My view on neurodivergence is non-pathologising. This means that I do not believe that neurodivergence (e.g. autism, ADHD, dyslexia) is a medical condition, as such, but rather just a different nervous system (or “neurotype”), and an alternative way to experience and process the world. However, navigating this environment built for neurotypical people can be exhausting and disabling, as well as traumatising and isolating for neurodivergent individuals.

This is the main reason why many of us suffer from significant and life restricting mental health problems. Unfortunately, it can also be very hard to find the right support, which is why I have founded Autistically Brilliant. There are many people, who, for one reason or another, do not have an “official” diagnosis, which can stop them accessing services meant for neurodivergent people. My services don’t require a diagnosis, as I believe that self-identified neurodivergence is entirely valid.

Often, neurodivergent people struggle with traditional talking therapies, due to the unstructured nature of them and the use of abstract, open-ended and ambiguous questions, as well as (at times) symbolic language. The need to sit still for an hour and the neurotypical assumptions to do with eye contact can also cause difficulties.

Neurodivergent clients often struggle with extended silences and knowing what is expected of them in sessions. Furthermore, mindfulness based therapies can cause distress, as the emptying/quieting of the mind can be extremely difficult for these clients (they might be flooded with unwanted thoughts).

Therefore, traditional types of therapies can actually end up being a cause of additional stress. On the other hand, CBT type, structured therapies can also be hard for neurodivergent people, as the philosophy and techniques might feel invalidating or like they are missing the mark.

I work with neurodivergent people in a tailored way that makes it easier for them to engage with therapy and initiate change, as well as feel more listened to, understood and validated.

I see it as an important part of my work to also tell people things about neurodivergence they might not have known beforehand. Often it entails discussing the strengths inherent in neurodivergence. The reason why people do not tend to know of them is because many people have been given a medical diagnosis, so, naturally, they are prone to viewing their neurodivergence as a medical condition with “symptoms”. This causes them to believe that there is only so much they can ever do and achieve in their lives. I see it as my mission to raise neurodivergent individuals’ self-esteem and self-confidence, as well as facilitating increased self-knowledge and supporting them to live full, happy and ambitious lives.

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