EMDR & Neurodiversity

I use EMDR as one tool within therapy for my autistic and ADHD clients. Many neurodivergent people have been bullied, overwhelmed by their sensory environment or misunderstood for years. That stress builds up in the body, and EMDR can help the nervous system settle. EMDR is not a primary focus of my practice. If your main concern is PTSD or significant trauma, I’ll gladly refer you to a trauma specialist.

Note: I have completed EMDR basic training and am not a certified EMDR provider. For a certified provider, see the directories at the bottom of this page.

What Is EMDR?

EMDR helps the brain reprocess traumatic memories and connect them with healthier, more adaptive beliefs, which improves nervous system regulation. It’s based on Francine Shapiro’s Adaptive Information Processing model. After successful EMDR therapy, people typically experience less emotional distress, more balanced beliefs about themselves and a calmer body. (EMDR Institute)

  • This video explains the basics of EMDR.
  • The EMDR International Association has an excellent summary of EMDR.
Polyvagal Theory

The chart below shows how the nervous system escalates under stress, as described by Polyvagal Theory. People who have experienced chronic stress or trauma, such as bullying or ongoing sensory overwhelm, can stay stuck in the red and blue zones. Over time, that takes a real toll. EMDR helps the nervous system return to a regulated state.

EMDR with Neurodivergent Clients

      Research suggests that autistic people experience PTSD at higher rates than non-autistic people, and that trauma is often overlooked because clinicians don’t always screen for it. Autistic people are more likely to face bullying and mistreatment, and they often experience “small traumas,” events that are deeply distressing to them but don’t fit traditional definitions of trauma. These can include sudden changes in routine, other people breaking rules, confusing situations and sensory overwhelm. (Fisher et al., Autism, 2023)

        Finding a Certified EMDR Provider