Neurodiversity Affirming Therapy: Understanding and Supporting Neurospicy Brains

If you’ve been hearing the term neurodiversity affirming therapy and are curious what it means, or if you’re wondering whether it might be helpful for you, this blog will walk you through the essentials. I’ll also share how I support clients through neurodiversity affirming therapy in Los Angeles, including virtual neurodiversity affirming therapy across California and Florida.

1. What is neurodivergence in simple terms?

Neurodivergence means your brain works differently than what society considers “neurotypical.” Imagine this: neurotypical people are born with an invisible rulebook for how to navigate life more seamlessly. Neurodivergent people, on the other hand, are born with a blank rulebook. They spend their lives closely observing others and piecing together how they’re “supposed to” function, often feeling different or out of place along the way.

Neurodivergence is very common, and more people are discovering that their unique brain wiring is not something to be ashamed of, but something to be understood and celebrated.

2. What does neurodiversity mean?

Neurodiversity is a way of looking at brains through a strength-based lens. It acknowledges that each brain functions in its own beautiful, individualized way. Neurodiverse brains are often the ones questioning societal rules, challenging the status quo, and creating new ways of seeing the world. While society is often not built for these differences, neurodiversity gives individuals the opportunity to create their own rules for how they want to live.

3. Which diagnoses fall under neurodivergence?

Neurodivergence isn’t limited to just autism or ADHD, though those are the most commonly known. It can include many diagnoses and conditions, such as:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder

• ADHD

• Down Syndrome

• Tourette’s

• Highly Sensitive Persons (HSP)

• PTSD

• Bipolar Disorder

• Anxiety

• Depression

In short, any brain that struggles to seamlessly work with how society is set up can be considered neurodivergent. 2

4. How do you know if you’re neurodivergent?

Everyone’s experience is unique, but here are some signs. Note this is not a diagnosis but just something that can give a little flag to know whether it might be good to look into it further:

• Deeply feeling your own emotions and absorbing others’ emotions like a sponge.

• Always feeling “different” than other people.

• Having a special interest or passion you can focus on endlessly.

• Struggling to thrive in traditional classroom or structured settings.

• Strong sensory preferences (sound, food texture, clothing, lighting) that can feel overwhelming if unmet.

• Feeling tired instead of energized after drinking coffee.

5. What types of support are available for neurodiversity affirming work?

First and foremost, remember: there’s nothing wrong with you. Having a brain that works differently doesn’t need “fixing.” But if you want clarity or support, you have options:

• Therapy: Work with a neurodiversity affirming therapist who can help you understand your brain, lean into your strengths, and create tools to support the challenges. A formal diagnosis isn’t required to start therapy, as often diagnoses may be inaccessible due to cost, or may even miss diagnosing certain populations. You will be exploring how your brain works, identifying what environments and coping strategies best fit you, unlearning harmful societal messages about being “different,” and creating a lifestyle that feels aligned.

• Assessment: If accessible and desired, a psychologist can formally assess and diagnose specific neurodivergences, like ADHD or autism.

• Medication: A psychiatrist can explore whether medication may be helpful for your functioning. It’s not necessary for everyone, but it can be a supportive option for some. Depending on your diagnosis, different medications may be helpful. For example, ADHD medications can support focus and motivation, while those with autism may benefit from panic-reducing medications. This is always a trial-and-error process with a psychiatrist.

Why Neurodiversity Affirming Therapy Matters

Traditional approaches to therapy sometimes aim to make people “fit in” to neurotypical standards. Neurodiversity affirming therapy flips this script. Instead of asking, “How can you change to fit the world?” we ask, “How can we adjust the world and your supports to fit you?”

If you’re looking for virtual neurodiversity affirming virtual therapy in California or Florida, know that support is available. You deserve a space where your brain is understood, celebrated, and supported—not shamed.

If this resonates with you, therapy can be a powerful tool to help you embrace your unique brain, lean into your strengths, and build a life that works for you. Reach out for a free consultation today!