Neurodiversity

Understanding Neurodiversity

Neurodiversity refers to the neurological differences that are natural variations of the human brain. Some common conditions that fall under neurodiversity include:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
• Dyslexia
• Tourette Syndrome
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Fetal Acohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)

At Insight Psychological, we don’t think of these conditions as disorders but as variations of the mind that is a source of both strengths and obstacles for neurodivergent individuals.

What Kind of Therapy is Best for Someone Who is Neurodivergent?

The best type of therapy for someone who is neurodivergent often depends on their individual needs and preferences. We offer neurodiversity-affirming therapy that focuses on:

• Strength-Based Approaches – Emphasizes recognizing and building on an individual’s existing strengths rather than focusing solely on challenges. It fosters a sense of empowerment, self-efficacy, and resilience, encouraging individuals to use their unique abilities as tools for growth and healing.
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) – Promotes acceptance of thoughts and feelings rather than fighting against them, which encourages psychological flexibility.
• Cognitive Therapy (CBT) – Effective in helping individuals manage anxiety, depression, and other emotional obstacles by rewiring negative thought patterns and behaviors.
• Social Skills Training – If desired, this optional therapy can help individuals develop effective communication and social interaction skills. It can be especially beneficial for those with ASD or ADHD, but it’s not required. Instead, it’s simply available for those who wish to explore it.
• Mindfulness-Based Therapies – Strategies that can help manage stress and improve emotional regulation.
• Dialectical Therapy (DBT) – Emphasizes building skills to manage stress, emotional response and regulation, mental health issues, and the psychological and social aspects of relationship building.
• Internal Family Systems (IFS) – Helps to address multiple sub-personalities within a person’s mental system to heal wounded parts and painful emotions.
• Narrative Therapy – Helps people separate themselves from their problems, believing that the person isn’t the problem; the problem is the problem.

How Do I Get Tested for Neurodiversity?

Testing for neurodiversity requires a thorough assessment by a psychologist or a specialist trained in diagnosing neurodevelopmental conditions using the following procedures:

• Clinical interviews to understand your developmental history and current functioning and aptitudes
• Standardized tests and questionnaires to assess cognitive, emotional, and behavioural aspects
• Observations in different settings, such as home, school, or work, and input from family members, teachers, or employers

Our team at Insight Psychological can guide you through the testing process and connect you with the appropriate resources and professionals.

Our Spaces

At Insight, our therapists and therapy environment are neurodivergent affirming. All of our therapy spaces are designed to be sensory-friendly. This includes addressing sensory sensitivities through controlled noise levels, lighting, and access to sensory supports like weighted blankets or fidget tools.

We provide sensory soothers, including items like fidgets, grounding elements such as smooth rocks or incense, and weighted lap pads or stuffies. These sensory tools are always visible, reflecting our commitment to sensory regulation and supporting unmasking for those who need them.