Healing the Little Self: Why Imaginative Interweaves Matter in Trauma Work

When childhood trauma goes unresolved, it doesn’t just fade away. It shows up later in life as anxiety, relationship struggles, or that inner voice that never feels “good enough.” Many of my clients describe carrying a younger version of themselves inside — a little self that is still waiting to feel safe, seen, and protected.

In EMDR therapy, one of the most powerful ways to reach that inner child is through an approach called the imaginative interweave.

Why This Matters for Trauma Healing

Trauma often leaves clients “stuck” — looping in memories, unable to move forward in reprocessing. Imaginative interweaves can gently shift the process by:

• Offering new perspectives the child never had access to
• Bringing in safety, compassion, or protection when it was missing
• Unlocking the nervous system so healing can continue

These small yet powerful interventions can help clients find relief where talk therapy alone might not reach.

A Tool for Therapists

For therapists, especially those working with first responders, veterans, or survivors of childhood adversity, imaginative interweaves can be the missing link. They offer a creative, compassionate pathway to help clients reprocess and heal without becoming overwhelmed.

🎥 Want to Learn More?

I created the Healing the Little Self video training to give therapists clear guidance and demonstrations on how to bring imaginative interweaves into practice.

👉 Watch the full course here

Inside, you’ll learn:

• How to apply this imaginative  interweave and how it fits into the EMDR process.
• Questions and Answers to challenges that often come up.

Final Thought

Every client has a younger self longing to be healed. As therapists, we can help that part finally feel safe — and when that happens, the adult self can truly thrive.

‍