What is Neurodivergence?
Neurodiversity is a word we use to describe the unique differences in the ways our brain works. People experience and interact with the world around them in many different ways; there is no one "right" way of thinking, learning, and behaving, and differences are not viewed as deficits. Explore the different types of neurodivergence below:
Impact of Neurodivergence
Anxiety, social anxiety, frustration, low self-esteem, feelings of inadequacy, mood swings, depression, sensory overload
Difficulty with social cues, feeling misunderstood or isolated,
challenges in forming relationships, feeling like an outsider
Difficulty focusing, impulsivity, executive function challenges, sensory
seeking or avoiding behaviours, time-management challenges
How can therapy help?
Supporting & Affirming Space
Building trust in a safe and affirming space for individuals to explore their challenges without the fear of judgment. This is done by going at their pace and creating support.
Skill Building
Building coping skills to manage the challenges associated with neurodivergence. These skills include relaxation techniques, mindfulness, acceptance, challenging unhelpful thoughts and emotion regulation.
Acceptance & Compassion
Therapy can help foster acceptance and compassion towards oneself by helping individuals celebrate their unique strengths and perspectives, promoting self-confidence and embracing their identity.
Building a Support System
Strengthening relationships can provide individuals with valuable resources during times of distress. This includes exploring community resources and building current or new relationships.
Why is Trauma-Informed Therapy Important?
Safety & Trust
Prioritizes creating a safe and trusting environment where individuals feel secure to explore past traumas without fear.
Emotional Regulation
Equips individuals with specialized techniques to regulate overwhelming emotions stemming from past traumas or hardships
Empowerment
Empowers individuals to reclaim their sense of control and agency, facilitating the journey towards healing and recovery.
