Episode 105 Autism, EMDR, and Trauma: An In-Depth Conversation with Dr. Sandra Paulsen

In episode 105 of The One Thing Podcast, Dr. Adam Rinde interviews @SandraPaulsenPhD Dr. Sandra Paulsen, a psychologist and author, about her expertise in psychotherapy with a specific focus on autism and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). Dr. Paulsen discusses her own journey with autism, her therapeutic approach for treating trauma in autistic patients, and the benefits and challenges of autism. She emphasizes the importance of gentle and tailored interventions due to the sensitivity of autistic nervous systems. Dr. Paulsen also highlights her newest book, 'The Beauty and Burden of Autism,' which employs her original cartoons to illustrate various psychological constructs. Furthermore, she delves into the controversies surrounding autism in the mental health field, social dynamics, and systematic thinking in autistic individuals. The episode provides valuable insights into how EMDR can be adapted for autistic patients and the psychoeducation necessary for better understanding and support within the community.

In the even the podcast exceeds 300 views (YouTube and Podcasts plays) in the first 30 days The One Thing Podcast will donate at least $100 EMDR Humanitarian Assistance Program https://www.emdrhap.org/

00:00 Introduction to The One Thing Podcast
00:50 Meet Dr. Sandra Paulsen: A Journey in Psychotherapy
01:11 Exploring Autism and EMDR
02:00 The Beauty and Burden of Autism
02:23 Dr. Paulson's Professional Background
03:38 Personal Connection and Gratitude
04:52 Diving into Dr. Paulsen's Career
07:28 Understanding Autism: Personal and Professional Insights
15:13 The Controversies and Gifts of Autism
26:17 Understanding Autism and Relationship Challenges
27:11 Women with Autism: Unique Experiences
29:24 The Concept of Masking in Autism
33:40 Interconnected Conditions: Autism, Anxiety, and More
37:42 Therapeutic Approaches for Autism
45:16 Living with Autism: Personal Insights and Future Hopes
51:23 Conclusion and Resources

More Resources:
Dr. Rinde on Neurodiversity: https://open.substack.com/pub/adamrinde/p/neurodiversity
Dr. Paulsen's New Book: The Beauty and Burden of Autism
http://www.paulsenpsychology.com
https://www.amazon.com/Beauty-Burden-Autism-Illustrated-Workbook/dp/B0D7PTNLGV/

About Dr. Paulsen
Sandra Paulsen, Ph.D., is an international instructor, author and illustrator of principles and procedures for using EMDR with complex trauma including structural and somatic dissociation and trauma held in implicit memory. Her books include coediting The Neurobiology and Treatment of Traumatic Dissociation: Toward an Embodied Self. She wrote and illustrated Looking Through the Eyes of Trauma: An Illustrated Guide for EMDR Therapists and Clients;  and When There Are No Words: EMDR for Very Early Trauma in Implicit Memory, and coauthored We’re Listening Body: Integrating EMDR, Somatic and Ego State Therapies.  
2024 publications will include: ⁠The Beauty and Burden of Autism: An Illustrated Guide and Workbook, ⁠and Indigenous Trauma and Dissociation: Healers, Psychotherapies and the Drum, with Shelley Spear Chief. She also coauthored and illustrated a childrens book that is also useful for dissociative adults called All the Colors of Me: My First Book on Dissociation. Sandra is a Fellow of the International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation.