Trauma Knows No Bounds: EMDR for Youth, Teens, and Adults
- Trauma and Grief Institute
- Jul 31
- 2 min read
Trauma is not bound by age. It can emerge from early experiences, take root during adolescence, or resurface decades later. At the Trauma and Grief Institute (TGI), we understand that healing requires an approach that is developmentally informed and grounded in safety. That’s why we offer specialized trauma therapy for clients aged 10 and up, using tools like EMDR, somatic therapy, and grief-informed care—tailored to each life stage.
Youth (Ages 10–12): Regulation Through Connection
Children may struggle to articulate what they’re feeling—but their bodies and behaviors often reveal the imprint of trauma. At TGI, we use body-based tools, EMDR for youth, and Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) to help children regulate their nervous systems and feel safe in their environment again.
Our work with young clients is grounded in connection. By co-regulating with a safe adult in the therapy room, youth can begin to unlearn fear and internal chaos, replacing it with trust, grounding, and security.
Teens: Supporting Identity, Expression, and Boundaries
Adolescence is a time of self-discovery—but when trauma intervenes, it can disrupt the formation of identity, boundaries, and emotional regulation. TGI offers trauma therapy for teens, creating a space where teens feel heard, respected, and empowered.
Our Ottawa-based therapists integrate EMDR, expressive arts therapy, psychoeducation, and somatic tools to help teens process their experiences and regain a sense of agency. Whether they’re navigating the effects of family conflict, peer dynamics, or past abuse, our team walks alongside them with both structure and compassion.
Adults: Unwinding Long-Held Patterns using EMDR
Many adults come to therapy after carrying unresolved trauma for years—often silently. These experiences can show up as anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, chronic pain, or burnout. At TGI, our trauma-informed services for adults support deep healing through EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), somatic psychotherapy, and grief work.
Our therapists are experienced in helping clients safely access and reprocess trauma, while also strengthening present-day functioning and restoring hope. We also work with clients navigating vicarious trauma and compassion fatigue, especially those in helping professions.
Why It Matters
Trauma doesn’t look the same for everyone—but the need for safety, regulation, and connection is universal. TGI’s age-appropriate approaches ensure that every client—whether 10 or 65—is met with skill, compassion, and the right therapeutic tools for where they are in life.
We are proud to serve youth, teens, and adults across Ottawa and Ontario with evidence-based trauma therapy that acknowledges the complexity of individual experiences while guiding each person toward relief and renewal.
Adults, Teens, Youth - begin your healing journey today!
Whether you’re seeking support for your child, teen, or yourself, the Trauma and Grief Institute is here to help. Our experienced team provides compassionate, age-appropriate trauma therapy rooted in EMDR, somatic practices, and relational care.
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