What is a neurodivergent-affirming approach to counseling?

For some finding this post, the term ‘neurodiversity’ may be completely new. For others, it may evoke autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, HSP (Highly Sensitive Person), or other labels that typically fall under the umbrella of neurodiversity. And, you may have any number of reactions to these terms.

And, yes, neurodiversity definitely includes those labels, and those labels have very real and useful meanings themselves. However, neurodiversity, at its core, means that every brain is different.

Therefore, a neurodiverse approach to counseling means that I strive to get to know you as you are and within your contexts, rather than trying to fit you into a preconceived box. It also means that I take the time to understand what you want out of counseling, and I collaborate with you to create goals that are specific to you and get at the heart of you want to achieve in therapy.

The “affirming” part, then, simply means that we see our work together as an opportunity for you to get to know yourself better and to have a different (and more positive) relationship to yourself. This leads to a better understanding of not only the struggles you experience but also your strengths and your resiliencies. Together, we can then use this information to tailor the therapeutic relationship to you and your goals.

Implied in this understanding of affirming support is that we aim to reduce shame. There are many ways to exist in this world; unfortunately ways that are perceived to be ‘different’ are often labeled as ‘bad,’ and that judgement can come from many directions: society, our families, and (of course) ourselves. For true growth to happen, we must begin to accept and have compassion for ourselves; by bringing a non-judgmental approach to ourselves, we are free to look forward and find ways to navigate our lives and experiences in ways that can work better for us.

You still may be thinking: I am interested in this approach to therapy, but what if I don’t want a diagnosis, a label, or to identify as “neurodivergent” myself? The short answer is: you don’t have to. I understand that diagnoses can help many people; yet, for others, the label is not as helpful. Part of a neurodivergent affirming approach is to allow my clients to explore and determine the lenses or ways of understanding oneself that they would like to use.

If you are curious about working with me, or if you have more questions to determine I’d be the right fit for you, please go to my “Get Started” page and fill out the contact form. I’d be happy to talk with you and answer any questions you may have.