As parents, we all want our children to feel safe, happy, and connected. But sometimes, hard experiences—like accidents, big changes, or stressful family events—can leave children feeling “stuck.” These moments can show up as big emotions, meltdowns, withdrawal, or challenges in school and relationships.
At our practice, we combine EMDR Therapy and Play Therapy, always looking through the lens of attachment(relationships) and nervous system regulation (how our bodies respond to stress). This unique approach helps children not only process tough experiences but also feel calmer, safer, and more connected to the people who matter most.
Why Attachment and Regulation Are Important
Children grow best in the safety of loving, supportive relationships. When that sense of safety is shaken, kids may rely on survival responses like fight, flight, or shut down. These are natural protective instincts, but when they get “stuck,” children may struggle to feel calm or trust that they’re safe.
That’s where therapy comes in. By supporting children (and parents) with tools for calming the body and strengthening connection, we create the foundation for deeper healing.
EMDR Therapy for Children
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a proven therapy that helps the brain and body process tough or overwhelming memories. For kids, EMDR can be done with creativity—using art, stories, or play—to make it feel safe and approachable.
This way, children can begin to “unstick” from the hard experiences of the past and feel freer in the present.
Why Play Matters in Healing
Play is how children naturally express themselves. Through play, kids can show us what they’re feeling, experiment with problem-solving, and learn new ways of coping.
Play Therapy gives children a safe space to explore emotions and practice calming strategies with the support of a caring therapist. When we weave EMDR into Play Therapy, children can process their stories in a way that feels natural and not overwhelming.
How It All Comes Together
Attachment Lens: We help children feel safe and connected with their caregivers.
Regulation Tools: Kids (and parents) learn simple, practical ways to calm big feelings.
EMDR + Play: Trauma healing becomes child-friendly, engaging, and effective.
The result? Children begin to feel safer in their bodies, more connected in relationships, and more confident in facing life’s challenges.
A Note to Parents
If your child is struggling after a stressful or traumatic experience, you are not alone. Healing takes time, but with the right support, children can learn to regulate their feelings, feel safe again, and grow stronger in their relationships.
We’re here to support both children and families on this journey—helping your child move from feeling “stuck” to feeling secure, connected, and resilient.
Feeling ready to explore how I can support your child? Complete a contact form today or schedule your free 15 minute consult call with me, Hanna!