Functional Neurological Disorder: A Comprehensive Overview from an Inclusive Therapy Perspective

Introduction

Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) is a complex condition characterized by neurological symptoms such as seizures, movement disorders, sensory symptoms, and cognitive issues. These symptoms are not explained by structural damage to the nervous system but rather by a functional issue in the brain’s communication pathways (Rawlings et al., 2018). Despite its prevalence, FND is often misunderstood and misdiagnosed, leading to a range of challenges for those who live with the condition and for the clinicians who support them. As therapists who specialize in working with FND, we recognize the importance of a comprehensive approach that integrates the biopsychosocial model. This model considers the interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors that contribute to the manifestation and persistence of FND symptoms. Understanding FND through this lens allows for more effective treatment strategies that are tailored to the unique needs of each client.

Drawing on the invaluable insights from “A Clinician’s Guide to Functional Neurological Disorder” and “A Patient’s Workbook for Functional Neurological Disorder,” this blog offers a deep dive into the nature of FND and the therapeutic approaches that can be most beneficial. Our practice, led by queer and neurodivergent therapists Audrey Wolfe, RCC, and Clayre Sessoms, RP, RCT, RCC, RCAT, CCC, ATR-BC, is firmly rooted in anti-oppressive and accessible therapy. We understand that the experience of living with FND is not only shaped by the neurological symptoms themselves but also by the broader context of a person’s life, including systemic factors like societal stigma, marginalization, and chronic stress.

The insights we offer come from our extensive experience working with clients diagnosed with FND. Our understanding of this condition is ever-evolving, informed by both the latest research and the lived experiences of our clients. We have seen firsthand how FND symptoms can be exacerbated by societal pressures and how therapy needs to be adaptive, holistic, and sensitive to the diverse experiences of our clients. For many of our clients, the intersection of FND with issues of identity—such as gender, sexuality, race, and neurodivergence—creates additional layers of complexity that require thoughtful, inclusive, and responsive therapeutic practices.

In our work, we have found that addressing FND effectively involves not only managing symptoms but also fostering a sense of agency and empowerment in clients. This involves validating their experiences, understanding the profound impact of intersectional stressors, and collaboratively developing strategies that address both the psychological and social dimensions of their condition. For example, we work with clients to explore how trauma, systemic oppression, and social dynamics interact with their FND symptoms and co-create pathways toward healing that are both meaningful and sustainable for them.

Given that our practice is focused on marginalized communities, particularly trans and queer clients, we aim to create a therapeutic environment where all aspects of a client’s experience are acknowledged and valued. Our approach includes integrating somatic therapies, narrative work, and psychoeducation to help clients build resilience against the backdrop of ongoing societal challenges. For us, working with FND is not just about reducing symptoms; it’s about empowering clients to navigate their unique journeys with confidence, clarity, and support.

In the sections that follow, we will delve deeper into the key concepts from the books, explore the impact of FND on clients and therapists, and outline the therapeutic strategies that we have found most effective in supporting clients with FND. By sharing our knowledge and experience, we hope to offer a resource that is both informative and supportive, whether you are a therapist seeking to better understand FND or a potential client exploring therapeutic options.

Understanding Functional Neurological Disorder (FND)

Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) is a condition where patients experience neurological symptoms such as seizures, limb weakness, tremors, and sensory changes without any underlying neurological disease that would account for these symptoms (Rawlings et al., 2018). These symptoms can mimic those of conditions such as epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, or stroke, making FND a challenging diagnosis. Historically, FND was referred to as “conversion disorder,” a term rooted in early psychoanalytic theory suggesting that psychological distress is “converted” into physical symptoms. This terminology, however, carries stigmatizing connotations that imply the symptoms are purely psychological or “imagined.” Modern neuroscience and clinical research have reshaped our understanding, now recognizing that the symptoms are real, not consciously produced, and result from a disruption in how the brain processes and integrates sensory and motor functions (Rawlings et al., 2018).

