EMDR is a highly effective therapy technique used to decrease emotional distress. It is used to treat a variety of issues including trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, panic, chronic pain, and more. Part of the procedure involves using bilateral eye movements, tones, or taps to reprocess distressing memories. During treatment, clients generally experience new insights, changes in memories, or new, positive associations. EMDR is often considered a breakthrough therapy as it provides relief from emotional distress in a shorter amount of time than traditional therapies.

For more information on EMDR, go to http://www.emdr.com

Play therapy is a structured, theoretically based approach to therapy that builds on the normal communicative and learning processes of children (Carmichael, 2006; Landreth, 2002; O’Connor & Schaefer, 1983). The curative powers inherent in play are used in many ways. Therapists strategically utilize play therapy to help children express what is troubling them when they do not have the verbal language to express their thoughts and feelings (Gil, 1991). In play therapy, toys are like the child’s words and play is the child’s language (Landreth, 2002). Through play, therapists may help children learn more adaptive behaviors when there are emotional or social skills deficits (Pedro-Carroll & Reddy, 2005). The positive relationship that develops between therapist and child during play therapy sessions provides a corrective emotional experience necessary for healing (Moustakas, 1997). Play therapy may also be used to promote cognitive development and provide insight about and resolution of inner conflicts or dysfunctional thinking in the child (O’Connor & Schaefer, 1983; Reddy, Files-Hall & Schaefer, 2005).

For more information on Play Therapy, go to http://www.a4pt.org/ps.index.cfm?ID=1653

Trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy is a therapeutic treatment approach used to help children, adolescents, and their caretakers overcome trauma-related difficulties. This therapy helps to reduce negative emotional and behavioral responses following child sexual abuse and other traumatic events. It also aids non-abusive caretakers in coping with their own emotional distress and learning new skills to help their child recover from trauma.

For more information on TF-CBT, go to http://www.childwelfare.gov/pubs/trauma/

Canine Assisted Therapy is the interaction of children or adults with a therapy dog. Studies have shown that being with dogs decreases stress, relieves depression and anxiety, and helps normalize difficult situations. It is also particularly helpful with children who have difficulty trusting adults or for those who have been through traumatic experiences. Having a specially trained dog in the therapy room can help children and adults feel more comfortable throughout the therapy process.

For more information on Canine Assisted Therapy, go to http://www.equine-therapy-programs.com/canine-assisted-therapy.html