Processing preverbal trauma through psychodrama: A Korean adoptee autoethnography

Preverbal trauma, language erasure, and cultural loss are significant yet underexplored experiences among transnational adoptees. This reflective autoethnographic account examines how psychodrama supported the healing of trauma from early abandonment and loss as a Korean adoptee. Drawing on trauma theory, somatic research, and adoption studies, I analyze a pivotal psychodrama reenactment that facilitated profound emotional release and processing of preverbal trauma. Findings emphasize trauma-informed, culturally attuned, and embodied approaches for adoptees and clients with early trauma histories.