What’s Neurodivergence and What’s Trauma-Related?

Over the last few years, terms like neurodivergent and trauma have made their way into everyday conversations — and for good reason. People are learning more about the brain, the nervous system, and the many ways human beings process the world.

But one of the biggest questions I hear from clients is:

“How do I know if what I’m experiencing is because I’m neurodivergent — or because of trauma?”

The truth is, the line isn’t always clear. But there are important differences that can help guide self-understanding and treatment.

Defining Neurodivergence

Neurodivergence is an umbrella term that describes people whose brain functions differently from what’s considered “neurotypical.” This includes conditions like:

• ADHD

• Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)

• Dyslexia and other learning differences

• Tourette’s syndrome

• Sensory processing differences

These differences are typically lifelong — they’re rooted in brain development, not caused by a specific external event.

Research suggests neurodivergence is often genetic, and traits can be observed in childhood (Boucher, 2009; Faraone et al., 2015).

Understanding Trauma-Related Symptoms

Trauma, on the other hand, refers to the lasting impact of one or more distressing events on the nervous system. This can include:

• Childhood neglect or abuse

• Medical trauma

• Accidents

• Relational or attachment wounds

Trauma changes how the nervous system perceives and responds to safety and danger. 

This can cause symptoms that look similar to neurodivergence — like difficulty focusing, sensory sensitivity, social withdrawal, or emotional dysregulation — but with a different root cause (van der Kolk, 2014).

Why It Gets Confusing

Here’s where it gets tricky:

• A neurodivergent person may develop trauma responses because of years of masking, misunderstanding, or being unsupported.

• A trauma survivor may develop habits and nervous system patterns that resemble ADHD or autism traits.

Without a thorough assessment, it’s easy to misattribute one for the other — especially since both impact executive functioning, emotional regulation, and sensory processing.

The Overlap — and Why It Matters

Misunderstanding the root cause can lead to mismatched support. For example:

• Treating ADHD-like symptoms as purely trauma-related might focus only on processing memories — but miss the need for long-term strategies to support focus and sensory needs.

• Assuming someone is neurodivergent without exploring trauma may overlook the possibility of nervous system regulation work that could significantly reduce symptoms.

This is why integrative therapy matters. It allows space for assessment, nervous system work, and tailored interventions — instead of forcing someone into a one-size-fits-all label.

My Approach

In my practice — whether online or in person in Santa Cruz, Monterey, Carmel Valley, San Luis Obispo, or Big Sur — I work with both neurodivergent clients and those healing from trauma.

Sometimes, it’s both.

Using EMDR, somatic therapy, and nervous system regulation techniques, we can address trauma patterns while also creating accommodations and strategies for neurodivergent traits. 

Plus, I also offer the Safe and Sound Protocol which helps people with neurodivergence, trauma and sensory sensitivities feel more safe and grounded overall. 

The goal isn’t to “fix” who you are — it’s to remove unnecessary barriers so you can thrive as your most authentic self.

If you’ve been wondering whether your challenges are neurodivergence, trauma, or both — know that you don’t have to figure it out alone. Reach out here to explore the next steps.

Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, diagnosis, or medical treatment. Always consult with a licensed provider in your state for personalized care.