Autism & ADHD Therapy (Neurodiversity)

The Difference Between “Neurotypical” And “Neurodivergent” 

When it comes to cognitive disabilities, the world is split into two categories: neurotypical and neurodivergent.

• Neurotypical refers to the “average” population against which we create standards and metrics for psychological development. Though this population can struggle with mental health challenges—such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress—there is no diagnosis of a cognitive or learning disability.

• Neurodivergent, on the other hand, refers to a variation in cognitive functioning. These individuals are often on the autism spectrum or have ADHD, a learning disability (such as dyslexia), or other developmental setbacks.

Unfortunately, our surroundings are created according to neurotypical standards, causing neurodivergent individuals to often feel like a round peg being forced into a square hole. Daily tasks and interactions that seem simple, straightforward, or nonthreatening to a neurotypical individual can be extremely challenging to someone who is neurodivergent. Someone with ASD for example may find making eye contact very stressful.

Over time, our culture has come to value stillness and focus over movement. 

This goes against practically every intuition of our nomadic ancestors, who were constantly on the move for survival. 

These ancestors’ children learned through play and informal instruction, but education became more formalized and pedagogic (instructional) over time.

A neurotypical education veered toward focus, while the neurodivergent population continued learning by seeking novelty. 

Eventually, the classroom environment became a place where the neurotypical student could thrive.

However, a student with ADHD, for instance, would not be as encouraged to build on their strengths of activity, innovation, and enthusiasm. 

This demonstrates that when an individual’s talents and strengths are both understood and maximized, they can be more successful and better adjusted to their environments.

For this reason, a neurodivergent assessment, diagnosis and strengths-based treatment plan for autism or adhd are essential in helping children and adults alike to receive the support they need. 

Absolutely. If you are unsure about your or your child’s symptoms or behaviors, we can conduct an initial assessment to identify symptoms of autism or adhd and develop an initial treatment plan. 

For a more comprehensive assessment and diagnosis, we can also provide appropriate referrals for psychological testing. 

On the other hand, if your or your child’s symptoms are associated with depression, anxiety, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), or other psychological/behavioral issues, we can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment through therapy. 

We acknowledge that there has been a history of stigma attached to neurodivergence and that the world can be cruel to individuals who are labeled as different. 

However, we believe that a proper diagnosis and counseling for children with asd can ultimately open doors and create opportunities. 

By knowing how your or your child’s brain functions, you can have a better understanding of the supports, accommodations, and services needed to be successful.

And our therapists are trained, empathetic, and nonjudgmental clinicians who are committed to providing accurate and individualized treatment so that you can get the most out of life. 

Living with a diagnosis of autism, ADHD, learning disability, or other neurodivergent diagnosis can create feelings of grief and uncertainty, but it is possible to live a full life that harnesses your innate gifts and strengths. 

In therapy, you can learn specific skills that build upon your unique strengths and successes. Our therapists can help you set treatment goals and create plans for the future so that you can look ahead with a sense of optimism and empowerment. 

No. We do not provide applied behavioral analysis or ABA therapy. 

However, we do provide behavioral therapy that can help children and teens with autism. 

There are a variety of interventions for treating autism and adhd. 

A child with severe autism may be best suited for aba therapy intervention programs along with occupational therapy and speech therapy. 

Therapy for Children with Autism

Therapy for a child with autism is a multi-pronged approach: behavior intervention, parent support and skills, play therapy to learn social and emotional skills, and connect with others through the language of play, and family involvement. 

Autism therapies for older children, teens, and young adults. 

Many children and teens receive an autism diagnosis or adhd diagnosis once they are older. 

Types of treatments we offer for older children include cognitive behavioral therapy, skills training, behavioral coaching, and self-management training. 

We also offer the SSP protocol which can be helpful for sensory processing, auditory integration, and stress/anxiety reduction.