Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a proven, integrative therapy that helps teens heal from trauma, PTSD, and other mental health conditions without requiring them to talk through every painful detail. Developed by psychologist Francine Shapiro, EMDR uses bilateral eye movements to help the brain reprocess distressing memories, drawing on the same neurobiological mechanisms activated during REM sleep. For adolescents who struggle to articulate their experiences in traditional talk therapy, EMDR offers a powerful alternative. This guide explains how EMDR works, what the research shows for teens, how trauma-focused therapy differs from standard CBT, and what parents should know about the treatment process.
How Does EMDR Work?
Because EMDR can seem abstract, therapists often use a simple analogy: think of a physical wound. When we get a splinter, the body naturally works to heal. But if the splinter stays lodged in the skin, the wound festers and the pain continues. Once the splinter is removed, the body’s healing process resumes.
Trauma works the same way in the brain. A traumatic event—whether a single incident or complex, repeated trauma. It creates a mental and emotional wound. The brain’s information processing system tries to heal it, but unresolved negative impacts can block that process. EMDR removes those blocks so natural healing can take effect.
Explaining EMDR to Parents and Teens
Because EMDR for teens can be hard to describe and understand, EMDR therapists often explain the technique by using the analogy of a physical wound. When we cut ourselves or get a splinter, the body works to heal the wound. However, if a foreign object or repeated injury keeps the wound from healing, we experience more pain. Once the splinter or other blockage is removed, healing can occur.
In EMDR theory, a traumatic event—whether a complex trauma or single-incident traumas—is like a mental and emotional wound. The brain’s information processing system tries to heal that wound. However, if the healing process is blocked or imbalanced by the ongoing negative impact of trauma, the wound cannot heal. Once the blocks are removed, the natural healing processes can go into effect.
Ana M. Gomez, author of EMDR Therapy and Adjunct Approaches with Children, offers another helpful way to explain this to young people:
When we have bad or negative events in our lives like abuse, bullying, divorce, accidents, losses and death of a loved one, or violence in the home, among others, the brain creates “files” or “apps” that contain all the feelings, thoughts, and body sensations connected to this event. When the event is really bad or has happened several times, these files/apps get overloaded and the brain can’t do the work of sorting things out and putting all the pieces of the event together. EMDR helps the brain organize these files and put all the pieces together. When the files/apps are finally organized, the “clicks” of everyday life won’t have the power to make us feel angry, sad, or shameful, or to think that we are not worthy or that we are not enough, or to make us yell, become aggressive or do things we regret later.
Ana M. Gomez, author of EMDR Therapy and Adjunct Approaches with Children: Complex Trauma, Attachment, and Dissociation
Conditions and Populations That EMDR Therapy Helps
EMDR therapy for trauma is the most common usage and the one that most people are familiar with. However, EMDR success rates are also high for anxiety, depression, panic attacks, eating disorders, phobias, and stress caused by chronic disease.
The following populations have used EMDR to support healing from trauma:
- People who have been a victim of a disaster (such as a violent crime, accident, natural disasters, fire, etc.)
- Clients who experience discomfort with social situations, public speaking, or medical procedures
- People dealing with grief and loss, due to death, divorce, or loss of a home
- Police officers and other frontline providers
- Children and adolescents who have experienced sexual abuse or rape
- Accident or burn victims
Given this broad range of applications, EMDR is a versatile modality for young people as well as adults.
Read “PTSD and Teen Trauma: Symptoms, Signs, and Treatment.”
The Development of EMDR
In 1987, Francine Shapiro was walking in a park when she noticed that moving her eyes from side to side seemed to reduce the intensity of distressing thoughts. Intrigued, she began investigating this phenomenon through research. Her first informal study with 70 volunteers revealed that eye movements alone did not produce therapeutic benefits—additional treatment elements were necessary.
