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 autistic individuals, somatic therapy may help improve
therapy outcomes for healing from trauma. Young adult autistic women, 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 ARE ELIGIBLE TO PARTICIPATE?
-Young Adult Females (assigned at birth)
-Ages 18-35
-Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder
-Within the United States
-Diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
-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).

RESEARCHER(S):
Marisa Bridge, M.S.Ed., Primary Researcher, [email protected], Doctoral Student, PhD in
Counseling and Psychological Studies, Regent University
Jeremy Cooper, Ph.D., Dissertation Chair, [email protected], Adjunct Faculty, College of Health &
Behavioral Sciences, Regent University

Please click the Link to Participate in the Study: https://forms.gle/vBnRg8us1sYFpESj6

Name of Organization:
Marisa Bridge, Regent University Ph.D. – Trauma & Crisis Counseling Program Student

For questions, please email::
330-559-2023, [email protected]

Study Link: 
https://forms.gle/wkYiriBZcMr4ah639