Trust and Attunement-Focused EMDR With a Child
Using EMDR therapy informed by attachment and neuroscience research about the importance of safety (trust) and relationship (attunement).
Article Abstract
This qualitative case study explores using eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy informed by attachment and neuroscience research about the importance of safety (trust) and relationship (attunement). This was chosen to enable a young child to create vital positive neural networks and process early trauma while remaining within the window of receptivity, despite issues of avoidance and control. A single case study design was used with a 5-year-old child who experienced early traumas. Observable symptoms included separation anxiety, avoidance, compromised motor skills, and compromised speech. Data were obtained from carer, child, and teacher report, notes, observations, case file, ratings of emotions, and behaviors. The data were explored for outcome data points, validity, and protocol adherence. Key findings were that EMDR used with attunement and trust-building strategies appeared to support developmental progress while facilitating pervasive posttraumatic growth. EMDR appears to offer appropriate opportunities for incorporating neuroscience and attachment research in order to facilitate trauma processing. Future research into EMDR storytelling procedures and possible causative relationships between trust-building and attunement with neurodevelopmental markers would be a possible next step.
—Description from publisher
Article Access
Open Access
Rathore, H. E. (2018). Trust and Attunement-Focused EMDR With a Child. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 12(4), 255–268. https://doi.org/10.1891/1933-3196.12.4.255
About the Journal
The Journal of EMDR Practice and Research is a peer-reviewed publication devoted to integrative, state-of-the-art papers about Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It is a broadly conceived interdisciplinary journal that stimulates and communicates research and theory about EMDR, and their application to clinical practice. The Journal of EMDR Practice and Research is the Official Publication of the EMDR International Association.
Date
December 1, 2018
Creator(s)
Helen E. Rathore
Topics
Attachment
Client Population
Children
Practice & Methods
Neurobiology
Extent
14 pages
Publisher
Springer Publishing Company
Rights
Copyright © 2018 EMDR International Association
APA Citation
Rathore, H. E. (2018). Trust and Attunement-Focused EMDR With a Child. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 12(4), 255–268. https://doi.org/10.1891/1933-3196.12.4.255
Series
12
Installment
4
Audience
EMDR Therapists
Language
English
Content Type
Peer-Reviewed
Original Source
Journal of EMDR Practice and Research
Access Type
Open Access