Shapiro conducted a controlled study and published the results in the Journal of Traumatic Stress. The study involved 22 people suffering from traumatic memories related to a range of traumatic experiences—military combat, childhood sexual molestation, sexual or physical assault, and emotional abuse. They suffered intense symptoms, such as intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, sleep disturbances, low self-esteem, and relationship problems. Half of the subjects received EMDR, and the other half received therapy that did not include eye movements. Following therapy for trauma, the EMDR group’s traumatic memories were successfully desensitized. Furthermore, the way they thought about their past experiences had shifted as well. Participants in the EMDR group reported larger changes than those in the imagery group.
After further research and refinement, Shapiro published her textbook Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing: Basic Principles, Protocols and Procedures, detailing the eight phases of EMDR psychotherapy. Today, the EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) comprises more than 4,000 mental health professionals, and over 100,000 clinicians worldwide have completed formal EMDR training.
EMDR Success Rates
More than 30 controlled studies have assessed EMDR success rates. As a result of the research, it is well recognized for its ability to support people in healing from trauma. Furthermore, many mental health organizations recognize it as an effective form of treatment for trauma and other conditions. Specifically, organizations that recognize it as an effective modality include the American Psychiatric Association, the World Health Organization, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and the Department of Defense.
Key research findings include:
- A Veterans Affairs facility reported 78 percent remission in PTSD after 12 treatment sessions.
- A Kaiser Permanente–funded study found that 100 percent of single-trauma victims and 77 percent of multiple-trauma victims no longer met PTSD criteria after just six 50-minute sessions.
- Following a 7.2-magnitude earthquake in Mexico, participants treated with EMDR showed improvement in post-traumatic stress symptoms that held at a 12-week follow-up—even as frightening aftershocks continued.
- Among transportation employees who experienced “person-under-train” accidents or workplace assaults, 67 percent experienced PTSD remission after six sessions, compared to 11 percent in the control group.
- A randomized study of civilians reported 90 percent PTSD remission in sexual assault victims after just three 90-minute sessions.
Research on EMDR for Adolescent Mental Health Conditions
Studies on EMDR for teens show that this modality is effective for adolescents who are struggling with a wide range of mental health conditions. Here is a sampling of the research on how EMDR can help teens struggling with various disorders.
EMDR for Adolescent Trauma and PTSD
A review of multiple studies on EMDR for adolescent trauma and PTSD, published between 2002 and 2018, found that EMDR was effective in addressing PTSD arising from both single-event trauma and cumulative trauma such as sexual abuse. Notably, the researchers found that EMDR was equally effective across genders and cultural backgrounds.
EMDR for Adolescent Depression
In a 2019 study of EMDR for teens with major depressive disorder (MDD), 61 percent of participants no longer met the criteria for MDD after six weekly 60-minute sessions. At follow-up several months later, that number increased to 70 percent. An earlier small-scale study found complete remission from depressive symptoms in teens who participated in EMDR therapy. In both cases, researchers theorized that because the depression was rooted in underlying trauma, healing the trauma with EMDR also resolved the depression.
EMDR for Child Anxiety
Research has also examined EMDR’s impact on anxiety in young people. In a study focused on both PTSD and anxiety, children and teens showed significant improvements in anxiety levels alongside reductions in post-traumatic symptoms. As with depression, addressing the root cause, underlying trauma, is what ultimately drives positive change.
EMDR for ADHD in Children and Adolescents
Research points to a link between ADHD and childhood trauma. Because of this connection, healing from trauma through EMDR techniques can also improve ADHD symptoms. Additionally, improvements in co-occurring depression and anxiety as a result of EMDR treatment may further reduce ADHD-related difficulties.
“The World Health Organization recognizes EMDR as a first-choice treatment for PTSD. However, one of the biggest misconceptions about EMDR is that it’s only for trauma. EMDR can help anyone who has had negative beliefs about themself—and I don’t know anyone who hasn’t.”
