Dissociation, Attachment Trauma & the Brainstem with Nikki Nooteboom

Going Inside: Healing Trauma from the Inside Out

Dissociation, Attachment Trauma & the Brainstem with Nikki Nooteboom

In this episode of Going Inside, Dutch therapist and trainer Nikki Nooteboom joins John to explore how neurobiology is reshaping trauma therapy. From the vestibular system to dissociation and the default mode network, Nikki breaks down the deep physiological roots of trauma — and how to work with them more effectively in clinical practice. If you've ever wondered why some clients can't stay grounded or why insight alone doesn't lead to healing, this conversation is for you.

🔑 3 Key Takeaways

1. Why Knowing Isn’t Healing: Insight alone doesn’t shift trauma — the body must first rediscover safety through bottom-up integration.
2. The Vestibular System’s Role in Trauma: Learn how trauma disrupts orientation and balance at a neurological level — and why that matters more than we think.
3. Beyond Coping: Creating Real Safety in the Brain: Discover how consistent, structured grounding practices can actually rewire a brain organized around survival.

👤 Guest: Nikki Nooteboom

Nikki Nooteboom is a Dutch therapist and trainer who integrates neurobiology with trauma healing methods like IFS, EMDR, and somatic therapies. Her work focuses on making therapy more effective by working with the brain from the bottom up. She also trains other therapists, social workers, and bodyworkers in neuro-informed approaches through the Finding Solid Ground program and the Trauma-Informed Academy.

• Website (Therapy): www.neuroinformedcare.com
• Website (Trainings): www.traumainformedacademy.org
• LinkedIn: Nikki Nooteboom
• Instagram: @traumatherapeut_nikki

Resources & Offerings:

➡️ Free IFS Training for Therapists: From Burnout to Balance: https://go.johnclarketherapy.com/ifs-webinar-podcast

➡️ 1-Month Grace Period with Jane – Use code JOHN or visit: https://meet.jane.app/john-clarke-ambassador

➡️ 10% Off at Grounding Well – Use code GWJOHNCLARKE or visit: https://www.groundingwell.com/GWJOHNCLARKE

➡️ 10% Off at Dharma Dr. – Use code JOHN or visit: https://dharmadr.com/JOHN

Connect with Me:

https://www.johnclarketherapy.com/
https://www.instagram.com/johnclarketherapy/
https://www.tiktok.com/@johnclarketherapy
https://www.youtube.com/@johnclarketherapy

Grab Your Seat for the Free IFS Webinar Here: https://go.johnclarketherapy.com/ifs-webinar-podcast

➡️ Free Training - Learn how to integrate the principles of IFS into your therapy practice: https://go.johnclarketherapy.com/ifs-webinar-podcast