Human diversity exists in many wonderful ways, including in the human brain. Our brains are delightfully diverse and we are all the better for it! Neurodiversity refers to this concept, that there is variation between the ways our brains work. Neurodivergence refers to identified patterns in brain and body functioning, or ways of experiencing the world, that diverge from the majority of people in some way. Common labels or categorizations that have been assigned to these variations are ADHD, Autism, Sensory Processing Disorder, Synesthesia, Highly Sensitive Person, among others. These labels were created to try to categorize complex, varied, and overlapping constellations of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors experienced by neurodivergent people to aid in determining or directing care. In reality neurodivergence is more complex, and less clearly defined than diagnostic labels have been able to describe.

Why is it important to talk about neurodiversity and neurodivergence?

Because most of our systems and systemic expectations are designed by and for a specific neurotype. Most neurodivergent people who are able to mask, or hide their neurodivergence, have been socialized to do so, at great detriment to their wellbeing. As we grow as a society and learn from each other how to be more and more inclusive of all people, neurodivergent people have been able to be more open and forthcoming about their experiences leading to more research, writing, activism, and advocacy around this topic.

Neurodivergent Affirming Care

I am here to help people learn more about their neurodivergence, how the world impacts them, unravel feelings around living in a world that doesn’t feel like it was made for them, explore relationships, explore school or work challenges, cultivate self-acceptance and compassion, or learn skills to navigate school, work, and social situations.