Olivia Lynch, MS, LPC, Newport EMDR Program Training and Development Manager
How Trauma-Focused CBT Differs From Standard CBT
Parents researching therapy options for their teen will encounter terms like CBT, trauma-focused CBT (TF-CBT), and EMDR. Understanding the differences is important, because not all therapy is designed to address trauma—and trauma requires specialized treatment.
What Standard CBT Does Well
Standard cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the most widely studied and effective forms of psychotherapy. It focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors in the present. CBT teaches practical coping skills—like challenging negative automatic thoughts, managing stress, and building problem-solving abilities. It is highly effective for conditions such as generalized anxiety, mild to moderate depression, and phobias.
However, standard CBT was not specifically designed to process traumatic memories or address the neurobiological impact of trauma on the developing brain.
Why Trauma Requires a Specialized Approach
When a teen has experienced trauma, their symptoms are not simply the result of distorted thinking. Trauma fundamentally alters how the brain stores and retrieves memories. Traumatic experiences can become “stuck” in the nervous system, triggering intense emotional and physical reactions long after the event has passed. Standard CBT techniquesm ay not reach these deeply encoded memories.
Trauma-focused CBT (TF-CBT) was developed specifically for children and adolescents who have experienced significant trauma. It incorporates elements of standard CBT, such as cognitive restructuring and skill-building, but adds critical trauma-specific components: gradual exposure to trauma narratives, processing of traumatic grief, and structured involvement of caregivers. TF-CBT typically unfolds over 12 to 25 sessions and is supported by extensive research as an effective treatment for childhood PTSD.
How EMDR Differs From Both
EMDR takes a fundamentally different approach. Rather than relying on verbal processing of the trauma narrative, EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (primarily guided eye movements) to help the brain reprocess traumatic memories at a neurobiological level. Teens do not need to describe their traumatic experiences in detail, which can be especially important for adolescents who feel overwhelmed, ashamed, or unable to put their experiences into words.
The table below summarizes the key differences:
| Feature | Standard CBT | Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT) | EMDR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary focus | Changing thought patterns and behaviors | Processing trauma through narrative and coping skills | Reprocessing traumatic memories via bilateral stimulation |
| Verbal processing required | Yes | Yes (gradual trauma narrative) | Minimal—no detailed retelling needed |
| Designed for trauma | No | Yes | Yes |
| Caregiver involvement | Sometimes | Structured component | Not typically required |
| Typical duration for teens | 12–20 sessions | 12–25 sessions | 6–12 sessions (varies by complexity) |
| Evidence base for teen PTSD | Limited for PTSD specifically | Strong | Strong |
Both TF-CBT and EMDR are recognized by the World Health Organization and the American Psychological Association as effective treatments for PTSD. The best choice depends on the individual teen’s needs, preferences, and clinical presentation. In many comprehensive treatment programs, including Newport Academy’s, multiple modalities are used together within a personalized treatment plan. Newport Academy clinicians coordinate these modalities to fit each teen’s clinical needs.
Brainspotting vs. EMDR
The main difference between brainspotting and EMDR protocol is that they use slightly different types of eye movement to process underlying emotional issues. In EMDR therapy for trauma and other conditions, the eyes are directed to move from side to side. In brainspotting, the eyes remain fixed on particular points. Moreover, brainspotting often uses sound played through headphones, while EMDR sometimes uses tapping.
However, brainspotting and EMDR also have many similarities. Both modalities work by identifying, processing, and releasing neurobiological sources of trauma, dissociation, and other symptoms. In addition, both modalities focus on the client’s thoughts, memories, physical sensations, and emotions.
What Happens in an EMDR Session
Below, we look at the eight phases of the EMDR treatment approach. First, however, let’s examine how this approach integrates eye movement. To begin, clients identify a visual image related to the traumatic memory. They then focus on a negative belief about themselves, while noticing any difficult emotions and bodily sensations they are experiencing.
