The road to diagnosis for neurodivergence normally isn't easy. It can take decades for people to be diagnosed (more often women than men). Being neurodivergent often brings shame and guilt for struggling to do things others can easily do (neurodivergent burnout is a real thing!), yet also having the ability to succeed in ways others can't. It's hard to explain and feel understood.
You or your child may be experiencing:
A diagnosis of ADHD (inattentive, hyperactive, or combined) or Autism Spectrum Disorder
Lack of a diagnosis, but feeling as though you feel the criteria
Consistent stress and anxiety
"Masking" - hiding activations and big feelings internally while presenting a stoic external mask to the world
Fatigue and exhaustion
Body tension, stomachaches, headaches/migraines, poor sleep, poor eating, or other physical manifestations of anxiety
Feeling like you have a motor in your brain and body, always on the go
Struggling to get started with tasks or completing tasks
Perfectionism
Strong sense of justice that can impact relationships
Struggles with transitions
Inability to tolerate frustration or distress
Shame, guilt, loneliness
What does therapy for neurodiversity look like?
Beginning to integrate that you are not "broken" and there is nothing "wrong" with you can be hard in the beginning. We value providing education and neurodivergent tools/resources to best support daily functioning. Sometimes this looks like identifying a better routine/ritual. Sometimes this can be new practical steps to take to alleviate anxiety and stress.
It can be hard to understand yourself, let alone the world around you. Therapy can help facilitate understanding, empowerment, normalization, and confidence in living in a neurotypical world.
Therapy can help you or your child:
Improve distress and frustration tolerance
Decrease anxiety, overwhelm, and stress responses
Practice regulation skills
Improve well-being and enjoyment
Decrease procrastination and avoidant behaviors
Improve confidence and empowerment in navigating stressors and social situations
Practice identifying emotions and understanding your feelings
Cope with life's demands and stressors
Identify and set boundaries based on what you need (instead of overcompensating)
There is no timeline for how long it takes to feel better and reduce distress. Sessions are typically 50-60 minutes, and we do offer extended sessions for deeper processing and based on need. We offer holistic mental health services in-person at our office in Plano and virtually across Texas.