A combined approach: Using EMDR within a framework of solution focused brief therapy

This paper reports on a qualitative, exploratory study that creatively combined two therapeutic approaches: eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR) and solution focused brief therapy. It was expected that the use of techniques drawn from solution focused brief therapy could help children to facilitate and enhance the use of techniques within EMDR. In particular, techniques focusing on current and future positive resource installation were utilised. Five primary school children age 9 to 11 years were identified by class teachers and parents as presenting as shy, anxious and lacking self-confidence. The group intervention took place in school over six sessions. Within the group setting, the children targeted their own individual area that they wished to improve. Data were collected during and after each session and post-intervention. Increases in children’s self confidence and an improvement in targeted areas were reported by children, parents and teachers. Children found the intervention helpful and were able to identify particular aspects of solution focused brief therapy and EMDR that were useful.

Journal

English

Pam Grandison

Grandison, P. (2007). A combined approach: Using EMDR within a framework of solution focused brief therapy. Educational and Child Psychology, 24(1), 56-64