Next, the client identifies a positive belief. The practitioner then instructs the client to focus on the image, negative thought, and body sensations while simultaneously engaging in EMDR processing. The client focuses on the troubling image or negative thought while simultaneously moving their eyes back and forth. To prompt this eye moment, EMDR practitioners might move their fingers from side to side, tap their hand from side to side, or wave a wand. As a result, the client moves their eyes back and forth to follow the prompt.
During this processing, the client notices whatever thoughts, feelings, images, memories, or body sensations might arise. Subsequently, the client repeats these steps numerous times throughout the session. Additionally, if the client becomes distressed or has difficulty, the therapist follows procedures to help the client return to the processing work. Throughout these sets of eye movements, the brain makes associations and neural connections that help integrate the disturbing memory. Eventually, the distress associated with the memory dissolves. At this point, the practitioner directs the client to focus on the positive belief they identified at the beginning of the session.
Next, the client may adjust the positive belief if necessary. Then they focus on this positive belief while processing the next set of targeted memories. Research suggests that the repeated redirection of attention caused by the eye movements used in EMDR creates a neurobiological state that resembles REM sleep.
“EMDR induces a fundamental change in brain circuitry, similar to what happens in REM sleep, that allows the person undergoing treatment to more effectively process and incorporate traumatic memories. This helps the individual integrate and understand the memories within the larger context of [their] life experience.”
—Robert Stickgold, PhD, Harvard Medical School
What to Expect in an EMDR Session: The Eight Phases of EMDR Treatment
EMDR follows an eight-phase treatment process. The number of sessions required varies based on the client’s history, the age of trauma onset, and the number of traumatic events experienced. Some experts note that clients with a single incident of trauma may need as few as five hours of treatment, while those with complex or childhood trauma typically require a longer course.
Phase 1: History Taking and Treatment Planning
In the first phase, the EMDR therapist assesses the client’s readiness and establishes trust. In addition, they work with them to develop a treatment plan. Together, the client and therapist identify distressing memories and current situations that could benefit from EMDR processing. Moreover, the treatment plan focuses on helping the client develop skills. This helps them establish healthy behaviors for coping with future situations.
Phase 2: Preparation
During the Preparation phase, the clinician explains the theory of EMDR, how it is done, and what to expect during and after treatment. Moreover, the therapist helps the client learn ways of handling emotional distress. Consequently, the therapist may teach the client a variety of imagery and stress-reduction techniques to use during and between sessions. Therefore, the client has a greater chance of emotional stability throughout.
Phase 3: Assessment
Subsequently, the practitioner and the client use EMDR therapy techniques to process particular “targets.” That is traumatic incidents or memories. Moreover, they identify positive replacements for these negative memories. The client rates their belief in these positive replacements using the Validity of Cognition (VOC) scale, in which 1 equals “completely false,” and 7 equals “completely true.”
Phase 4: Desensitization
This phase focuses on desensitization. This includes the eye movement technique described above. This process continues until the client reports that the memory is no longer distressing.
Phase 5: Installation
In this phase, the client focuses on positive emotions and beliefs to replace those created by the trauma. In addition, they again use the VOC scale to determine whether they accept the positive statements as truth. Ideally, the client accepts the full truth of their positive self-statement at a level of 7 (completely true).
Phase 6: Body Scan
The client performs a body scan to assess sensations and tension. Therefore, they can determine whether the trauma has been processed. This phase references research indicating that trauma is stored in the body, not just the mind.
Phase 7: Closure
In this phase of closure, the therapist assists the client in using a variety of self-calming techniques. Hence, the goal is to regain a sense of equilibrium. Moreover, the therapist may ask the client to keep a log during the week. In addition, the log documents any related symptoms, thoughts, etc. that the client may experience. Furthermore, it is a reminder for the client of the coping skills and self-calming activities.
Phase 8: Reevaluation
Finally, in phase eight, the client and practitioner examine the progress. Typically, they do this at the beginning of each session. Therefore, they can evaluate progress and determine which targets to address next.
