Healing Science
A blog linking current research with healing
Welcome to the Healing Science Blog—a space where science meets compassion. Every post here is written through a trauma-informed, neurodivergent-affirming lens and backed by current research. You’ll find evidence-based insights into IFS therapy, EMDR, Brainspotting, and mental health support for neurodivergent adults, with full citations and bibliographies for deeper exploration.
Whether you’re a client, a clinician, or simply curious, these articles are designed to educate, validate, and empower your healing journey. My goal is to make psychological science feel human, relatable, and accessible—without losing its depth.
Hyperfocus is often described as both a gift and a challenge for ADHD and autistic adults. Recent research shows how it fuels creativity, mastery, and detail—but also how it can lead to burnout or time-blindness. Learn how to harness hyperfocus as a strength while protecting your energy.
Sleep challenges are common for neurodivergent adults, often tied to circadian rhythm shifts, sensory sensitivity, and racing thoughts. Recent research highlights why these struggles occur and how therapies like CBT-I can help build healthier, more restful nights.
Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) is a common experience in ADHD and autism, where even small cues of rejection or criticism can feel overwhelming. This post explains the science behind RSD, why neurodivergent brains are more vulnerable, and offers practical strategies and trauma-informed approaches for easing its intensity.
Do dreams actually matter in therapy? How can they be used in IFS therapy? This post looks at the research around it.
Neurodivergent people (autistic and/or ADHD) experience trauma more often and often process stress differently. EMDR and Brainspotting can help because they:
Use bottom-up nervous system regulation instead of relying only on talk.
Can be adapted for sensory preferences and pacing.
Allow processing without long, verbal storytelling.
What is EMDR? And Brainspotting? Let’s compare these two methods and see how they can help you heal.
Newly diagnosed with Autism? Here are the most common questions I am asked and what the research says to help you understand your new diagnosis.
Discover evidence-based therapies like CBT, DBT, and mindfulness that help neurodivergent adults manage impulsivity with weekly, supportive care.
When we receive a new diagnosis, there are so many questions. Take a look at the most common questions I get from newly diagnosed adults with ADHD and how the research helps us understand the answers.
Therapy isn’t about fixing what’s broken—it’s about partnership. This post explores the shift toward collaborative care, especially for neurodivergent clients. Learn how affirming identity, honoring lived expertise, and building safety together can transform therapy into an empowering path of healing.
Rumination—those looping thoughts that won’t let go—can feel especially strong for neurodivergent folks. Research shows how ADHD and autism link with rumination, and why it matters for mental health. In this post, we explore what fuels rumination, how it can be a strength, and practical tools for easing the cycle.
Neurodiversity is not a flaw—it’s a different way of thinking. This post explores the shift from disorder to difference, backed by new research and strengths-based care.
What are common relationship stressors for ADHD, autistic and those that fit into both categories? With recent peer-reviewed research, we get into what these challenges are and what are the ways we can address them with relationship practices.
Polyvagal theory offers neurodivergent adults pathways to a more reregulated nervous system. Try our a few at home and see if it is right for you.
Neurodivergence often comes with more than one diagnosis. Learn how ADHD, autism, and other conditions overlap—and the unique strengths that shine through.
Trauma isn’t just in the mind—it’s in the body. Learn how somatic therapies like EMDR, Brainspotting, and IFS help regulate and heal the nervous system.
The window of tolerance is an important tool in trauma work. Trauma can influence the size of the window, but there is good news: we can grow it bigger with some specific interventions.
ADHD and trauma often intersect in ways that affect emotional regulation, memory, and self-esteem. Learn how trauma-informed therapy can support healing for neurodivergent adults.
How does IFS work for the neurodivergent brain? In this post, I look at some clinical data from a recent study to address this issue.
How does EMDR work for the Neurodivergent brain? I examine recent data on how EMDR works for those with autism and for some with ADHD.
Curious about how Internal Family Systems (IFS) supports trauma healing?
This post explores the growing body of research showing how IFS not only reduces PTSD symptoms but also promotes neuroplasticity and deep emotional integration. Backed by recent studies, it highlights why IFS is such a powerful, compassionate approach for working with complex trauma.
How can adults with neurodivergence get the support they need with executive function? Here are some data-driven ideas to help you build skills.