Understanding EMDR Therapy for ADHD
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a structured and evidence-based approach originally developed for trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In recent years, clinicians have begun to explore how EMDR can also support individuals with ADHD, particularly in addressing the emotional and psychological consequences that often accompany the condition.
While ADHD is not caused by trauma, many people with ADHD experience repeated negative feedback, rejection, and misunderstanding throughout their lives. This can lead to internalized shame, chronic stress, and self-limiting beliefs. EMDR therapy offers a way to help process these experiences, reduce emotional intensity, and promote healing and self-compassion.
Why EMDR Can Be Beneficial for People with ADHD
People with ADHD frequently struggle with rejection sensitivity, low self-esteem, and negative self-beliefs that develop from years of criticism, academic challenges, or social difficulties. EMDR therapy provides a structured and gentle method to help reprocess these experiences and change the way they are stored in the brain.
Through this process, individuals often notice:
A reduction in emotional reactivity to criticism or rejection
A softer, more compassionate internal dialogue
Greater self-acceptance and confidence
Improved emotional regulation and resilience
EMDR therapy does not “cure” ADHD — rather, it helps address the emotional pain and secondary trauma that often accompany living with a misunderstood neurotype.
Why EMDR Can Be Beneficial for People with ADHD
According to the EMDR International Association (EMDRIA), EMDR can be effectively adapted to meet the needs of clients with ADHD. Therapists often modify bilateral stimulation methods, shorten processing sessions, and incorporate grounding strategies to maintain engagement and focus during treatment.
ADDitude Magazine highlights that EMDR can help individuals with ADHD process memories linked to shame, failure, or rejection, supporting emotional healing and improved self-perception.
Emerging case studies have also shown that EMDR may help people with ADHD who have experienced adverse childhood experiences or trauma, although larger-scale research is still developing.
A systematic review published in the National Library of Medicine (PMC9961224) notes promising outcomes for EMDR in neurodevelopmental conditions when adapted appropriately for attentional and cognitive differences.
Overall, while further research is needed, clinical evidence and practitioner experience suggest that EMDR can play a valuable role in improving emotional wellbeing for individuals with ADHD.
How EMDR Therapy Is Adapted for ADHD
EMDR follows an eight-phase protocol, but for individuals with ADHD, certain adaptations are often made to ensure therapy remains accessible and effective.
These modifications help individuals with ADHD stay present, regulate their emotions, and fully benefit from EMDR’s reprocessing effects.
1. History & Assessment
Phase: Fragmented memories, self-blame, shame
ADHD Related Challenge: Use visual aids, timelines, and guided questioning to organize experiences
2. Preparation & Stabilization
Phase: Difficulty relaxing or focusing
ADHD Related Challenge: Integrate physical grounding, sensory tools, and movement-based strategies
3–4. Assessment & Reprocessing
Phase: Distractibility, working memory challenges
Example Exercises: Use engaging bilateral stimulation, shorter sessions, and frequent check-ins
5. Installation of Positive Beliefs
Phase: Focus drift
ADHD Related Challenge: Reinforce new beliefs through repetition and multisensory techniques
6. Body Scan
Phase: Limited interoception
ADHD Related Challenge: Provide gentle prompts and body awareness exercises
7–8. Closure & Reevaluation
Phase: Difficulty winding down
ADHD Related Challenge: Use grounding tools, safety planning, and follow-up resources
Who May Benefit from EMDR Therapy
EMDR therapy can be particularly helpful for individuals who:
Have experienced repeated rejection, failure, or criticism related to ADHD symptoms
Struggle with persistent shame or negative self-talk
Experience emotional flashbacks or overwhelming reactions to current stressors
Want to heal the emotional wounds connected to past experiences and move forward with greater confidence
What to Expect During EMDR Therapy
Initial Consultation and Assessment – The therapist gathers background information and identifies areas for healing and growth.
Resource Building – Clients learn grounding and coping techniques to ensure emotional stability.
Target Identification and Reprocessing – Distressing memories or beliefs are identified and gently processed using bilateral stimulation.
Integration and Follow-Up – New insights and beliefs are reinforced and integrated into daily life.
Clients often report feeling more emotionally balanced, self-assured, and better equipped to handle challenges associated with ADHD.
A Neurodiversity-Affirming Approach
EMDR therapy for ADHD is most effective when delivered in a neurodiversity-affirming environment. This means recognising ADHD as a valid neurotype rather than a flaw, and approaching therapy with empathy, creativity, and respect for individual differences.
