Effectively managing the closure and re-evaluation phase with parents

Popcorn Night is a term that was coined to assist caregivers in providing a calm and comfortable night for their child following a desensitization session. Following the reprocessing of a memory, the therapist works with the caregivers to manage the possible emerging behaviors and assist with a log to track any changes in symptomology. Engaging caregivers and other outside support in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy with kids leads to better outcomes as it provides additional support and additional information about the child's functioning. Popcorn Night is an instructional handout and log that helps guide caregivers in structuring a carefree and supportive evening after desensitization and track emerging symptoms or behaviors in the time between sessions. It is important to be transparent, flexible, and hopeful with this intervention as it can both inform treatment and encourage commitment to continued growth through EMDR.

Book Section

English

Annie Monaco

Monaco, A. (2021). Effectively managing the closure and re-evaluation phase with parents. In Ann Beckley-Forest and Annie Monaco (Eds.), EMDR With Children in the Play Therapy Room: An Integrated Approach (pp. 401-412). New York, NY: Springer Publishing Company. doi:10.1891/9780826175939.0020