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Abstract

The main component of trauma informed work is that we need to use a bottom-up approach. This means rather than using language and cognitive reasoning to help individuals manage their feelings, we start with the body. We need to ask not �what�s wring with you�, but �what�s happened to you�. Physical dysregulation is a major difficulty for children with trauma but also many other issues such and anxiety, ADHD, ASD and many more. Bessel Van Der Kolk recently said he advocates that all children in all years should receive teaching on how to self-regulate. This includes understanding of how the brain works, breathing, interactive techniques, noticing and moving. This can then facilitate an understanding of �who they are�. Although ADHD can�t be �cured�, research shows that through self-understanding and recognising how our brains and body work, that neural fine-tuning can be tweaked and symptoms better managed better. Gabor Mate questions whether most physical dysregulation doesn�t have a basis of trauma somewhere upstream, whilst acknowledging for many there may be a biological predisposition. In this presentation I draw upon the work of the most current trauma informed practitioners, including the above mentioned along with Stephen Porges (Polyvagal theory). I also draw on my work with a 3,000 strong group of adults accross othe world who have/feel they have ADHD. Finally, I draw upon my own experience of trauma, ADHD and self-understanding. All life is work, and all work should, I feel, be life.

Biography

Dr Abigail Barragry , She has hold a doctorate in Eductational Psychology, she has underglone training in a wide variety of therapeutic modalities to work witoh children and adults. These include ACT, CBT, Creative Arts Therapy and Trauma Informed practice. She also hold a Masters degree in performing arts. My approach is solution focusedl, supporting individuals through body-mind integration and to re-connect to their inner child. After all, all life is improvisation.