Hello, my name is Marisa Bridge, doctoral student at Regent University – Ph.D. in Counseling and Psychological Studies program (Virginia Beach, VA). I am under the advisement of Dr. Jeremy Cooper, dissertation chair. I am seeking assistance for recruitment of participants for my dissertation study on somatic therapy for the treatment of trauma in young adult women with autism spectrum disorder.
AUDIENCE FOR THE REQUEST
-Therapists or mental health organizations based within the United States
-Therapists who provide:
-Somatic therapy (Examples: Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, the Hakomi Method, Bioenergetic Analysis, Brain Spotting, Dance and Movement Therapy, Yoga Therapy, and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy)
-Trauma therapy
-Therapists who work with clients diagnosed with Autism
-Therapists who work with clients diagnosed with PTSD
DESCRIPTION
Several studies have been conducted looking into the subject of how trauma, either single event or multiple events, may create both psychological and physical symptoms in the body. The physical symptoms are a result of the body’s natural response to return itself back to functioning (self-regulation). Further research has identified somatic therapy, a validated therapy approach that develops the mind-body connection, as a possible solution for somatic symptoms as it helps heal some of those traumatic symptoms. For individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder, somatic therapy may help improve therapy outcomes for healing from trauma. Young adult women with ASD, a population that deserves a voice, especially may benefit from this form of therapy due to the way awareness of how emotions impact the body is developed. Lastly, the study will also examine how faith may serve as a resiliency factor to build hope throughout treatment of trauma.
If you decide to participate, then you will join a study involving research through a one-on-one interview with Marisa Bridge, doctoral student, to discuss your Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnosis, experiences of trauma, experiences in somatic therapy, and how faith may have positively impacted your healing journey. If you say YES, then your participation in an interview will last for approximately 30 to 60 minutes. No other interviews will be needed, however, the research may reach out for brief clarifications. Approximately 6 to 15 participants will be participating in this dissertation study. An email with a list of national hotlines and referrals will then be emailed to you following your participation for debriefing purposes.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO PARTICIPATE?
-Young Adult Females (assigned at birth). Any gender identity is eligible to participate.
-Ages 18-35
-Located within the United States
-Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder by a licensed professional
-Diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder by a licensed professional
-Current or Past Experience with Somatic Therapy for Trauma
-Must be able to provide written and verbal informed consent
-Must be able to communicate in a one-on-one Zoom interview
To protect participants from any risks, participants will be excluded from the study if they have, within the past 90 days, been hospitalized for a mental health or psychiatric episode associated with suicide, homicide, or property damage (severe to moderate intent, plan, or attempts), or a severe reaction (such as a severe trauma reaction, psychosis, or mania).
RESEARCHERS
Marisa Bridge, M.S.Ed., Primary Researcher, marib24@mail.regent.edu, Doctoral Student, PhD in Counseling and Psychological Studies, Regent University
Jeremy Cooper, Ph.D., Dissertation Chair, jerecoo@regent.edu, Adjunct Faculty, College of Health & Behavioral Sciences, Regent University
Individuals may go to the following link to sign up for participation. You may also contact Marisa Bridge with any questions.
Please note: All articles requesting research participation must be approved by the ISSTD Scientific Committee prior to posting. This proposal was approved by the ISSTD Scientific Committee in March 2026.