Neurodivergent-Affirming Counseling

As someone who is neurodivergent myself, I advocate both through my work with clients and in my broader life for a paradigm shift—one that recognizes the inherent value of diverse neurological experiences. While we might explore certain skills to manage your experience, we do so to support your living not to conform to dominate social norms.

Neurodiversity and Neurodivergence

Neurodivergence is an inclusive umbrella term used to describe a wide spectrum of natural variations of the human brain. Autism and ADHD is often what people first think of but other experiences include:

• Acquired Conditions: Acquired/Traumatic Brain Injury, Cerebral Palsy, Dementia, Epilepsy, FASD, Hearing and Visual Impairments, Parkinsons, etc.
• Developmental Conditions: Down Syndrome, Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, Dysgraphia, Dyspraxia, DLD, DCD, Misophonia, Sensory Processing Disorders, Synesthesia, etc.
• Mental Health Conditions: ADHD, Autism, OCD, PTSD and C-PTSD, DID, Schizophrenia (sometimes de-pathologized as Vision/Voice Experiences), Mood and Anxiety conditions, personality disorders, etc.

Rather than viewing these experiences as deficient and wrong because they are different, neurodivergent-affirming counseling views the challenges, strengths, and unique ways of experiencing the world as natural diversity of the human experience. In our work we can overcome stigma, challenge (external and internalized) ableism and validate intersectional and culturally inclusive perspective ways of understanding your experience.

Neurodivergent-Affirming Counseling Approach

In neurodivergent-affirming counseling, I prioritize creating a safe, validating, and inclusive environment for clients of all neurotypes. This means:

1. Honoring Neurodiversity: Embracing the unique strengths, perspectives, and experiences that come with neurodivergence.
2. Empowering Autonomy: Respecting the autonomy and self-determination of neurodivergent individuals in defining their own identities and paths to wellness.
3. Cultivating Accessibility: Ensuring that therapy is accessible to all, regardless of communication styles, sensory sensitivities, or other individual needs.
4. Advocating for Justice: Addressing systemic barriers and advocating for the rights and accommodations that enable neurodivergent individuals to thrive in society.

There are many unique concerns for neurodivergent folks as they enter counseling. 

• You may be questioning whether or not neurodivergence is a part of your experience and identity. 
• You might be exploring the impact masking has had on your life and sense of self. 
• Maybe you want to explore how to navigate social dynamics authentically. 
• Or even how to exist within a society that is often actively hostile to those who live life on their own terms. 

Together we can embark on a journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and liberation. Having a grounding in your worth can help you to feel more decisive and confident as you navigate life. I am here to accompany you with compassion, understanding, and a commitment to validity and importance of your experience.

Ready to get started? Take the next step today! Contact me to setup your free initial consultation, and get ready to start your journey towards a life you love!