Neurodiversity
What is Neurodiversity / Individual / Counseling Neurodiverse Couples
01.
What is Neurodiversity
As a Neurodiverse individual, I know how difficult it can be to navigate relationships and marriages. I understand the conflict and communication challenges that arise when your brains function in two different ways. This is why I have sought to support individuals in changing the relationship dynamics by improving communication and learning tools to resolve conflict. I am passionate about helping individuals to be the best versions of themselves so they can show up in the relationship in a calm, caring, and connected way.
“Neurodiverse” refers to a community of people whose members are neurodivergent.
Neurodiversity is an approach to education and ability that supports the fact that various neurological conditions are the effect of normal changes and variations in the human genome.
ADHD, Autism, Dyspraxia, Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, and Dyslexia all fall within the spectrum of “Neurodiversity” and are all neurodiverse conditions. Visit this page for more information about autism counseling for adults.
Neuro-differences are recognised and appreciated as a social category similar to differences in ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, or ability.
For example, a neurodivergent condition such as dyslexia is an integral part of a person. To take away their dyslexia is to take away from the person.
02.
Am I Neurodivergent?
Is something wrong with me?
You may be here because you feel you are struggling at work, in a career, connecting with a partner, or just feeling overwhelmed and anxious during routine tasks. This can lead to feelings of helplessness and a view that you are broken or weird but the truth is there is NOTHING wrong with you, you're just different.
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Being neurodivergent means having a brain that works differently from the average or “neurotypical” person. This may be differences in social preferences, ways of learning, ways of communicating and/or ways of perceiving the environment. Because of this, a neurodivergent person has different struggles and unique strengths. People who are neurodivergent can benefit from education and programs that help them develop their strengths using them to their benefit to live happy, healthy lives.​ Counseling and coaching can help individuals understand their differences and learn skills to improve functioning at work, in relationships, or personally. We look to improve your self esteem and perception of self to grow confidence.
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Quiz available at: https://exceptionalindividuals.com/candidates/neurodiversity-resources/neurodiversity-quizzes/
02.
What is ASD
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
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Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that affects socialization, communication, executive function, and how the brain processes sensory information. ASD encompasses a broad array of symptoms and levels of impairment.
In some, ASD presents as an “invisible” disability in which people may appear neurotypical to outside observers, sometimes resulting in missed diagnoses or unmet support needs. In others, ASD can cause significant social and functional impairments that require intensive, lifelong support.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, roughly 1 in 59 people in the United States have ASD, with the condition being diagnosed four times more often in boys than girls. ASD is generally diagnosed with delays or atypical functioning in at least one of the following areas: social interaction, language as used in social communication, or symbolic and imaginative play.
People with autism often have difficulties with social interactions. Approximately 40 percent do not communicate with words. Some may have obsessive routines or maybe preoccupied with a particular item or subject. Behaviors that seem odd or unusual are due to the neurological differences and not the result of intentional rudeness or "bad" behaviors.
03.
What will Counseling Focus on?
Neurodiversity affirming psychotherapy is an approach to supporting mental health. Focusing on individual strengths and unique abilities, this therapeutic approach helps individuals to tap into and recognize their positive attributes and work towards meeting personal goals. Supporting individuals in learning self-advocacy skills to allow them to create opportunities to thrive, your therapist can help you to discover alternatives to masking and trying to fit neurotypical norms that may be negatively impacting your self-worth, overall sense of well-being, or mental health.
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Some of the topics we may focus on are:
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Time management
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Sensory challenges
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Assertive communication and Self Advocacy
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Empathy
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Emotionally supporting others
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Taking charge
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Building Relationships
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Managing emotions that arise from stress or broken routines
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Managing Meltdowns
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Build Self Esteem
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Promote independence
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Boundaries
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Identify Emotions