Emotion-focused therapy for autism spectrum disorder : a case conceptualization model for trauma-related experiences

Robinson, Anna (2018) Emotion-focused therapy for autism spectrum disorder : a case conceptualization model for trauma-related experiences. Journal of Contemporary Psychotherapy, 48 (3). 133–143. ISSN 0022-0116

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    Abstract

    People with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) report painful experiences through emotional misunderstandings with typically developing (TD) peers. There are limited intervention methodologies for ASD on the impact of emotional injuries and how to work with resulting trauma. This paper presents a rational-empirical model of trauma-related experiences with the first presentation of a new case conceptualization model for Emotion-Focused Therapy for ASD. It describes the transformation of problematic emotion schemes through a sequence of emotional processing steps illustrated with a case example. These steps include: overcoming differentiation of core painful feelings (such as loneliness, shame, and fear); autobiographical memory recall of distanced trauma, using a novel method of video Interpersonal Process Recall; and articulation of the unmet needs contained in core painful feelings. This is followed by the expression of an emotional response to those feelings/needs; typically, self-soothing, protective anger and compassion responses offered interpersonally by group members. These emerging adaptive emotions facilitate mentalization of self and other that strengthens intrapersonal and interpersonal agency. This rational-empirical case conceptualization acts as a hypothesis for testing in subsequent trials.

    Author(s):Robinson, Anna ORCID logoORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6992-3629
    Item type:Article
    ID code:63241
    Keywords:emotion-focused therapy, autism spectrum disorder, group therapy, trauma- related experiences, case conceptualization, Psychology, Clinical Psychology, Psychiatry and Mental health
    Subjects:Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > Psychology
    Department:Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences (HaSS) > School of Education > Education
    Strategic Research Themes > Health and Wellbeing
    Strategic Research Themes > Society and Policy
    Depositing user: Pure Administrator
    Date deposited:12 Feb 2018 14:58
    Last modified:22 Jan 2020 19:52
    Related URLs:
    URI:https://strathprints.strath.ac.uk/id/eprint/63241
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