How Trauma Can Impact Your Executive Functioning



Listen on Apple Podcasts



Listen on Spotify

In this episode, I’m joined again by Serena Renee, certified trauma coach, leadership coach and founder of Forward Thinking Trauma Coaching.
We’re talking about what can happen to executive functioning when the brain is dealing with chronic stress or trauma, and why skills like working memory, planning, flexibility and emotional regulation can suddenly feel much harder.
Serena explains the difference between an executive functioning skill deficit and a more context-dependent performance challenge, plus why feeling safe matters so much.
We also talk about procrastination, overwhelm, slowing down before speeding up and why resilience is not about handling everything alone. Sometimes, connection is one of the most powerful tools we have.

Resources:

Serena’s website for the free quiz to determine if you are living from safety or survival – click on it for some strategies: coachingfortrauma.com
Serena’s email: serena@coachingfortrauma.com
IG: @forwardthinkingtraumacoach
Substack: @forwardthinkingtraumacoach
FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61580203794172
Serena’s Newsletter: https://www.coachingfortrauma.com/#newsletter-signup

Episode Highlights

(02:54) – What happens when your brain starts prioritizing protection over performance

(05:41) – Why working memory, emotional regulation and planning can take such a hit under stress

(12:06) – ADHD or trauma-related executive functioning challenges? The difference context can reveal

(18:20) – Why “What’s wrong with me?” might be the wrong question to ask

(21:07) – Serena’s “slow down before I speed up” strategy for overwhelm

(24:15) – Resilience is not about doing everything alone, connection matters



Love what you're hearing? Help us spread the word!

Drop us a rating and review on whatever platform you use – it makes a huge difference in helping other people discover content that could really help them. We’re so grateful you’re part of our community!

Leave a Review!

Welcome to Tomorrow's School Psych Podcast!

My episodes provide practical strategies and resources for school psychologists and special education professionals to better support students and families.