EMDR Adolescent Treatment at Newport Academy
EMDR for trauma and other mental health conditions is part of Newport Academy’s comprehensive trauma-informed care for teens. At Newport Academy, EMDR is one of a variety of evidence-based modalities incorporated into our integrated model of care.
Each client has a tailored treatment plan integrating EMDR sessions with trained and experienced therapists. Teen treatment plans also include CBT, DBT, family therapy, and experiential activities like Adventure Therapy and creative arts therapies.
Our clinical model views trauma as the root cause of mental health disorders and behavioral issues. Hence, we ensure that every teen who comes to us has safe and effective ways to process emotions and past experiences, so they can move forward with confidence and healthy coping skills. Contact us today to learn more about treatment approach.
Key Takeaways
- EMDR helps resolve and release traumatic experiences through specific techniques involving eye movement and memory, which are related to the biological mechanisms activated in Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep.
- Studies on EMDR for teens show that this modality is effective for adolescents who are struggling with a wide range of mental health conditions, including trauma and PTSD, depression, anxiety, and possibly ADHD as well.
- In an EMDR session, the therapist works with teens by asking them to focus on specific images, thoughts, and body sensations while simultaneously moving their eyes back and forth as directed.
- An EMDR session involves an eight-phase treatment process. The number of sessions needed varies according to the client’s needs and history. Research shows improvement and even full remission can take place in as few as six sessions.
- At Newport Academy, EMDR for adolescents, facilitated by trained and experienced therapists, is an essential aspect of each client’s tailored treatment plan.
Frequently Asked Questions About EMDR for Adolescents
FAQs
The duration of EMDR therapy depends on the nature and complexity of the teen’s trauma. For a single traumatic incident—such as an accident or one-time assault—some teens may see significant improvement in as few as three to six sessions. Adolescents with complex or repeated trauma, such as ongoing abuse or multiple adverse childhood experiences, typically require a longer course of treatment, often ranging from 12 to 24 sessions or more. Each session generally lasts between 50 and 90 minutes.
Trauma-focused therapies vary in duration. Trauma-focused CBT (TF-CBT) typically involves 12 to 25 sessions, while EMDR may produce results more quickly for some teens—particularly those with single-incident trauma. The overall length of treatment depends on factors including the severity and duration of the trauma, the teen’s age, co-occurring mental health conditions, and the strength of their support system. A qualified clinician will regularly reassess progress and adjust the treatment plan accordingly.
Signs that EMDR is producing positive change include a reduction in the intensity and frequency of distressing memories, fewer nightmares or flashbacks, improved mood and emotional regulation, and greater willingness to engage in daily activities and relationships. The therapist will use clinical assessment tools—such as the VOC scale and subjective distress ratings—at each session to track progress. Parents may also notice behavioral improvements at home and school. If progress stalls, the therapist can adjust the treatment approach or integrate additional modalities.
Yes. EMDR is recognized as a safe and effective treatment for children and adolescents by the World Health Organization and multiple professional psychiatric and psychological associations. The therapy is non-invasive and does not require medication. Trained EMDR therapists use age-appropriate techniques and built-in stabilization strategies to ensure teens feel safe and supported throughout the process.
Absolutely. In fact, combining EMDR with other evidence-based approaches—such as CBT, DBT, family therapy, and experiential therapies—often produces the best outcomes for teens. At Newport Academy, EMDR is integrated into a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to each adolescent’s unique needs, ensuring that trauma processing is supported by skill-building, relational healing, and holistic wellness practices.
Both EMDR and TF-CBT are strongly supported by research for treating adolescent PTSD and trauma. The best choice depends on your teen’s individual needs and preferences. EMDR may be a better fit for teens who are reluctant to talk about their experiences in detail, while TF-CBT may be preferable when structured caregiver involvement is a priority. A thorough clinical assessment by a qualified therapist can help determine which approach—or combination of approaches—is most appropriate. Many treatment programs, including Newport Academy, offer both modalities within an integrated care model.
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