Therapists trained in both ADHD and EMDR understand that attention fluctuations, hyperfocus, and sensory sensitivities can shape how therapy unfolds. Sessions are paced flexibly, allowing clients to work safely and effectively at their own rhythm.
Complementary to ADHD Treatment
EMDR therapy complements — rather than replaces — other ADHD interventions such as medication, coaching, or cognitive-behavioural strategies. By addressing the emotional burdens of ADHD, EMDR can make it easier for individuals to engage with practical supports and thrive in daily life.
Begin EMDR Therapy for ADHD
For those ready to explore EMDR as part of their ADHD treatment journey, working with a therapist experienced in both trauma and neurodiversity can make all the difference. EMDR can help individuals release emotional pain, build resilience, and reconnect with a sense of self-worth — creating space for lasting growth and wellbeing.
Our Specialised ADHD & Autism Therapy Programmes
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
EMDR has been shown to reduce trauma symptoms, which are more prevalent in neurodivergent individuals due to social and sensory stressors (Lobregt-van Buuren et al., 2019). This therapy helps process difficult experiences that may be contributing to current challenges.
Processing of traumatic experiences
Reduced anxiety
Improved confidence
Decreased emotional triggers
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT helps individuals manage anxiety, low mood, and emotional regulation challenges commonly associated with ADHD and Autism. Research by Sukhodolsky et al. (2013) demonstrates its effectiveness in developing practical coping strategies and reshaping challenging thought patterns.
Improved anxiety management
Better emotional regulation
Enhanced problem-solving skills
Increased self-awareness
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
DBT is especially effective for emotional dysregulation and impulsivity—key features of ADHD and Autism (Fleischhaker et al., 2011). This approach combines acceptance and change strategies to help clients develop mindfulness, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness.
Enhanced emotional regulation
Reduced impulsivity
Improved relationships
Better stress management techniques
Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy
This attachment-focused therapy strengthens the parent-child bond and develops co-regulation skills. Particularly helpful for younger children, dyadic therapy builds emotional resilience and improves family relationships through enhanced understanding and connection.
Stronger parent-child connections
Improved attunement
Enhanced co-regulation skills
More secure attachment patterns
Systemic Family Therapy
Supporting the whole family system, this approach improves communication and reduces stress by addressing relational patterns that affect everyone (Carr, 2019). It helps families understand how ADHD and Autism impact family dynamics and develop strategies that work for everyone.
Improved family communication
Reduced household stress
Better understanding of neurodivergent needs
Practical strategies for family harmony
Who Can Benefit?
Our therapy programs are designed for:
Children with ADHD and/or Autism
Teenagers navigating school and social challenges
Adults seeking better symptom management
Parents and carers looking for effective support strategies
Families adjusting to a new diagnosis
Individuals with or without formal diagnosis who identify with ADHD or Autism traits
Why Choose Our Programmes?
Evidence-Based: backed by scientific research
Family-Centered: We support parents, carers, and family members
Convenient: Available online via secure video call
Specialised: therapists are trained in neurodevelopmental conditions
Flexible: 12-week programs booked in manageable 6-session blocks
Book Your Therapy Appointment
Book your first appointment by selecting a date and time below and filling out some quick details.
We book our therapy sessions in groups of 6, your remaining 5 appointments will be scheduled with your therapist in your first appointment.
Got a Question?
Not sure about booking an appointment just yet? Need more info about the process? Ask us anything using our contact form below!
You can also call us on 020 39897789 or email at info@privateadhd.com
FAQs
A few of our frequently asked questions about our ADHD and Autism Therapies
How do I know which therapy is right for me or my family member?
During our initial consultation, we'll assess your specific needs and goals to recommend the most appropriate therapy approach. Many clients benefit from a combination of approaches tailored to their unique situation.
Is a 12-week program really necessary?
While the program runs for 12 weeks, we split it into two manageable 6-session blocks. This structure provides the consistency needed for lasting change, especially for neurodivergent individuals who often benefit from routine and structured support.
Do you offer in-person sessions?
Currently, all our sessions are delivered via secure video call. This allows us to provide flexible, high-quality support without travel, which works particularly well for clients with sensory sensitivities or busy schedules.
Will these therapies work without medication?
Our therapeutic approaches can be effective both as standalone treatments and as complements to medication. We work with your existing medical providers to ensure coordinated care.
How are parents and family members involved?
Depending on the therapy type and client's age, family involvement varies. For children and teens, parents are often integral to the therapy process. For adults, family participation is optional but encouraged when beneficial.
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