Neurodivergence: Surviving to Thriving

Different ways of thinking, learning, and feeling are not flaws,

they’re part of human diversity.

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Neurodivergence is an umbrella term that describes variations in how the brain processes, learns, and interacts with the world. These differences can bring challenges, but they also come with unique strengths. When understood and supported, neurodivergence can become a source of resilience, creativity, and innovation.

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ADHD

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that impacts focus, attention, and executive functioning. It may look like difficulty with organization, forgetfulness, restlessness, or impulsivity. But ADHD can also fuel creativity, quick problem-solving, and high energy when harnessed effectively.

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Autism

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Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) involves differences in communication, social interaction, and sensory processing. Autism may bring strengths in focus, memory, or pattern recognition, alongside challenges in social navigation or sensory overwhelm.

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How This Can Look Different in Women

ADHD and autism are often underdiagnosed in women, who may internalize symptoms and mask difficulties. Instead of hyperactivity or outward behavioral concerns, women may present with anxiety, depression, perfectionism, chronic overwhelm, or burnout. As a result, many women go years without the clarity that comes from an accurate diagnosis, often feeling as though they are “broken” or that something is fundamentally wrong with them.

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Research shows that underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed ADHD can have significant long-term impacts, including chronic stress, low self-esteem, emotional exhaustion, and repeated experiences of self-blame despite high effort and competence. Many women develop sophisticated coping strategies, such as overfunctioning, people-pleasing, or anxiety-driven productivity, that help them appear successful on the outside while expending tremendous internal energy just to keep up.

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My assessment approach is designed to account for these patterns. During ADHD evaluations, I ask targeted questions about masking, internalized symptoms, emotional regulation, hormonal influences, and the cumulative cost of long-term compensation. The goal is not just to identify symptoms, but to understand how attention and executive functioning challenges have shaped a person’s lived experience over time.

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While my therapy work focuses on nervous system regulation, self-understanding, and day-to-day support, my assessment process is structured, evaluative, and diagnostic. These services are intentionally distinct: therapy provides space for ongoing growth and healing, while testing is designed to offer clarity, answers, and documentation when diagnostic questions are central.

Together, this approach helps replace years of confusion and self-doubt with understanding, self-compassion, and a clearer path forward.

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Highly Sensitive People (HSPs)

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Being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) is a personality trait, not a disorder. HSPs tend to process sensory and emotional input more deeply, which can feel like both a gift and a challenge. Because some HSP traits overlap with ADHD or autism, a careful evaluation can help clarify whether sensitivity is part of a broader neurodivergent profile.

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Harnessing Neurodivergence as a Superpower

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Neurodivergence can feel overwhelming when unmanaged, but when understood, it often becomes a superpower. Therapy and assessment can help by:

 

• Clarifying whether ADHD, autism, or HSP traits are part of your experience

• Building tools for executive functioning, emotional regulation, and stress management

• Reducing shame and self-criticism tied to differences in how you think or feel

• Highlighting and harnessing your unique strengths: creativity, empathy, focus, innovation, or resilience

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What I Offer

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• Evaluations for ADHD (with referrals for more in-depth neuropsychological testing to trusted providers when needed)

• Neurodivergent-affirming therapy focused on improving executive functioning skills, building acceptance, and self-compassion for the way your brain works

• Addressing co-occurring concerns such as anxiety, depression, or burnout that often arise from living without proper recognition or support

• Psychoeducation about neurodivergence and how it affects you

• A deep dive into your specific challenges and strengths, creating a clear and personalized path forward

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Next Step

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If you suspect you may be neurodivergent, or if you’re ready to better understand and work with your brain, reach out to schedule a consult. Together, we can uncover clarity, build effective strategies, and help you thrive.