Neurodivergence

Neurodivergence Issues We Can Help You With… 

We recognize that each person has a different experience of neurodiversity; how it shows up in their lives and what it means to them.

Below are examples of some of the types of issues we can help you with:

• Burnout: persistent fatigue, difficulty managing daily tasks and employing skills, low mood, reduced tolerance to stimulating environments 

• Emotional Dysregulation: feelings of overwhelm or emotional distress, seemingly out of proportion to the situation (e.g. sensory overload, rejection sensitivity, intense changes in mood)   

• Executive Dysfunction: difficulty planning, organizing or initiating daily tasks, difficulty maintaining focus and completing tasks, forgetfulness  

Neurodivergence: How We Will Support You… 

We understand how difficult it can be to reach out for help if you are from a group that is often misunderstood.

Our therapists have been carefully selected to ensure they:  

• Provide Neurodiversity Affirming Care: We have therapists on staff with lived experience being neurodivergent and training in affirmative therapies. We understand that neurodivergence is an important aspect of identity that comes with its own set of challenges and joys; not something to be changed, filtered, or modified to fit social expectations.  

• Offer Flexible Practices: We recognize that every person is different in their needs to feel comfortable and heard in the therapy space. Our counsellors will respect your autonomy of choice and offer flexibility to best fit your needs and comfort (e.g. low or no direct eye contact, low stimulation environment, fidget/stim/sensory outlets made available and accessible, options for non-verbal communication and creative expression)  

• Respect your boundaries: Speak with your counsellor to establish expectations, wants and goals for your relationship. Reduce uncertainty and allow for self-determination within the therapy space and beyond. We look forward to following your lead, and helping you explore expressions of autonomy that are impactful for you.  

• Build Community Connections: While our counsellors do not conduct formal assessments or make diagnoses, we have years of experience working within the Guelph community and will be happy to connect you with resources that provide those services.  

We also understand that a formal diagnosis is not something that everyone may want or have access to. A formal diagnosis is not required to seek help for neurodivergent related issues or counselling. 

Neurodivergence: How Counselling Can Help You…  

As you begin to explore and understand your neurodivergent identity, you may feel a variety of emotions such as relief and joy; or feel ready to look at challenges from a new perspective. Whatever arises, our counsellors are prepared to both celebrate and help navigate that space with you.  

• Encourage authentic self-expression: Express yourself freely without fear of judgement. We look forward to being at your side as you figure out what your neurodivergent identity means to you and as you explore your outlets for self-expression and authenticity.  

• Reduce self-blame and practice self-compassion: Challenge internalized ableism and other negative thought patterns. We look forward to supporting you in building self-acceptance and exploring your strengths and interests.  

• Learn how to advocate for yourself and your needs: Whether it’s asking for accommodations, or setting boundaries in your personal life, we are here to support you in fostering positive connections within your social relationships and community; on your terms.