The contemporary understanding of FND emphasizes that it is not a simple “either/or” of physical versus psychological, but rather a “both/and” situation. This means that while there may not be an identifiable lesion or structural abnormality in the brain or nervous system, the symptoms are no less genuine and are the result of functional issues within the brain’s networks. Neuroimaging studies have shown that when individuals with FND experience symptoms, different parts of their brains become activated compared to when individuals without FND engage in the same activities. This indicates that FND involves a miscommunication between brain areas responsible for movement, sensation, and cognition, which can lead to the expression of symptoms (Rawlings et al., 2018).

From a clinical standpoint, FND is best understood through a biopsychosocial model that considers biological, psychological, and social factors (Rawlings et al., 2018). This model recognizes that FND does not occur in a vacuum; rather, it is influenced by an interplay of various elements, including genetics, past trauma, current psychological stress, and the individual’s social environment. Biological factors might involve an individual’s sensitivity to physical symptoms or a heightened stress response. Psychological factors can include past experiences, emotional regulation difficulties, or maladaptive coping mechanisms. Social factors often involve cultural beliefs about illness, support systems, and the patient’s interactions with healthcare providers and family members.

The “Pressure Cooker Model” introduced in “A Clinician’s Guide to Functional Neurological Disorder” expands upon this biopsychosocial framework by highlighting the significant role that social relationships and environmental stressors play in both the development and maintenance of FND symptoms. The model is a metaphor for understanding how stress, both internal and external, builds up and needs to be managed effectively to prevent an “explosion” of symptoms. In this model, FND symptoms are seen as the result of a build-up of pressures—psychological, social, and physiological—that exceed an individual’s coping capacity. The model emphasizes that successful treatment needs to address all these layers of a person’s experience, including improving emotional regulation, altering maladaptive thought patterns, and adjusting environmental and relational dynamics (Rawlings et al., 2018).

A key insight of the “Pressure Cooker Model” is the concept of “reciprocal reinforcement,” where symptoms can be inadvertently maintained by the responses and expectations of the individual’s social network, including family, friends, and healthcare providers. For example, a well-intentioned caregiver’s tendency to overprotect the person with FND can reinforce dependency and hinder recovery, creating a cycle that perpetuates the symptoms (Rawlings et al., 2018). Thus, therapy for FND often involves not only working with the individual but also engaging with family members and other support systems to break these patterns and promote healthier dynamics.

Additionally, the “Pressure Cooker Model” introduces the idea of “valves” that need to be opened to release pressure safely. These valves represent various coping strategies and interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), physical rehabilitation, mindfulness practices, and psychoeducation. Each of these approaches serves to “release steam” in different ways, helping to manage symptoms more effectively and support the individual’s overall well-being (Rawlings et al., 2018). Understanding which “valves” are most effective requires a personalized approach, considering each client’s unique life circumstances, experiences, and needs.

The model also sheds light on the importance of validating the experiences of individuals with FND. Often, patients report feeling dismissed or misunderstood by healthcare providers who may lack knowledge about the condition, which can exacerbate feelings of isolation and distress. By framing FND as a legitimate and complex neurological condition that is influenced by multiple factors, the “Pressure Cooker Model” supports a more compassionate and comprehensive approach to treatment (Rawlings et al., 2018).

Overall, the biopsychosocial model and the “Pressure Cooker Model” provide a robust framework for understanding FND as a multifaceted condition that requires an integrated and individualized treatment approach. It moves beyond simplistic explanations and acknowledges the complexity of living with FND, offering a path forward for both clients and therapists to work together in creating meaningful change.

Key Concepts in Understanding and Managing Functional Neurological Disorder (FND)

Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) is a multifaceted condition that requires a nuanced understanding of how various factors—biological, psychological, and social—intersect to influence symptom development and persistence. To effectively treat FND, it is essential to consider the dynamic interplay between these factors and how they contribute to both the onset and maintenance of symptoms.

