Perhaps you noticed on my homepage that I identify as multiply-neurodivergent. Given that, it may not surprise you that I found it enormously satisfying to create the silly AI-generated image on this page!

Neurodivergence is often represented as an umbrella with an ever-growing list of diagnoses underneath it. Instead of an umbrella, I imagine the neurodivergent community under a large tent, a boundary distinct from the harsh and inhospitable climate of neuronormativity. So, join me in this cool, shady tent as we explore how to find respite and community when the environment can challenge our survival. We have fidget toys, squishmellows, and really good music in here!

What is considered neurodivergent?

According to neurodivergent scholar and activist Nick Walker, author of Neuroqueer Heresies (2021), a person is neurodivergent if they diverge from the prevailing culturally-constructed and mandated standards and performance that their culture expects from a person with an imagined “normal mind.”

What is your experience working with neurodivergence?

Currently, my experience and focus has been with ADHD, Autism, sensory processing differences, TBI, PTSD, and complex PTSD. Sometimes a client may need something different in our mindfulness practice or in the sensory environment of my office. Some clients express “neurotype dysphoria” or a clash between their neurotype and their identity or aspirations. A lot of neurodivergent folks share a personal history of not feeling safe or affirmed at home and experiencing institutional oppression at school, work, medical spaces, or in psychotherapy.

I will do my best to create a therapeutic environment that supports you. However, if you need psychotherapy that is beyond my scope of practice, I will help you find a therapist with a deeper understanding of your neurotype.

If you have already been diagnosed as neurodivergent:

We can discuss how I can affirm your needs and experience in a free 20-minute consultation call. Perhaps you have requests around how we get started (filling out forms, scheduling) or you have concerns about how somatic therapy might look for you (What if I don’t like to sit still or I want to stim? What will the intake or assessment process look like?)

If you are questioning if you meet criteria for a specific neurodivergent diagnosis:

I can offer a support and information. However, I will likely need to refer you to another type of clinician like a neuropsychologist. I can assist you in building a team of clinicians to support your needs, which might include psychiatry, occupational therapy, a nutritionist or eating disorder coach, or executive function coaching.

If I’m going to refer you to other clinicians to meet your needs as a neurodivergent person, then what is the point of seeing me?

I’m your therapist, here to help you process difficult emotions and experiences, and to help you build resources in and outside of your body to feel safe and balanced. I’m here to help you access the confidence and self-compassion to advocate for yourself and even seek formal accommodations.

I cannot and likely would not want to cure your neurodivergence. I’m here to support your emotional wellbeing. I just happen to know other professionals that can help you reach a deeper level of integrated well-being in your daily life.

Can you offer me a fun and interesting fact?

Yes, I can! I am seeking formal certification in sex therapy. You may wonder what this has to do with you. The fact is that many neurodivergent folks have unique ways of expressing and regulating themselves in ways related to solo sex, partnered sex, gender, sexuality, and relationship styles. You will never need to wonder if it is okay to explore these parts of yourself in our sessions.