Untangling Complex Trauma, Dissociation, and Neurodiversity

Neurodiverse people can experience early and chronic trauma; in fact, they may experience early trauma more often than neurotypical individuals. Neurodivergence can be a source of trauma, as can the responses of those around them. Inadequate support systems often leave neurodiverse clients vulnerable to abuse and neglect, and less able to rely on those around them when they are mistreated.

Often mental health professionals may feel at a loss as to how to support neurodiverse clients with complex trauma. Like in the case of those with difficulties with emotional and behavioural regulation who become more dysregulated when traumatized and have difficulty connecting with appropriate social skills, trust, and connection with others. This training will expand the knowledge, awareness, and skills of professionals who work with neurodiverse populations.

In this training participants will increase understanding about the intersection between trauma and neurodiversity; and learn more on how existing treatment is adapted to these populations. There will be opportunities to discuss treatment ideas and recommendations in a clinical context.

The trainer brings a combination of lived experience and 35 years as a psychotherapist working with traumatized children, youth and adults, many of whom experienced neurodiversity; both diagnosed and un-diagnosed.

Learning Outcomes

1. Describe shared characteristics of complex trauma, dissociation, and neurodiversity.
2. Assess neurodiverse clients who have experienced complex trauma.
3. Manage and respond to complex trauma when experienced by neurodiverse individuals.
4. Learn how existing treatments can be adapted to support neurodiverse individuals.
5. Use strategies to engage and form helping relationships with this client population