Autistic clients may not follow the typical trajectory of processing, requiring perhaps a greater level of flexibility and creativity. There may further be overlapping conditions and comorbidity with other conditions such as intellectual disability, conduct problems, processing disorders or physiological health challenges, leading to ever greater complexity in formulation and treatment planning, for the EMDR therapist. In addition, diagnostic overshadowing with autism symptomology means that often clients with autism are ‘missed’ in terms of the impact of significant life events for the client, with the consequence of them often not receiving the help they need to heal.

This online course examines the differing needs of autistic individuals with the central tenant being the impact of trait anxiety and difficulties in emotional regulation, so often seen in autistic individuals. By using an extended preparation phase for autism, designed to help identify emotions and bring the experience of emotion within client’s window of tolerance, delivering EMDR becomes much easier and the client’s capacity to manage affect improves.