Trauma, Attachment Styles and ADHD with Elaine Evans

Summary In this episode Johanna and Elaine from Third Place Therapy discuss trauma, attachment styles, and the intersectionality of neurodivergence, attachment, and trauma. Elaine provides a definition of trauma as anything that overwhelms our ability to cope, emphasising that trauma is subjective and unique to each individual. They also explore the different attachment styles (anxious, avoidant, secure, and disorganized) and how they can impact relationships, particularly in the context of neurodivergence. Additionally, they touch on the use of EMDR therapy as a tool for healing trauma and the importance of neuro-affirming approaches in therapy. In this conversation, Johanna and Elaine discuss the intersection of attachment styles and neurodivergence. They explore how neurodivergent individuals may struggle more with attachment styles and tend to have more insecure attachments. They also discuss the importance of neuro-affirming approaches in attachment work and the need for adjustments in understanding and meeting the needs of neurodivergent children. The conversation highlights the Circle of Security framework and the four S's of secure attachment: being seen, soothed, safe, and secure. They also touch on the impact of trauma on attachment and the overlap between trauma symptoms and ADHD. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the importance of therapy in unpacking and healing attachment and trauma issues. Keywords trauma, attachment styles, ADHD, autism, CPTSD, EMDR therapy, neurodivergence, attachment styles, neurodivergence, insecure attachments, neuro-affirming, Circle of Security, four S's of secure attachment, trauma, ADHD, therapy Takeaways -Trauma is subjective and unique to each individual, defined as anything that overwhelms our ability to cope. -Attachment styles (anxious, avoidant, secure, disorganized) can impact relationships, especially in the context of neurodivergence. -EMDR therapy, which stands for eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, can be an effective tool for healing trauma. -Neuro-affirming approaches in therapy are important for individuals with neurodivergence. -There is an intersectionality between ADHD, autism, and CPTSD, and individuals with ADHD are more prone to experiencing trauma. -Neurodivergent individuals may struggle more with attachment styles and tend to have more insecure attachments. -Neuro-affirming approaches are important in attachment work, especially for neurodivergent children. -There is overlap between trauma symptoms and ADHD, and it is important to consider both in therapy. Sound Bites "Trauma can be defined as anything that overwhelms our ability to cope." "Trauma can be something that is too much too soon, too much for too long, or too little for too long." "EMDR stands for eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, and it helps facilitate memory reconsolidation." "Being seen, being soothed, being safe and secure." To get more information about Elaine and her services visit @thirdplacetherapy or www.thirdplacetherapy.com Follow @adhderway and contact us via hello@holisticwellnesspsychology.com.au. We love to hear from you!

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