Episode 225: Experiential Therapy: Less Talk & More Action

Traditional talk-based therapy is sometimes less effective for neurodivergent people. On this episode, Emily Kircher-Morris welcomes ADHD-er and licensed social worker Chris Nealy, to discuss the effectiveness of experiential therapy for neurodivergent individuals. They talk about some of the different forms of experiential therapy, like applied theater, equine facilitated psychotherapy, and technology-based interventions. These forms of therapy focus on nonverbal communication and body language, allowing for more effective communication and engagement. They also discuss how experiential therapy has helped improve relationships and understanding within families.

Takeaways

  • Experiential therapy, which focuses on nonverbal communication and body language, can be highly effective for neurodivergent individuals.

  • Applied theater and equine facilitated psychotherapy are examples of experiential therapy interventions that have shown positive results.

  • Technology-based interventions, such as video modeling and incorporating personal interests like gaming, can also be effective in experiential therapy.

  • Experiential therapy can help improve relationships and understanding within families by providing a different perspective and facilitating communication.

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Chris is a licensed social worker and military veteran service provider in the state of North Carolina. As a person with ADHD, he fully embraces the strengths and challenges of executive functioning differences experienced by those affected by ADHD and Autism. Chris enjoys helping others recognize their potential in personal, social, academic, and professional arenas. ADHD/Autism have huge impacts on intimate relationships as well, and Chris provides support for parents and couples who are navigating the hurdles of loving someone with these qualities.

BACKGROUND READING

Chris’s practice

Triple Play Farm

“Buck,” the film