90: Integration Time for ADHD and Autism [Parenting Neurodivergence Series]

We're constantly inundated with information, experiences, and sensory input from all directions—in school, at work, at home, and anywhere else we go throughout our day. Without time to process and absorb, how can we effectively learn, grow, or heal? Enter the concept of integration time, a powerful tool for both therapists and clients that's often overlooked in our daily lives.

Integration time allows us to digest new information and experiences without feeling overwhelmed. It's essential for enhancing our capacity to learn, adapt, and heal—whether in therapy sessions, personal growth journeys, or everyday situations. And this concept is especially important for those with neurodivergent traits or diagnoses like ADHD and Autism, who tend to get overstimulated or overwhelmed quickly.

This week, we’re exploring the significance of integration time across various aspects of therapy and life experiences. We'll look at its role in EMDR sessions, parenting neurodivergent children, acquiring new skills, and creating accommodations. You’ll learn how integration time can reshape our approach to processing and growth.

We'll share practical strategies for incorporating integration time into therapeutic practices and personal development so you can create an environment for yourself or clients that nurtures true absorption and integration of experiences.

This episode offers valuable insights for therapists aiming to refine their methods and individuals seeking to support their own growth process.

By understanding and implementing this concept, we can more effectively put our experiences to use and create lasting positive change. Which is what we’re all looking for, right?

The Zero Disturbance podcast is for educational purposes and is not a replacement for a therapeutic relationship or individualized mental health or medical care.

Mentioned in This Episode:

• Parenting Neurodivergence Resource Bundle: Get on the waitlist.

What You’ll Learn:

• The concept of integration time and its crucial role in processing information and experiences.
• How integration time can benefit individuals with ADHD and autism in learning and daily life situations.
• The connection between overwhelm, trauma responses, and sensory processing
• Strategies for incorporating integration time into EMDR therapy sessions for more effective treatment.
• The importance of recognizing and respecting individual differences in processing speed and sensory input.
• How to apply the concept of integration time when working with neurodivergent children and adults.
• Ways to advocate for and implement integration time in educational and professional settings to support diverse learning needs.

Come learn with us at Zero Disturbance:

Want to learn more about empowering yourself to experience therapy or coaching on your terms? If you appreciated this episode, you won't want to miss out on The Client Workbook + supporting videos!

We also offer free resources for clients and therapists! Get access to our free client resource library for the most up-to-date tools and resources for your own journey. Therapists, access our favorite free resources for designing high-value offers in The Zero Disturbance Welcome Bundle.

With a Masters in Education from Vanderbilt, Kambria has been creating trainings and teaching adult learners for over 20 years. As the Director of Education and Quality Improvement at Stanford Medical School, she created ease in complex systems, thereby giving medical trainees successful learning experiences. Now, as a dedicated mom, therapist, and EMDR Consultant, Kambria knows what it means to do things efficiently, effectively, and in a learner-centered way. When she isn't podcasting or creating online courses, you can find Kambria playing with her twins on a beach in California.