Liz Zhou
Holistic Trauma Therapist, Coach, Speaker
Helping highly sensitive, neurodivergent adults & couples.
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For Adult ADHDers: 3 Simple Ways to Improve Executive Functioning
Struggling to complete — or even start — your to-do list? The ADHD brain has a variable attention span, motivated by interests rather than by priorities. A neurodiversity-affirming therapist explains how to stay focused and get things done — even the tasks that you dread doing.
Double Empathy Problem: Why Communication is Confusing in Neurodiverse (Autistic-Allistic) Relationships
In mixed-neurotype relationships, communication breakdowns can occur due to differences in brain processing styles. A neurodivergent-affirming therapist explains how the “Double Empathy Problem” shows up: direct vs. indirect language, verbal vs. nonverbal communication, and differences in eye contact.
What is Neurodiversity-Affirming IFS Therapy?
Learn why Internal Family Systems therapy can be a great fit for neurodivergent people (Autistic, ADHD, HSP) seeking to heal trauma, unmask, and connect with their authentic selves. A neurodivergent therapist explains how IFS works.
What’s the Inner Ally Practice? | Resourcing in EMDR Therapy
Resourcing is the initial phase of the EMDR therapy protocol, designed to stabilize your nervous system and create a sense of calm and steadiness within yourself. Let’s delve into the Inner Ally practice — what it is, why it works, and how to create your own Nurturing, Protective, Playful, and Wise Figures.
“Autistic Person” vs “Person with Autism”: What’s the Difference? | A Neurodivergent Therapist’s POV
As the mental health field updates its understanding of autism to be more affirming, more and more adults are realizing that they’re autistic – leading to a growing community of late-diagnosed neurodivergent people. Let’s explore the difference between identity-first and person-first language, and why many members of the Autistic community prefer identity-first language.
Psychedelic Therapy in Colorado: A Beginner’s Guide to Ketamine
You’ve likely heard about the potential benefits, but what does ketamine-assisted psychotherapy actually look like? How does it feel? And could it be the right fit for your journey? Let’s dive in.
Trauma Therapy Intensives (EMDR + IFS) in Denver, Colorado
Therapy intensives are a short-term, accelerated, and highly efficient treatment. If you’re tired of weekly therapy (or can’t fit it into your busy schedule in the first place), explore an intensive approach to healing in Denver, or online across Colorado.
The Link Between Trauma and Neurodivergence
There’s a reason why autistic, ADHD, and other neurodivergent people tend to experience higher rates of anxiety, depression, PTSD, and complex trauma. Let’s explore how stigma, misunderstanding, and lack of accommodations in our neurotypical society impact mental health — and what we can do about it.
How to Reduce Driving Anxiety: A Holistic Guide for Highly Sensitive People
Do you avoid driving, or feel overwhelmed by the thought of it? Explore HSP-friendly strategies to make driving more tolerable (and even enjoyable).
Why Talk Therapy Isn’t (Always) Helpful for Neurodivergent People (+ What to Try Instead)
Let’s face it: traditional talk therapy wasn’t designed with neurodivergent brains in mind (autism, ADHD, high sensitivity). If you’re feeling stuck or unheard, consider alternative approaches like EMDR, IFS, and psychedelic therapy.
How to Choose an Ayahuasca Retreat Center | A Psychedelic Therapist’s Perspective
An ayahuasca retreat is a potent opportunity for healing, and choosing the right setting is key. Learn what to look for in a plant medicine retreat center — including sustainable practices, skilled facilitators, location, “la dieta,” accommodations, and safety factors.
6 Objects That’ll Make Your Life Easier as a Highly Sensitive, Neurodivergent Person
Sensory overload is a common challenge for highly sensitive and neurodivergent nervous systems. Discover how a few simple tools, from noise-canceling headphones to fidget toys, can create a calmer and more comfortable world for you.
Common Challenges of Neurodiverse Couples (+ Tips to Improve Communication and Intimacy)
Is miscommunication causing tension in your relationship? Do you get into arguments over thermostat settings, noise levels, and lighting in the house? Learn how the “double empathy problem” and differing sensory needs impact neurodiverse relationships (autistic/allistic, neurodivergent/neurotypical). A neurodiversity-affirming couples therapist offers 4 tips.
What’s the Container in EMDR Therapy? (FAQs + Examples)
Learn about the “container practice” in EMDR therapy – a way to safely store difficult thoughts and feelings until you’re ready to process them with your therapist. This blog post will answer all your questions about the container: how to create it, what to put in it, and why it’s different (and healthier) than bottling up emotions forever.
How to Avoid a “Bad Trip” with the Psilocybin Mushroom Medicine
With roots in indigenous traditions and emerging applications in modern mental health treatment, psilocybin is a powerful natural medicine. Here’s how to plan a meaningful healing experience.
5 Powerful Books about Asian American Mental Health
In a society that often overlooks the struggles of Asian Americans (model minority myth, anyone?), these 5 books offer a powerful and intimate look at mental health within this diverse community.
5 Terms to Know if You or Your Partner are Neurodivergent
Wondering how neurodiversity (autism, ADHD, HSP) might be impacting your relationship? It’s a question more and more couples are exploring these days. This post unpacks key terms to help you navigate neurodiversity with compassion & understanding.
What Your Bones Know: How to Heal Complex Trauma and CPTSD
Healing is a journey, not a destination, and it involves weaving together different threads of support. Through the power of relationships, play, community, and therapy, it’s possible to heal complex trauma (CPTSD).
What Does Ketamine Therapy Feel Like?
Ketamine therapy is a rapidly evolving treatment showing promise for depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Here’s what to know if you’re considering ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP).
What is Neurodiversity-Affirming EMDR Therapy?
Feeling lost in a world designed for neurotypical brains? Learn how EMDR therapy can be adapted to your unique needs, preferences, and neurotype.