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<p>Language deprivation occurs when a Deaf individual grows up without consistent access to a fully accessible language, such as sign language. This deprivation affects the development of neural networks essential for communication, emotional regulation, and cognitive growth. For Deaf parents, these challenges may unintentionally influence their children, creating intergenerational patterns of communication barriers, emotional strain, [&hellip;]</p>

<p>The Coda identity is a complex and unique experience rooted in the intersection of Deaf and hearing worlds. Codas (Children of Deaf Adults) grow up navigating two distinct cultural and linguistic environments, often becoming language brokers/interpreters, cultural mediators, and advocates at an early age. This unique role shapes their sense of self, worldview, and interpersonal [&hellip;]</p>

<p>Language is the foundation of human connection, learning, and thought. For Deaf children, access to an accessible language—such as sign language—during critical developmental years is essential not just for communication but for brain health and cognitive resilience. Yet, many Deaf children experience language deprivation, a condition with far-reaching implications for their neural development, cognitive abilities, [&hellip;]</p>

<p>For many Codas (Children of Deaf Adults), the loss of a Deaf parent is more than the loss of a loved one—it can feel like losing a piece of ourselves. As Codas, we are “deaf by association,” immersed in a culture and language that often defines who we are. When our Deaf parent passes away, [&hellip;]</p>

<p>Brainspotting, a powerful trauma therapy, has proven especially effective for Deaf individuals, offering a unique, visual, and sensory-based approach to healing. Unlike many talk therapies, Brainspotting doesn’t rely heavily on verbal processing, making it an accessible and empowering option for Deaf clients. Here’s why Brainspotting works so well for Deaf individuals and how it aligns [&hellip;]</p>

<p>Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) has become a highly effective, research-backed therapy for trauma, anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. However, for Deaf individuals, this therapy offers unique advantages that make it especially transformative. Let’s explore why EMDR is particularly well-suited for Deaf clients, providing accessible and inclusive healing opportunities. 1.&nbsp;Non-Verbal Processing Supports [&hellip;]</p>

<p>Not all Codas (Children of Deaf Adults) are the same or share the same experiences. Some Codas may experience executive dysfunction and this can significantly impact Codas in unique ways due to their bimodal bilingualism, early responsibilities, and often complex, trauma-influenced backgrounds. Here’s a closer look at how executive dysfunction may show up for Codas [&hellip;]</p>

<p>Children of Deaf Adults (Codas) grow up at the intersection of two worlds: the Deaf world, where visual-spatial language and culture are paramount, and the hearing world, where auditory language and music are central to communication and expression. This dual exposure shapes Codas in extraordinary ways, fostering a unique, often profound connection to music. This [&hellip;]</p>

<p>As a Coda (Child of Deaf Adults), your upbringing was likely anything but typical. You’ve lived between two worlds—Deaf and hearing—with a unique blend of language, culture, and responsibility that shaped who you are today. But finding a therapist who truly “gets” the Coda experience can be challenging. Many therapists might miss the nuances of [&hellip;]</p>

<p>Imagine growing up with a &#8220;superpower&#8221; that lets you fluently navigate two distinct worlds, each with its own language, culture, and way of thinking. For Codas (Children of Deaf Adults), being bimodal bilinguals—able to communicate in both a spoken and a signed language—is exactly that! This incredible skill opens up unique cognitive abilities and enhances [&hellip;]</p>

<p>When we think of trauma, we often consider the individuals directly impacted. Yet trauma, particularly within families, rarely stays contained to one person or generation. For Deaf individuals and their families, trauma is an intricate web of lived experiences, shared emotions, and inherited coping strategies that can deeply affect both Deaf and hearing children alike. [&hellip;]</p>

<p>Hello and welcome to the Space Between! I’m excited to introduce myself and share a little about who I am, the work I do, and my mission to create meaningful change for Deaf individuals, Codas, and the broader community. My name is Joy Plote, and I’m a licensed counselor and a proud Coda (Child of [&hellip;]</p>

<p>Hello and welcome to my blog! I’m excited to introduce myself and share a little about who I am, the work I do, and my mission to create meaningful change for Deaf individuals, Codas, and the broader community. My name is Joy Plote, and I am a licensed counselor, trauma specialist, and a proud Coda [&hellip;]</p>