Episode Summary:
In this powerful and grounding episode, we explore a common but often misunderstood experience for people with ADHD: zoning out. But we’re not just talking about distraction — we’re diving deep into the why behind this behavior, especially through a trauma-informed lens.

You’ll learn how zoning out can be a nervous system response tied to dysregulation, overwhelm, or past trauma, rather than laziness or lack of motivation. We’ll unpack what’s happening in the brain and body during these moments, and why traditional focus-based advice often misses the mark for neurodivergent folks.

What We Cover:

• What zoning out looks like in ADHD (beyond just being “distracted”)
• The role of the nervous system in dissociation and freeze responses
• How trauma history can amplify zoning out patterns
• Why grounding and regulation are more effective than forcing attention
• Practical, body-based tools to come back online and reconnect
• How to cultivate more awareness and compassion for your ADHD brain

Tools & Takeaways:

• Grounding techniques you can use in the moment
• Simple nervous system check-ins to notice when you're drifting
• How to create safety in your body to support presence and focus
• Permission to release shame around “spacing out”

Read more on my blog here.

Bria Wannamaker, RP.
@therapywithbria_
www.briawannamakerpsychotherapy.com

As always, please remember that these podcast episodes are for educational purposes only and are not a substitute for medical healthcare or mental healthcare. Podcasts are available as an educational and entertainment resource and are not advice, recommendations, or suggestions. Please seek out the necessary professional services if you require assistance.

Join us for an insightful discussion with Alex Glecoff from Behaviour Ally, exploring the intersection of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), behavioural change, and neurodivergent individuals. Discover how ACT principles can be tailored to empower neurodivergent clients and promote compassionate, identity-affirming therapy.

Read more on my blog here.

Topics Covered:

• Definition and core processes: acceptance, cognitive defusion, mindfulness, values-based action.
• Its alignment with behavioural frameworks and RFT (Relational Frame Theory)
• Discussion of ACT’s strong research base across stress, mental health, and behaviour change.
• Identifying unhelpful patterns using the ACT “hexaflex” model.
• Shaping new behaviours via values-driven goals.
• The importance of mindfulness and emotional acceptance in facilitating sustainable change.

Bria Wannamaker, RP.
@therapywithbria_
www.briawannamakerpsychotherapy.com

As always, please remember that these podcast episodes are for educational purposes only and are not a substitute for medical healthcare or mental healthcare. Podcasts are available as an educational and entertainment resource and are not advice, recommendations, or suggestions. Please seek out the necessary professional services if you require assistance.

In this episode, Christina joins the conversation to share both her clinical experience, and lived experience navigating life with chronic illness. We also discuss ADHD—all through the lens of the connection between neurodivergence and trauma. The discussion unpacks how these intersecting challenges often get overlooked in both medical and mental health systems, and how storytelling, somatic work, and self-awareness can be powerful tools for healing.

Whether you're newly diagnosed or still searching for answers, this episode offers validation, education, and actionable support.

Christina Kantzavelos LCSW, is a trauma-informed therapist, somatic practitioner, and the founder of Begin Within Today. With a compassionate, embodied approach, she supports neurodivergent and chronically ill individuals in healing from trauma and reconnecting with their authentic selves. Christina blends personal lived experience with clinical expertise, creating a grounded, relatable space for growth and restoration.

Learn more about Christina’s work: beginwithintoday.com

Bria Wannamaker, RP.
@therapywithbria_
www.briawannamakerpsychotherapy.com

As always, please remember that these podcast episodes are for educational purposes only and are not a substitute for medical healthcare or mental healthcare. Podcasts are available as an educational and entertainment resource and are not advice, recommendations, or suggestions. Please seek out the necessary professional services if you require assistance.