Implementing the Sleeping Dogs Method in Engaging Young People in Residential Care in EMDR

Abstract

Young people in residential care in Australia have generally experienced significant childhood trauma and neglect. Consequently, they present with a range of complex and challenging behaviours that pose a risk to themselves and others. Numerous reports have emphasised the need for trauma therapy for children; however, young people in residential care frequently do not access effective therapeutic services. In this article, the authors detail and reflect on the implementation of a treatment package of the Sleeping Dogs method plus Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) to engage young people living in residential care in EMDR therapy to process their complex trauma. IMPLICATIONS An integrated treatment package of Sleeping Dogs method with intensive EMDR can overcome the barriers to the successful implementation of evidence-based trauma treatment with young people living in residential care. Implementation requires collaboration between all systems surrounding the young person and compassionate engagement with families and carers.