Neurodiversity Therapy
Neurodiversity is a term used to describe the natural variation in human brain function, learning and information processing.
Neurodivergence describes the specific traits and features associated with conditions like Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, Tourette's Syndrome and Dyspraxia.
Neurotypical is used to describe the more typical or mainstream way that people may learn or function according to societal norms. It describes someone who thinks and processes information in a way that is expected for their age and cultural group.
The term neurodivergent is a nonmedical term developed by Judy Singer, an Australian sociologist in 1998. Her aim was to indicate that differences need not be viewed as disorders, but with awareness of different strengths as well as unique struggles for people whose brains develop or work differently.
Some examples of neurodiversity include Autism Spectrum Disorder, or ASD, Attention -Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD, Sensory Processing Disorders and Dyslexia.
Many human traits such as height, intelligence, introversion-extroversion, and so on, exist on a spectrum. No person’s brain is the same as another’s, and what may be considered typical can vary. The fact is that life can be challenging for all of us, and it is best to approach every client respectfully and compassionately as a unique individual with struggles and strengths.
How can Psychology help?
Neurodivergent individuals often face challenges in a world of neurotypical people. These may include sensory overload such as from bright lights or loud sounds, communication differences, difficulties with executive functioning like planning and time management, as well as emotional difficulties such anxiety, depression, social isolation, emotional regulation and the exhaustion of 'masking' their authentic selves to fit in.
Regular environments like schools, workplaces, or shopping centres can be overwhelming and it can be difficult to fit in when your way of experiencing the world is not typical. This can lead to stress, overwhelm, underperformance and social issues.
Research has shown that anxiety and depression are the most common comorbid psychological challenges that neurodivergent people face, followed by social difficulties, eating disorders, suicidality, sleep disorders, and overwhelm.
Psychologists can help by sensitively supporting and helping those with anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationships, and other concerns. Every person is unique, and therapy should always be tailored to a person’s needs, circumstances and challenges. Even with the same diagnosis, there are no cookie-cutter approaches in therapy. Every individual should be treated with non-judgemental acceptance and respect for their unique dignity.
Effective therapies for neurodiversity include Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapy approaches like Schema Therapy, which are tailored to the individual's needs to improve executive function, emotional regulation, and social-emotional skills. Furthermore strength-based approaches have been shown to reduce depression and anxiety and promote wellbeing.
Key Therapeutic Practices Include:
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A Strength-Based Focus: Therapy that aims to help clients identify and leverage their inherent strengths and unique capabilities, whilst managing difficulties.
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Individualised Approach: Therapeutic goals and strategies are tailored to every client's specific needs, processing styles, special interests and real-life challenges.
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Sensory Accommodations: Adjusting lighting, reducing noise, and allowing the use of sensory tools can create a more comfortable therapeutic environment for clients with sensory sensitivities.
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Empowerment and Self-Advocacy: Therapy helps clients to develop and embrace a positive self-identity, as well as how to speak up for themselves to help them thrive in various environments.
The world is made up of a diversity of human expressions. By celebrating our unique brain styles and way of being in the world, the world becomes richer and allows everyone to thrive in their own way. Psychological therapy is there to support and assist us to cope with life stressors and difficulties, improve personal well-being, enrich our relationships, and feel more content in our place in the world.
Adelaide Psychologists & Therapists | Neurodiversity therapy
Get in touch with us
Practitioners with a special interest in Neurodiversity at Kensington Psychology are:
Lara Kruger, Nur Aydin, Maeve Steinert
We offer a comprehensive range of services for your heart and mind to get you back on the path to health and well-being.
If you’re ready to reach out to the Kensington Psychology & Well-Being team please get in touch by calling us on 08 7006 5225 or via our Online Contact Form.