One of the central concepts in understanding FND is the role of stress and coping mechanisms. FND symptoms often arise or worsen when an individual faces intense emotional, psychological, or physical stress that overwhelms their ability to cope. These stressors can be diverse, ranging from trauma and interpersonal conflict to chronic illness and environmental stressors. The body’s response to such stress can lead to disruptions in normal brain functioning, which manifest as the neurological symptoms seen in FND, such as seizures, tremors, or weakness. This understanding emphasizes that FND is not simply a psychological problem or a physical one, but rather a condition where the brain’s processing and integration of sensory and motor functions become dysfunctional under pressure.

Social and environmental factors play a significant role in both the development and management of FND symptoms. Unlike many other neurological conditions, FND symptoms are highly sensitive to social contexts, including family dynamics, workplace environments, and healthcare interactions. For example, a person with FND might experience a symptom flare-up in response to social stress, such as feeling judged or unsupported by loved ones or professionals. Therefore, a comprehensive treatment approach must consider these social dimensions and aim to improve the patient’s overall sense of safety, support, and autonomy within their environment.

An important concept related to the social dimension of FND is “reciprocal reinforcement”—a process where symptoms are unintentionally maintained or exacerbated through interactions with others, particularly within close family or caregiving relationships. In these dynamics, the well-meaning actions of caregivers or family members, such as providing constant reassurance, assistance, or accommodating behaviors, may inadvertently reinforce the patient’s reliance on their symptoms to receive care or support. This cycle can create a pattern where both the person with FND and their caregivers become “stuck,” making it difficult to break free from symptom dependency and fostering a sense of helplessness. Effective management of FND involves identifying these patterns and working collaboratively to establish healthy boundaries, encourage independence, and promote more adaptive responses that support recovery.

To address these complex dynamics, multidisciplinary therapeutic interventions are crucial in the management of FND. A combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), physiotherapy, psychoeducation, and family therapy has been shown to be effective in treating FND. Each of these approaches targets different aspects of the condition:

•Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) helps patients recognize and change unhelpful thought patterns and beliefs that may be contributing to symptom persistence. For example, a person with FND may have developed a belief that any physical symptom signals a severe underlying problem, which can lead to increased anxiety and symptom exacerbation. CBT techniques can help the individual challenge these thoughts and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

•Physiotherapy is often integrated into FND treatment to address the physical manifestations of the disorder, such as limb weakness or gait disturbances. Through exercises and movement retraining, physiotherapy helps patients improve their motor function and regain confidence in their physical abilities. This is particularly important in reducing fear-avoidance behaviors, where individuals might limit their movement due to fear of symptoms worsening, which in turn can lead to deconditioning.

•Psychoeducation is a vital component of FND treatment. Educating both the patient and their family about the nature of FND—emphasizing that the symptoms are real, not imaginary, and that they stem from functional, rather than structural, issues in the brain—can help reduce stigma, build understanding, and foster a more supportive environment.

•Family therapy addresses the dynamics within family systems that may be contributing to the maintenance of symptoms. It focuses on changing interaction patterns, improving communication, setting boundaries, and supporting the family’s role in fostering the patient’s independence and recovery.

Understanding and managing FND is not about finding a one-size-fits-all solution but rather developing a personalized treatment plan that addresses the unique biopsychosocial context of each patient. By focusing on both the individual and their environment, therapists can help patients build resilience, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and navigate their path to recovery in a way that feels empowering and sustainable.

Insights into Effective Management of Functional Neurological Disorder (FND)

The management of Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) requires a collaborative, patient-centered approach that incorporates insights from both clinical research and practical tools. “A Patient’s Workbook for Functional Neurological Disorder” offers a valuable, hands-on perspective that empowers patients and their families to understand and manage FND in a collaborative and structured manner (Rawlings et al., 2018). This workbook is grounded in current best practices, emphasizing the importance of psychoeducation, self-management, and the involvement of supportive networks in the therapeutic process.

