Neurodivergent-Affirming Counselling

To me, being neurodivergent-affirming means recognizing neurodiversity as essential to human community and flourishing—just like ecological diversity is vital to the health of our planet. Different ways of processing, thinking, feeling, learning, and communicating are not deficits to be fixed, but strengths and perspectives that enrich our world.

 

My approach is grounded in meeting people exactly where they are, with empathy, curiosity, and respect. I focus on strengths, and choose to use strengths-based language rather than language that pathologizes and highlights deficits. I honor each individual’s, couple’s, or family’s unique needs and ways of being. Together, we explore strategies and build systems that work with who you are that help you thrive.

 

I also hold awareness of the deep and lasting impact of living in a society built around neurotypical norms and expectations. Many neurodivergent folks have had to adapt in ways that come at the cost of authenticity, safety, and belonging—leading to experiences of masking, burnout, anxiety, depression, and shame. A core part of my work is supporting the process of unlearning those survival strategies and moving toward authenticity, restoration, and wellbeing.