EMDR for Neurodivergent Individuals
- VHC team
- Jan 20
- 3 min read
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation & Reprocessing) is an evidence-based psychological approach used to support people in processing and reduce the distress linked to their traumatic memories.
What can EMDR help with?
EMDR has a strong evidence base for trauma-related distress, and while research into EMDR with neurodivergent populations is still developing, growing clinical and lived-experience evidence suggests it can be highly beneficial when adapted thoughtfully.
Neurodivergence and trauma
Trauma is common across the population, and both neurodivergent and neurotypical people can be deeply affected by traumatic experiences. In Australia, it is estimated that around 75% of adults will experience at least one traumatic event in their lifetime, and approximately 11% will meet criteria for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) at some point in their lives (ABS 2022).
Research also shows that Autistic people and ADHDers are at a significantly higher risk of both experiencing traumatic events and developing PTSD. This increased vulnerability is linked to higher rates of victimisation, social exclusion, and chronic stress, as well as differences in how experiences are perceived and processed. Many neurodivergent people report distress related to experiences others may not recognise as traumatic, such as persistent sensory overload, social rejection, masking, or repeated invalidation.
While trauma can affect anyone, the strong overlap between neurodivergence and trauma is one reason some neurodivergent people explore trauma-focused therapies such as EMDR — alongside neurotypical individuals who may also benefit from this approach.
What can I expect in an EMDR session?
EMDR therapy follows an eight-phase framework, though you won’t necessarily move through every phase in a single session. Sessions often involve moving back and forth between phases based on your needs.
EMDR sessions include:
getting to know your history and building safety
identifying a target memory or experience
using bilateral stimulation
checking in with body sensations and emotions
grounding and closing the session safely
How does bilateral stimulation work?
Bilateral stimulation is a gentle, back-and-forth movement, such as eye movements, tapping, or sound. It helps both sides of the brain work together, creating a calming effect on the nervous system.
When something overwhelming happens, the brain may not fully process it at the time. Instead, the experience can become “stuck” and continue to feel distressing in the present. Bilateral stimulation helps the brain and body safely finish processing what couldn’t be processed before. Over time, memories often feel less intense and more like something that happened in the past, rather than something that’s still happening now.
How EMDR can help neurodivergent individuals
EMDR can be particularly preferable for neurodivergent clients because it:
does not rely heavily on verbal storytelling
can work with sensory and body-based experiences
is structured and predictable
focuses on processing rather than analysing
Many clients describe EMDR as empowering, because the processing happens internally — with the therapist guiding and supporting, rather than directing the outcome.
Potential benefits of EMDR
People who find EMDR helpful often report:
reduced emotional intensity linked to memories
reduced symptoms of trauma and other distressing life experiences
increased self-compassion and self-esteem
less need to avoid reminders of the past
EMDR is:
time-efficient (typically involves fewer sessions than other therapeutic approaches)
less confronting than exposure-based therapies
can be easier to complete, with no homework required
Healing looks different for everyone, and EMDR is not a one-size-fits-all approach — but it is one option some neurodivergent people find worth exploring.
Can EMDR be done via telehealth?
Yes! Research shows that EMDR delivered via telehealth can be just as effective as in-person therapy. This can be especially helpful for neurodivergent clients who feel more regulated in their own environment.
If you’re curious about EMDR or wondering whether it might be right for you, you’re welcome to contact us to learn more and explore your options.
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