One of the workbook’s most effective tools is the “Pressure Cooker Model” exercise, which helps patients and their caregivers visually map out their unique stressors, triggers, and responses. This model is a self-reflective tool that enables individuals to identify the specific interpersonal dynamics, emotional states, and environmental factors that may be contributing to the perpetuation of FND symptoms. By doing so, it guides patients toward developing more adaptive coping strategies and healthier responses to stress. Recent literature underscores the importance of such tailored approaches, highlighting that personalized interventions which consider the unique biopsychosocial context of the patient are crucial for effective FND management (Pick et al., 2020).

The workbook also introduces the “Pressure Cooker Chain Reaction” model, which breaks down how various layers of stress—from internal emotional states, such as anxiety and frustration, to external social interactions, like conflicts or lack of support—interact to maintain or exacerbate FND symptoms (Rawlings et al., 2018). For instance, a patient might discover that their symptoms are more likely to flare up during moments of heightened interpersonal tension or when they are unable to assert their needs and boundaries effectively. By breaking down these “chain reactions,” the workbook encourages both patients and their families to gain a deeper understanding of these dynamics, allowing them to identify and alter the patterns that sustain symptoms.

Current literature reinforces this approach, suggesting that stress management and emotional regulation are key areas for intervention in FND. Stress is often a significant trigger for symptom onset or exacerbation, and studies have shown that emotional dysregulation can directly impact the severity and frequency of FND symptoms (Perez et al., 2021). Therefore, interventions that promote emotional awareness and provide tools for healthy expression and regulation are essential. The workbook includes exercises and reflections that encourage patients to explore their emotional responses, understand their triggers, and develop healthier coping mechanisms. These exercises align with evidence-based practices, such as mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), which have been shown to be effective in improving emotional regulation and reducing symptom severity in FND patients (Aybek et al., 2022).

Another key concept highlighted in the workbook is the importance of engaging supportive networks—including family members, friends, and even healthcare providers—in the treatment process. FND often involves complex relational dynamics where well-intentioned caregivers might inadvertently reinforce symptoms through overprotective or enabling behaviors. Addressing these dynamics is critical; effective management of FND often requires changing how caregivers interact with the patient, promoting greater independence, and encouraging adaptive rather than maladaptive behaviors. Literature on systemic family therapy supports this approach, showing that involving the entire support system in the therapeutic process can lead to better outcomes for individuals with FND by breaking cycles of symptom reinforcement (Edwards et al., 2021).

Psychoeducation is another cornerstone of the workbook, providing both patients and their families with clear, accessible information about FND. This demystification of the condition is vital, as misunderstanding and stigma around FND can create significant barriers to effective care and support. By normalizing the experience and educating all parties involved, the workbook helps reduce feelings of isolation and invalidation, which are common among those with FND (Rawlings et al., 2018). Best practices in FND treatment recommend ongoing psychoeducation as a critical component of care, as it not only informs but also empowers patients and their caregivers to take an active, informed role in the recovery process (Stone et al., 2020).

Finally, the workbook emphasizes gradual exposure and behavioral activation as techniques to help patients slowly re-engage with activities they may have avoided due to fear of triggering symptoms. This approach is in line with evidence-based interventions such as graded exercise therapy and graded motor imagery, which aim to rebuild confidence and functionality without overwhelming the patient (Pick et al., 2020). By helping patients understand the safe boundaries of their abilities and encouraging gradual, supported engagement with daily activities, these techniques help counteract the deconditioning and fear-avoidance behaviors that can worsen FND symptoms over time.

Overall, “A Patient’s Workbook for Functional Neurological Disorder” integrates these current best practices, offering a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach to managing FND. It provides both patients and their families with the tools and strategies needed to navigate the complexities of the condition in a collaborative, informed, and supportive manner, reflecting the evolving landscape of FND treatment.

