Adolescent trauma is one of the most significant causes of mental health issues that can last a lifetime. Both single-event and complex, or developmental, trauma can lead to low mood, substance abuse, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy can help overcome the long-term effects of trauma. At Family First, we use EMDR with other evidence-based methods to help teens process their trauma and move forward.

The basics of EMDR therapy

Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing is a unique type of psychotherapy (talk therapy) that helps people process and heal from—often traumatic—experiences. It uses bilateral (on both sides of the body) stimulation techniques, such as eye movements or tapping, to make it easier for the brain to function as it processes memories. The ultimate goal is to minimize their negative impact on the individual’s mental and emotional well-being.

The eight steps of EMDR

EMDR takes an eight-step approach:

1. History & treatment planning – The therapist spends time getting to know your teen in a safe and comfortable space. They will talk about their experiences, strengths, support systems (such as family and friends), and personal goals. This helps create a treatment plan that meets your teen’s individual needs.
2. Preparation – Before beginning any deep work, the therapist ensures that your teen feels prepared and supported. They will explain how EMDR works, answer any questions, and teach relaxation techniques to help your teen feel in control throughout the process.
3. Assessment – When your teen is ready, they will work with their therapist to identify the memories or experiences that are causing distress. The therapist will help them describe their feelings, thoughts, and reactions in a way that feels manageable and safe.
4. Desensitization – This is where EMDR’s unique technique comes into play. While recalling a memory in a controlled setting, the therapist guides your teen through gentle eye movements or tapping exercises. These techniques help the brain reprocess the memory in a way that reduces its emotional impact.
5. Installation – As distress fades, the therapist helps your teen replace negative beliefs with positive, self-affirming thoughts about themselves and their experiences. This step helps build confidence and emotional strength.
6. Body scan – Since trauma can be stored in the body, the therapist will guide your teen through a calming body scan to identify and release any lingering physical tension, promoting full-body healing.
7. Closure – At the end of each session, the therapist ensures your teen feels grounded and calm. They will reinforce positive beliefs and make sure your teen leaves the session feeling stable and safe.
8. Reevaluation – In follow-up sessions, the therapist checks in to make sure the positive changes are holding strong. If anything needs additional attention, they adjust the approach to ensure continued healing.

These steps do not all happen in the same session. Instead, the treatment plan will allot up to a few sessions for the early steps, allowing clients to build trust and safety with the therapist and process.

Is EMDR safe?

EMDR can be a safe approach, even for adolescents. Some controversy surrounding the method stems from the discomfort some people feel toward newer therapy methods or the thought that it’s “hypnotic.” EMDR is not a type of hypnosis but a structured talk therapy method. Other reservations about EMDR come from the lack of research on it. While there is less evidence for it than other methods like cognitive-behavioral therapy (which was developed at least 20 years earlier), the studies that have been done show that it’s effective and has minimal side effects.

The methodical approach that trained EMDR therapists take can help clients feel safer during sessions. Looking for an experienced therapist who is certified in EMDR can ensure that your teen has a good experience.

Side effects of EMDR

Like any mental health treatment, EMDR can have side effects. These may include:

• Headaches
• Lightheadedness
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Vivid dreams
• Memory recollection, including repressed traumatic memories
• Fluctuating emotions

Your teen might experience side effects during an EMDR session or after therapy, especially within the first few days following a session.

How we use EMDR therapy at Family First

At Family First, we believe in the transformative power of specialized care. We have EMDR-certified therapists who work closely with teens who can benefit from this type of treatment. The cornerstone of our approach to adolescent therapy is creating a safe, supportive environment where teens can explore and process their experiences under the guidance of our professionals.

We combine EMDR therapy with other evidence-based methods—including the NeuroAffective Relational Model^® (NARM)—and holistic activities, like adventure therapy. Teens at our center stay engaged and challenged as they work toward long-term healing from their traumas.

The goals of treatment

• Trauma healing – EMDR therapy boasts a high success rate in treating trauma-related conditions like PTSD, anxiety, and depression. It can aid adolescents in healing from past traumatic experiences, thereby reducing their impact on mental health.
• Improved coping skills – Our EMDR therapy program equips adolescents with healthier coping strategies for managing stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges.
• Emotional regulation – EMDR therapy can help adolescents regulate their emotions by reprocessing traumatic memories. This process reduces the intensity of emotional triggers, promoting better emotional management.
• Increased self-esteem – As adolescents navigate through their traumatic experiences and develop healthier coping skills, many experience a boost in self-esteem and self-confidence.

Our safe, supportive environment provides space for your teen to heal. Plus, our three-to-one staff-to-client ratio ensures they get the care and attention they need as they work through some of the most challenging emotions they face.

Help your teen by calling Family First Adolescent Services now

The Family First team has more than 120 collective years of clinical experience in helping people struggling with their mental health. We know that teens living with unresolved trauma need a safe, supportive space where they can be vulnerable as they reconnect with a version of themselves that they are proud of. At our treatment center in South Florida, your teen can process their past and move forward. Call 888.904.5947 or contact us online now to get your teen the help they need.