The challenges of using EMDR with refugee and asylum seeking children/adolescents

This paper discusses the use of EMDR with refugee and asylum seeking children and adolescents using clinical case examples and shares the clinician’s own personal reflections on the lessons learned. The challenges of working with this group are explored drawing on research findings as well as the clinician’s experiences. Language and cultural differences can act as barriers to assessing children’s mental health or their suitability for EMDR even though in some cases it might be thought of as the treatment of choice. Working with Interpreters is often a key feature of this therapeutic work. The challenges are discussed with direct reference to The British Psychology Society’s recently published guidelines. There are ongoing stresses for these children and young people associated with displacement and their current situation in the UK. These stresses contribute to their psychological distress. Fear of being sent home or mistrust may also prevent them from providing full and accurate information hindering the clinician from obtaining an accurate assessment or trauma history. The importance of good therapeutic skills as the basis of an EMDR Approach is highlighted drawing upon a host of interventions (behavioural, physical, cognitive and motivational) to support clients in building up their own resources so that they can manage their distress between sessions. The therapist’s role in managing expressed emotions within the sessions is examined, not forgetting the impact of this on the therapist.

Conference

English

M. Burns

Burns, M. (2009, March). The challenges of using EMDR with refugee and asylum seeking children/adolescents. Symposium conducted the 7th EMDR Association UK & Ireland Annual Conference, Manchester, UK