Practical Approaches for Therapists and Clients in Managing Functional Neurological Disorder (FND)

Managing Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) requires a multifaceted approach that considers the unique experiences and needs of both therapists and clients. The following sections provide comprehensive insights into effective therapeutic strategies, empowerment and self-management tools for clients, the importance of intersectionality and individualized care, multidisciplinary collaboration, additional resources for continued learning, and the power of real-life examples through case studies.

1. Building Effective Therapeutic Strategies for Therapists

Therapists working with clients diagnosed with FND need to employ evidence-based strategies that foster a strong therapeutic alliance, comprehensive assessment, and integration of multiple modalities:

•Building a Strong Therapeutic Alliance: Establishing trust is crucial, especially for clients who may have faced stigma or disbelief regarding their symptoms. Therapists should focus on validating the client’s experiences, emphasizing that FND symptoms are real and impactful, and addressing any potential misconceptions. A non-judgmental approach can help clients feel more understood and empowered.

•Assessment and Formulation: It’s important to assess FND from a biopsychosocial perspective, recognizing both psychological and physical components. This includes understanding the client’s personal history, trauma, stressors, and current coping mechanisms, and formulating an individualized treatment plan that addresses these factors.

•Integrating Multiple Therapeutic Modalities: Effective FND management often requires integrating several therapeutic modalities. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help address maladaptive thought patterns, while trauma-informed care and somatic therapies may help clients reconnect with their bodies in a safe way. Art therapy and narrative therapy can also be useful in helping clients in a non-verbal, creative format, facilitating emotional processing and self-discovery. By tailoring interventions to the unique needs of each client, therapists can provide more comprehensive and effective care for those living with FND.

2. Empowering Clients with Self-Management Tools

For clients, understanding FND through a biopsychosocial lens can be transformative, shifting the focus from a purely medical model to one that emphasizes emotional regulation, social support, and self-awareness. Empowering clients to take an active role in their recovery involves equipping them with practical tools and strategies:

•Psychoeducation and Advocacy: Clients benefit from understanding the nature of FND and how it affects them. Therapists should provide clear, accessible information about FND, emphasizing that the symptoms are genuine and related to brain function, not imaginary. Clients can also be encouraged to advocate for their needs in healthcare settings, learning how to effectively communicate their experiences to providers who may not be familiar with FND.

•Self-Regulation Techniques: Teaching clients self-regulation techniques such as mindfulness exercises, grounding techniques, and breathing exercises can help them manage stress and reduce symptom severity. Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) have shown promise in enhancing emotional regulation and coping skills for individuals with FND.

•Building Support Systems: Clients are encouraged to build strong support networks, including family, friends, and support groups. Therapists can guide clients in cultivating supportive relationships that provide emotional validation and practical assistance, without inadvertently reinforcing FND symptoms.

3. Embracing Intersectionality and Providing Individualized Care

Recognizing the diverse identities and experiences of clients is vital in providing effective FND treatment, especially for those within marginalized communities:

•Navigating Identity and FND: Therapists should consider how FND symptoms intersect with issues related to gender identity, sexual orientation, and neurodivergence. For example, a trans client with FND may experience additional challenges related to gender dysphoria or discrimination. Therapists need to create safe, affirming spaces where clients can explore these complexities without fear of judgment.

•Trauma-Informed Approaches: Many clients with FND have experienced trauma, whether related to systemic oppression, medical trauma, or personal history. A trauma-informed approach recognizes the profound impact of these experiences on mental and physical health and emphasizes safety, empowerment, and trustworthiness in the therapeutic process.

4. The Importance of Multidisciplinary Collaboration

FND management is most effective when approached through multidisciplinary care, involving coordination between various healthcare professionals:

•Coordinating Care: Effective communication with a multidisciplinary team, including neurologists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and psychologists, is essential to ensure comprehensive care. Therapists can help coordinate care by facilitating regular team meetings, sharing progress notes, and aligning treatment goals.

