EMDR for Kids: Adapting the 8 Phases

Ready to bring more play, creativity, and confidence into your EMDR work with children? This dynamic training invites EMDR-trained clinicians to reimagine the 8 phases of EMDR therapy through the lens of developmentally responsive, play-based practices.

Together, we’ll explore how to stay grounded in the standard EMDR protocol while weaving in the therapeutic powers of play. Through demonstration and rich clinical discussion, you’ll discover playful and practical non-directive and directive strategies that help children (and their grown-ups) feel safe, empowered, and actively involved in the healing process.

Join Christine Mark-Griffin, LCSW, RPT, Certified EMDR clinician, EMDRIA-Approved Consultant, and author of EMDR Workbook for Kids for this engaging 6.5-hour training designed to strengthen and expand your confidence in providing EMDR therapy with children.




Learning Objectives: 

  • Describe the 8 phases of EMDR therapy using play-based and child-friendly developmentally attuned language.
  • Distinguish between applying the standard EMDR protocol with adults and adapting it thoughtfully for children and adolescents with play therapy interventions.
  • Explain how EMDR therapy can be integrated with the therapeutic powers of play
  • Summarize developmentally appropriate interventions that support each phase of EMDR therapy—from preparation through reprocessing and integration.
  • Identify when and how to meaningfully engage parents and caregivers in child-focused EMDR therapy
  • Engage in play therapy intervention (such as sandtray, expressive arts, storytelling, or symbolic play) to support regulation, target development, or bilateral stimulation within an EMDR session.

Target Audience:

  • Social Workers 
  • Psychologists 
  • Counselors 
  • Marriage & Family Therapists 
  • Other Mental Health Professionals 
  • *Participants must have completed EMDR Basic Training*

Skill Level: Intermediate/Advanced

Duration: 6.5 Hours

Ce: Approved for 6.5 CEs, EMDRIA Credits & APT Credit (Non-Contact)







Example Curriculum

  Welcome to the EMDR For Kids
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  Introduction
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  Phase One
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  Phase Two
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  Phase Three
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  Phase Four
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  Phase Five
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  Phase Six
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  Phase Seven
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  Phase Eight
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  Post-Test & Evaluation
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  Refer your EMDR Besties
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Get started by enrolling below!

Testimonials

  • "This EMDR training is very engaging and thorough. The amazing graphics, step-by-step instructions and video examples have helped me to effectively incorporate EMDR into my play therapy practice. I feel so much more confident use EMDR into my sessions with kids and teens. I highly recommend this course to other therapists using EMDR." -Belinda W.


  • "Learned so many new ways to explain and be creative with children. Can't wait to sing songs with the little ones" (and the older ones). -Fabiola O.


  • "It was a truly phenomenal training. Well presented and very informative. Taught in a super helpful and easy-to-understand way!" -Briana P.


  • "This was one of the best trainings I have ever been to. The visuals were aesthetically pleasing and helped keep me engaged. I loved the videos, and have already tried some of the strategies just 1 day after the training. Thank you for your innovation, Christine!" -Sarah A.


  • "Wonderful training! Very well presented. Christine's expertise and passion were evident. The viewing of her in sessions with her own clients was extremely helpful!" -Jheri S.





APT and EMDRIA Provider​



EMDR for Kids
APT Approved Provider 25-800




EC Provider #22045