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What does neurodivergent mean?
Neurodivergent is a broad term used to describe people whose brains process, learn, or respond to information in ways that differ from what is considered “typical.” Neurodivergence can include autism, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, Tourette syndrome, and other forms of neurological difference.
The term comes from the idea of neurodiversity, which recognizes that differences in brain function are a natural part of human variation. Rather than viewing neurodivergence only through the lens of neurological disorders, this perspective acknowledges that neurodivergent people may experience both strengths and challenges. For example, a person may be very creative and intelligent, while also needing support with sensory sensitivity or learning differences.
The term comes from the idea of neurodiversity, which recognizes that differences in brain function are a natural part of human variation. Rather than viewing neurodivergence only through the lens of neurological disorders, this perspective acknowledges that neurodivergent people may experience both strengths and challenges. For example, a person may be very creative and intelligent, while also needing support with sensory sensitivity or learning differences.
What issues do neurodivergent people commonly bring to therapy?
Neurodivergent people often seek therapy for many of the same reasons as anyone else, including anxiety, depression, stress, relationship concerns, or major life transitions. They may also want support with challenges specifically related to neurodivergence; for example, therapy may help with executive functioning, social communication, sensory sensitivity, school/learning stress, or the experience of feeling misunderstood in society.
Therapists can also help individuals and families diagnose conditions, as well as distinguish regular challenges associated with childhood and/or adolescence from more enduring conditions. When needed, a therapist may also provide referrals to additional specialists, such as occupational therapists or psychiatrists who can prescribe psychiatric medication.
Therapists can also help individuals and families diagnose conditions, as well as distinguish regular challenges associated with childhood and/or adolescence from more enduring conditions. When needed, a therapist may also provide referrals to additional specialists, such as occupational therapists or psychiatrists who can prescribe psychiatric medication.
What therapeutic approaches work well for neurodivergent clients?
Therapy for neurodivergent clients is often most helpful when it is flexible and affirming. Rather than expecting every client to fit one standard model of therapy, neurodivergent-affirming therapists may adapt sessions to each person’s needs and therapy goals. Often, this includes visual aids, movement breaks, or other therapy supports.
Common structured therapeutic approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can be useful for some neurodivergent clients, but the approach may need to be modified to avoid feeling overly rigid or focused on changing traits that are part of a person’s natural neurodivergence. Other approaches, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and mindfulness-based approaches, may also be helpful depending on the client’s needs.
Common structured therapeutic approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can be useful for some neurodivergent clients, but the approach may need to be modified to avoid feeling overly rigid or focused on changing traits that are part of a person’s natural neurodivergence. Other approaches, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and mindfulness-based approaches, may also be helpful depending on the client’s needs.
Who is included in [BRAND]'s directory of neurodivergent therapists?
Psychology Today’s directory of neurodivergent therapists includes professionals who self-identify as neurodivergent, as well as therapists who describe their work as neurodivergent-affirming or who specialize in areas such as ADHD, autism, learning differences, or sensory processing concerns.
When reviewing a therapist’s profile, look at their bio, listed specialties, treatment approach, and experience working with neurodivergent clients. You may also want to consider whether they offer supports that matter to you, such as online therapy, accessible office space, or familiarity with specific concerns like anxiety, depression, or trauma.
When reviewing a therapist’s profile, look at their bio, listed specialties, treatment approach, and experience working with neurodivergent clients. You may also want to consider whether they offer supports that matter to you, such as online therapy, accessible office space, or familiarity with specific concerns like anxiety, depression, or trauma.