Understanding Reactions to Trauma
We are naturally wired to heal and adapt. When subjected to trauma(s), our brains and bodies work in tandem to adapt and survive. Nevertheless, the way we respond to trauma can be confusing and disorienting; we can experience intense or overwhelming fear, we can lose memory or zone out, we can view ourselves ‘out of body’. Once we are out of immediate danger, the same brain/body adaptation that helped us get through the unimaginable experience can also start getting in our way of becoming fully alive. Lingering effects of trauma, such as flashbacks, hypervigilance, nightmares, and numbness can significantly impact our well-being and overall quality of life. Reactions to trauma are highly individual and diverse, as there is no universally ‘normal’ response.
What is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR, short for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is a powerful tool to help facilitate our innate ability to heal so that we can be in the present moment and fully engage in our lives. It is a methodical and predictable form of psychotherapy that targets trauma responses and nervous system reactions associated with traumatic experiences by reshaping the way they are processed and stored.
EMDR engages a series of body-based techniques, including bilateral stimulations, to help desensitize the emotional charge associated with traumatic memories. Bilateral stimulation is often through eye movements, which activates the brain similarly to what happens during REM sleep, but it can also involve other forms of sensory input like tapping, using ‘buzzies,’ or auditory input. This supports the brain to reframe these experiences in a more adaptive and less distressing way. We do not take away trauma, but we work to take away its power over our lives.
EMDR is effective in addressing a wide range of challenges, such as anxiety, depression, dissociative disorders, early attachment trauma, PTSD, Complex PTSD, addiction, history of abuse, and more. It can also be used to enhance emotional resources such as emotion regulation, confidence and self-esteem.
Neurodivergent-affirming EMDR
The EMDR process is structured, but adaptable.
Many neurodivergent individuals have co-occurring traits like alexithymia, aphantasia, hyperphantasia, interoception challenges, and sensory processing differences. Our therapists understand this and through a neurodivergent-affirming lens, they adjust the style and format of traditional EMDR therapy to suit the specific needs and circumstances of each client.
In addition, various therapeutic modalities, such as DBT (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy), parts work (including Internal Family Systems, Ego State Therapy, or the Progressive Approach), Somatic Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Play Therapy, mindfulness, and psychoeducation, may also be incorporated into the therapeutic process when appropriate.
How Can EMDR Help Neurodivergent Individuals?
Neurodivergent individuals often grapple with a unique set of challenges that can lead to various forms of trauma. These may include:
Enduring bullying.
A persistent sense of not fitting in/feeling inherently different from others.
Trauma of not being believed by others.
Coping with constant criticism and/or rejection.
Recurring sensory overload (e.g. auditory, tactile, etc.).
Masking.
Burnout.
Meltdowns, and more…
Neurodivergent-affirming EMDR can be effective in addressing these experiences, offering individuals the opportunity to live with greater freedom and embrace their neurodivergent ways of being.
For Autistic folks, ADHDers, PDAers, and otherwise neurodivergent individuals, Neurodivergent-Affirming EMDR can be especially beneficial as it supports a person’s unique way of processing information. Neurodivergent brains are beautiful in this way, and this approach allows you to ‘reprocess’ in your own way, not having to force it in a ‘typical’ or neuro-normative way.
Getting Started
Our therapists will help you understand how EMDR works for Autistic, ADHD or AuDHD or PDA brains, and whether it's a good fit for you. Book a free consultation with one of our EMDR therapists.
““Trauma is a chronic disruption of connectedness.”
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