SARAH BERGENFIELD
Understand your autistic brain, body and mind
I am an autistic writer, somatic psychologist and Level 3 Certified Internal Family Systems practitioner. I support clients and mixed-neurology couples from around the world who are learning how to navigate life with an autistic brain, body and mind.
Your Brain
The autistic brain works differently. I combine my psychology research and recent neuroscience to help you understand your autistic traits.
Your Body
Polyvagal Theory gives a framework within which you can learn about your nervous system. What kinds of things help you feel regulated? What sensory triggers dysregulate you? Changes to expectations or being in busy social spaces are common reasons for autistic anxiety.
Your Mind
Internal Family Systems helps you understand how autism impacts your emotional world and how your parts have adapted to help you live in a neuronormative world. The IFS model offers us a way of being. I teach you how to use IFS in your daily life so you can be in relationship with the parts of you that may be in extreme roles, allowing them to relax and increasing your connection to yourself and those around you.
I create a safe and welcoming environment where you can show up authentically, learn to accept the things that make you unique and gently navigate the things you find challenging. All parts are welcome.
In 2022, I became the first openly autistic person to present at the Internal Family Systems Annual Conference. My presentation has been viewed almost 10,000 times since then. In 2023, I was invited back to present a full-day workshop to clinicians and practitioners from around the world.
My work to increase understanding of autistic Self-energy has been pivotal in changing how IFS is used with autistic clients. I am proud to have paved the way for others add their voices.