pain, but trauma lingers in their nervous system, shaping their emotions, behaviors, and even their ability to connect with others. Through EMDR, I’ve seen children release fear, process deep-rooted pain, and rediscover a sense of safety within themselves. Their nightmares fade, their anxiety softens, and their confidence begins to bloom again.

One of the most powerful aspects of EMDR is how it allows children to reprocess painful memories without reliving the trauma. Using bilateral stimulation.

I’ve watched children who were afraid of the world begin to trust again. I’ve seen the tears of relief in parents’ eyes when their child finally sleeps through the night or when an anxious child walks into a room with newfound confidence. EMDR has given children the chance to reclaim their joy, their resilience, and their voice.

This work is powerful, humbling, and deeply rewarding.

Get Started With EMDR Therapy in Montebello, CA

The first step is often the most difficult step. Request a free consultation to ensure that we are a good fit for one another. This really allows us to understand your needs, discuss your goals, and determine how we can best work together. It's an opportunity to ask questions and learn more about our approach to therapy. We would love to support you.

Book A Session

After you request a consultation, we will then provide you with some screening forms to fill out. These forms are designed to give us a better understanding of your needs and how we can best support you.

Fill Out Intake Paperwork

Usually after the first few sessions, you are going to start to find relief from your symptoms and gain valuable insights into your emotions and behaviors. As we work together, you'll develop healthier habits, build resilience, and move towards a more fulfilling and balanced life. We're here to help you better understand yourself, find deeper and meaningful relationships and thrive in your life.