Autism and ADHD

(Neurodivergence)

What is Neurodivergence?

Neurodivergence is an umbrella term we use to describe the way ADHD and Autistic brains work differently from neurotypical counterparts.

Unlike some other mental health conditions that may come and go across the lifespan, Autism and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is developmental. This means the traits associated with Autism and ADHD such as executive functioning challenges, differences in communication, and sensory issues, are not meant to be “fixed” — it’s just the way the neurodivergent brain operates.

The Importance of Neurodivergent Care

Our world is build for the neurotypical brain with few accommodations and little understanding of the neurodivergent experience. This leads many ADHD, Autism, or AuDHD people to be undiagnosed, misdiagnosed, and pathologized because of their differences. It also leads to sub-par or unhelpful treatment.

As such, neurodivergent individuals often go their entire lives feeling broken and misunderstood by doctors, therapists, peers, and family members. As they try to navigate these situations and connect with others, they often begin "masking" to hide their differences and ignore their needs.

Masking is often exhausting and energy intensive, leading to several secondary challenges such as autistic burnout, Anxiety, Depression, Complex Trauma, and in some cases OCD-like behaviors. Over time, this furthers the cycle of misdiagnosis and incorrect treatment, meaning neurodivergent clients can go years (even decades) without feeling better, as the root cause of their challenges is never adequately addressed.

What Makes Neurodivergent-Affirming Therapy Different?

In simplest terms, I help clients work with the brain they have, rather than against it. I also take careful consideration to understand and differentiate between mental health concerns and environmental challenges caused by a lack of support and understanding around a client's neurodivergent traits.

For example, there are major differences in difference between depression and autistic burnout, even though symptoms look similar on the surface. Burnout and depression not only have different courses of treatment, but also often have different timelines of recovery. Being able to spot the difference between the two is integral to being able to provide meaningful, practical, care.

How Neurodivergent Therapy Can Help

Therapy for Autism and ADHD functions similarly to regular individual counseling, but with added attention to the nuances of neurodivergence. As such, there is additional work on understanding, cultivating, and supporting clients in the following ways:

  • Working with your brain rather than trying to "fix" it

  • Self-understanding and self-acceptance around how neurodivergence impacts everyday life

  • Navigating sensory sensitivities and connecting with sensory joy

  • Understanding, healing from, and avoiding autistic burnout

  • Managing masking, rejection sensitivity, and emotional regulation challenges

  • Developing tools and systems to support executive functioning challenges (planning, memory, time blindness, task switching, etc.)

  • Understanding social communication differences

  • Addressing co-occurring conditions such as Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma

  • Processing complex emotions that can occur from late-diagnosis or misdiagnosis

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Yes— I actually specialize in this! People who are late-diagnosed or high-masking often have different needs and concerns compared to those who have known about their neurodivergence since childhood, especially as it relates to internalized ableism, shame, grief, and complex trauma.

  • Absolutely! Late-diagnosed and high-masking people are often self-diagnosed before seeking therapy. There is no need to have a formal diagnosis to begin therapy or explore parts of yourself that you feel resonate with the ADHD or Autistic experience.

  • I work with your brain rather than against it. We will take into account both your challenges and your strengths, and problem solve accordingly. The therapy space is also welcoming of different sensory needs, types of stimming, eye contact, and communication styles.

  • I offer many different types of evidence-based therapy for people wanting individual counseling, and provide all services through a trauma-informed lens. Here are some examples:

    The type of therapy used depends on what a client wants to work on, and any additional challenges they may be dealing with.

  • No, but I have several colleagues that do!

    For clients that want a formal diagnosis, I can provide referrals in addition to support working with their assessor if needed.

Neurodivergent-affirming Therapy in Arizona

As a LGBTQ+ therapist and diagnosed neurodivergent person myself, I take identity and neurodivergent-affirming care very seriously. I have walked this path myself and know just how important the right care can be.

I provide individual counseling to adults in the state of Arizona and maintain an LGBTQ+ friendly and trans-inclusive practice, in addition to supporting BIPOC individuals and those who are twice-exceptional (2e).

If you're interested in working together, have more questions, or want to schedule a free consultation, feel free to reach out! I'm always happy to chat and answer any questions you may have.