•Understanding the Role of Each Professional: Each professional plays a unique role in managing FND. For instance, neurologists may rule out structural neurological conditions, physiotherapists focus on movement retraining and physical rehabilitation, while psychotherapists address the psychological and social factors contributing to FND. Understanding these roles helps therapists and clients work collaboratively toward holistic treatment.

5. Further Learning and Support: Calls to Action

For both therapists and clients, ongoing education and support are crucial in managing FND effectively:

•Further Reading and Resources: Encourage readers to explore additional literature, such as academic articles, books like “A Clinician’s Guide to Functional Neurological Disorder” and “A Patient’s Workbook for Functional Neurological Disorder,” and online resources that delve deeper into understanding FND.

•Joining Support Groups: Highlight the benefits of joining FND-specific support groups, both online and in-person, where individuals can share experiences, gain support, and learn from others facing similar challenges. Support groups provide a sense of community and reduce feelings of isolation.

•Engaging with Our Practice: Invite readers to schedule free consults, attend workshops, or participate in webinars offered by your practice to gain more insights and learn strategies to manage FND.

Case Studies

1. Alex’s Journey with the “Pressure Cooker Model”

Background: Alex, a 32-year-old nonbinary individual who uses they/them pronouns, began experiencing FND symptoms, including non-epileptic seizures and episodes of limb weakness, following a period of intense stress at work. As an activist and community organizer, Alex frequently navigates environments that can be hostile to their identity, which has contributed to chronic stress and anxiety.

Therapeutic Approach: In therapy, Alex worked with their therapist to use the “Pressure Cooker Model” to map out their stressors. They identified specific triggers, such as confrontational encounters in their activism work, lack of sleep, and feeling unsupported in their personal relationships. By visualizing how these stressors built up “pressure,” Alex and their therapist explored strategies to release this pressure before it reached a critical point.

Interventions: Alex learned to implement self-regulation techniques, such as mindfulness and grounding exercises, to manage immediate stress responses. They also worked on establishing clearer boundaries in their activism work, which included delegating tasks to reduce their emotional burden. Additionally, they attended a support group for queer activists where they could safely share their experiences and receive validation from peers.

Outcome: Over time, Alex reported a significant reduction in the frequency and intensity of their FND symptoms. By understanding their triggers and developing new coping mechanisms, they were able to approach their work and relationships more sustainably. Alex found that being proactive about managing stress was key to their symptom management and overall well-being.

2. Sam’s Story: Navigating FND and Gender Dysphoria

Background: Sam, a 28-year-old trans man, developed FND symptoms, such as functional tremors and dissociative episodes, shortly after starting testosterone hormone replacement therapy. While excited about his gender transition, he found himself grappling with unexpected physical symptoms that disrupted his daily life. His symptoms were exacerbated by past trauma related to being misgendered and discriminated against in healthcare settings.

Therapeutic Approach: In therapy, Sam’s therapist recognized the intersection of his FND symptoms with his gender dysphoria and past trauma. They took a trauma-informed approach, ensuring that Sam felt safe and supported in exploring these intersections. The therapist used somatic experiencing to help Sam reconnect with his body safely and build awareness around his physical sensations without triggering a dysphoric response.

Interventions: Together, Sam and his therapist developed a safety plan for when symptoms occurred, incorporating grounding exercises and a “safe space” visualization technique. They also worked on addressing his fears around seeking medical help due to past experiences of transphobia. Over time, Sam learned to advocate for himself more effectively in healthcare settings and built a more supportive network of healthcare providers who understood his unique needs.

Outcome: Sam experienced a noticeable improvement in his FND symptoms as he became more comfortable navigating his healthcare journey. By addressing both his FND and his gender dysphoria in a holistic manner, he found a greater sense of safety and confidence in his identity and health management.

