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A Guide For Neurodivergence Support Options

3D image of brain with purple background
December 04, 2024

I suspect I might be neurodivergent (Autism, ADHD, both). What now?

If you suspect that you might have Autism, ADHD or both (as an adult), you have several pathways to finding neurodiversity-affirming counselling support, each with its own set of pros and cons. 

Many start their journey of self-discovery by researching online resources, reading books, watching videos and taking some self-screening questionnaires. These can give you general sense of whether you may resonate with certain neurodivergent traits. While these are not “official” diagnostic tools, they can help you decide if a formal assessment may be warranted. Your psychologist may also use some of these with you in the initial “screening” process.

What are the different options available to support me?

It’s helpful to understand that there are several perspectives and theories on neurodivergence, each offering unique insights and, most importantly, implications for support. 

The medical model of understanding views neurodivergence primarily as a set of symptoms to diagnose and (if needed) treat. Viewing neurodivergence through this lens often emphasises clinical assessment, structured diagnoses, and, in some cases, medication to manage specific traits. Professionals like psychiatrists typically operate within this model, focusing on identifying traits that may impact daily functioning and prescribing interventions like medication. 

Neurodiversity Affirming (NDA) Psychologists, while also grounded in empirical evidence and science, may provide you with more in-depth assessments to understand how specific traits impact various areas of your life, often focusing on your strengths as well as finding ways to manage the challenges.

In contrast, to the medical model, the social justice or NDA model views neurodivergence as a natural variation in human experience, valuing the unique perspectives and strengths that come with different ways of thinking – different does not mean defective. 

This view sees neurodivergence as a different neurotype rather than as a “disorder”. This model also shifts the focus from “fixing” or “treating” to creating inclusive environments that support all neurotypes. Therapists and psychologists working in the counselling field (especially those trained in neurodiversity-affirming practices) may take this approach, emphasising self-acceptance and self-compassion as well as skills for managing environments, and strategies for working with your natural tendencies rather than against them. This can be a very supportive path if you’re looking to embrace your neurodivergent identity with or without a formal diagnosis or medication. 

How do I decide who to see?

The choice of professional can impact the approach taken.

Psychiatrists tend to align more closely with the medical model, focusing on diagnostics and symptom management through medication, which can be beneficial if you’re looking for a structured intervention.

Psychologists may integrate both models, offering formal diagnosis while also exploring your strengths and personalised coping strategies.

Ideally, you would want to find someone who practices from a neurodiversity-affirming perspective who validates your diagnosis and any medical interventions you choose to receive and can also provides you with support by developing practical strategies that fit into your lifestyle.

What are the pros and cons of each option?

Psychiatrists, as medical doctors, can diagnose and prescribe medication, which can be beneficial if medication is part of your plan. However, this can also sometimes feel pathologising for some individuals. Their assessment reports may sometimes be less detailed than those of psychologists.

Seeing a professional who views neurodivergence through the lens of the NDA or social justice model promotes self-acceptance and community, though it may not always provide access to formal supports or accommodations tied to an official diagnosis.

In the case of Autism, self-identification is considered valid, however, some individuals prefer to seek a formal diagnosis for further clarity and self-understanding. A formal diagnosis may also be needed in the case of seeking supports and accomodations for work/study.

Costs for formal diagnostic assessments can also vary widely, typically ranging from $1500 to $2,500 depending on your location. 

Whether you pursue a psychologist, psychiatrist, or neurodivergent-affirming therapist (of any kind), the best choice is the one that aligns with your values, goals, and comfort level. Therefore, there is no single “right” path, only the one that feels most authentic and supportive for you and your needs.

Diagnosis aside, what about counselling options?

Once you have either self-identified or sought a formal diagnosis, your next steps would be to seek neurodiversity-affirming counselling support. At Wattletree Psychology we offer many neurodiversity-affirming counselling support options and will work collaboratively with you to tailor a therapy plan to suit your needs.

Seeking counselling for neurodiversity can help you in a number of ways:

  • Provides a safe space explore your personal experiences
  • Develop strategies to cope with every day struggles
  • Learn strategies for self-advocacy
  • Gain insights into yourself and how your neurodivergent traits influence your thoughts, feelings and behaviours
  • Fostering self-acceptance and reducing shame
  • Skill-building
  • Coping mechanisms for managing sensory sensitivities
  • Support for navigating social situations
  • Managing anxiety or stress
  • Skills for managing time and staying organised
  • Enhancing executive functioning skills (planning, remembering, organising)
  • Address co-occuring mental health issues like anxiety, depression, trauma
  • Learning relaxation techniques and/or yoga.
  • Learning ways to safely “unmask”, overcome societal challenges and embrace your neurodivergent identity so you can feel more comfortable being yourself.

What evidence-based counselling interventions are helpful?

We can utilise a number of different evidence-based counselling interventions to support you with your goals, including but not limited to: including but not limited to Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavour Therapy (DBT), EMDR, Schema Therapy, Mindful Self-Compassion, Mindfulness (including Mindfulness Meditation), Relaxation Training, Narrative Therapy, Creative therapies, Internal Family Systems (IFS). All of these therapeutic modalities would be suitable for supporting neurodivergent clients, however, as with anything else there is no one-size-fits all.

 

If you are interested in learning more or booking in, please submit an enquiry here.


Kerry Athanasiadis is a psychologist and group facilitator. She works independently in private practice and has a special interest in working with young people.