EMDR and Neurodiversity affirming approaches with Anna Clarke

Apr 15, 2024

In this conversation with Anna Clarke, a dedicated psychologist and play therapist, listeners explore the world of neurodiversity-affirming therapy. Anna shares their personal journey, emphasizing the significance of understanding autism and ADHD in therapeutic settings. They discuss the unique challenges neurodiverse clients face in EMDR therapy and the importance of tailored, trauma-informed approaches. Anna also highlights available training resources and the essential role of affirming language in supporting these clients' therapeutic experiences.

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ANECDOTE

Anna's Journey

Anna Clarke discusses her journey into EMDR and neurodiversity.
She worked with out-of-home care and became passionate about trauma-informed practice.

INSIGHT

Challenging Biases

Anna's colleagues, mostly autistic or ADHD, suggested she get assessed.
This led to her diagnosis and a realization of common neurodiversity myths.

INSIGHT

Trauma and Neurodiversity

Neurodivergent individuals are more prone to trauma due to societal disadvantages.
Their brains function differently, leading to social exclusion and other challenges.

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On today’s episode we yarn together with Anna Clarke. Anna helps us to better understand Neurodiversity affirming practice and shares her story with us. Anna and her company https://www.divergentfutures.com/ have some incredible resources and trainings on offer - check em out!

Anna Clarke (they/them)

Anna is a Psychologist and Play Therapist with a passion for supporting children and young people. With a background in Out of Home Care, they are passionate about the transformative powers of play in building healthier relationships and supporting emotion regulation. Anna holds a Master in Child Play Therapy and collaborates with parents, carers, schools, and stakeholders to provide collaborative care. They are passionate about early intervention, approaching behaviours through a trauma-informed and Neurodiversity-Affirming lens.

Anna actively advocates for Neurodiversity-Affirming approaches to therapy. Anna is also experienced working with survivors of sexual assault and family violence. They are currently part of the Witness Intermediary Pilot Scheme within the Tasmanian Department of Justice, where they conduct communication assessments during police interviews and court proceedings.

Anna is an EMDRAA Accredited Consultant and has undertaken advanced training in EMDR Therapy. Anna is an active member of the Australian EMDR Therapy community, contributing through collaborative research, facilitating a Neurodiversity-Affirming EMDR Peer Group, and providing support for therapists wishing to integrate Neurodiversity-Affirming practise into EMDR Therapy.

As Co-Director of Divergent Futures, they offer education, training, and consulting in Neurodiversity-Affirming practice. Anna is an experienced public speaker, addressing topics such as violent behaviours, trauma-informed care, managing power imbalances in therapy, and strengths-based treatment for eating disorders.

Outside of their professional pursuits, Anna enjoys hiking in the Tasmanian bush, reading, boxing, and art.

Workshop link

https://www.divergentfutures.com/training

EMDR peer group link

https://www.divergentfutures.com/consultation/emdr

Resources link

https://www.divergentfutures.com/resources