3. Jamie’s Path to Empowerment through Psychoeducation and Support

Background: Jamie, a 40-year-old genderqueer individual, experienced functional paralysis in their legs, which was exacerbated by a recent relationship breakup and workplace harassment due to their gender expression. Jamie felt overwhelmed and misunderstood by both their social circle and their healthcare providers.

Therapeutic Approach: Jamie’s therapist focused on psychoeducation to help them understand FND as a legitimate neurological condition rather than “all in their head.” The therapist provided resources on FND and facilitated discussions around how Jamie’s symptoms were connected to layers of stress and emotional trauma.

Interventions: Jamie participated in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to challenge unhelpful beliefs about their body and symptoms. They also engaged in expressive arts therapy, which allowed them to process their emotions creatively. Through art, Jamie explored themes of strength, resilience, and identity, which helped them reconnect with parts of themselves that felt lost in the midst of their symptoms.

Outcome: Jamie began to experience gradual improvements in their physical symptoms and emotional well-being. By understanding FND through a biopsychosocial lens and receiving consistent support, Jamie learned to navigate their stressors more effectively and found empowerment in reclaiming their story.

4. Taylor’s Healing Journey: A Multidisciplinary Approach

Background: Taylor, a 35-year-old queer woman, started experiencing functional sensory loss and episodes of temporary blindness following a history of abusive relationships. The symptoms became more frequent and debilitating when she started dating again, triggering fears and memories of past abuse.

Therapeutic Approach: Taylor’s treatment plan included a multidisciplinary approach involving a psychotherapist, a neurologist, and a physiotherapist. Her psychotherapist focused on trauma-informed care to address her past experiences and the associated triggers that led to her FND symptoms.

Interventions: Taylor’s team created a coordinated care plan. Her physiotherapist introduced gentle, graded motor imagery exercises to help her regain confidence in her sensory abilities. Meanwhile, her psychotherapist worked with her on somatic therapy techniques to release stored trauma from her body. Taylor was also encouraged to join a queer survivors’ group for peer support and shared healing.

Outcome: With the support of her multidisciplinary team and the peer group, Taylor began to regain her sense of safety in her body and her ability to trust others. She learned new skills for emotional regulation and built a network of support that helped her manage her FND symptoms more effectively.

Conclusion: Building a Path to Healing Together

Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) is a complex condition that benefits from a comprehensive, individualized, and compassionate approach to care. By combining practical strategies for therapists, empowering clients with self-management tools, understanding the importance of intersectionality and individualized care, fostering multidisciplinary collaboration, offering resources for continued learning, and sharing real-life examples, we can create a supportive and effective framework for managing FND. This approach ensures that both therapists and clients are equipped with the insights and tools needed to navigate the challenges of FND in a way that is both informed and empathetic.

At our practice, we integrate knowledge from “A Clinician’s Guide to Functional Neurological Disorder” and “A Patient’s Workbook for Functional Neurological Disorder” to provide a holistic and tailored treatment experience. We strive to create a therapeutic environment that is inclusive, anti-oppressive, and deeply understanding of each individual’s unique journey with FND. If you or someone you know is living with FND or related concerns, we encourage you to take the first step toward healing by scheduling a free 15-minute consultation with Audrey Wolfe, RCC, here, or by joining the waitlist to work with Clayre Sessoms, RP, RCT, RCC, RCAT, CCC, ATR-BC, here. Our goal is to provide a safe, supportive space that honors your experiences and supports you on your path to wellness.

References

Rawlings, G., Reuber, M., Stone, J., & McCormick, M. (2018). A Patient’s Workbook for Functional Neurological Disorder. Routledge.

Rawlings, G., Reuber, M., Stone, J., & McCormick, M. (2018). FND Stories. Routledge.

Stone, J., Reuber, M., & Rawlings, G. (2018). A Clinician’s Guide to Functional Neurological Disorder. Routledge.