YAW therapy
ADHD & ASD Neurodiversity Counselling
Terminology
What is neurodiversity?
Some people’s brains simply work in a different way.
For at least 20% of the UK’s adult population, these differences mean they are not seen as ‘neurotypical’ and may be diagnosed as autistic, dyslexic, dyspraxic or having ADHD.
Neurodiversity is the concept that brain differences are natural variations not deficits, disorders or impairments.
What does neurodivergent mean?
Neurodivergent was coined by the neurodiversity movement as an opposite to neurotypical.
The terms neurodivergent and neurodivergence are now used to describe all people whose neurological differences mean they do not consider themselves to be neurotypical.
Who is neurotypical?
Neurotypical is used to describe people whose brain functions, ways of processing information and behaviours are seen to be typical.
The label is used by neurodivergent people and the neurodiversity community to refer to anyone who does not have a neurological difference.
Who is considered neurodiverse?
While some individuals do refer to themselves as neurodiverse, the term neurodiversity is most commonly now used to refer to a group which encompasses the full spectrum of brain differences and is made up of both neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals.
Are you?
Newly diagnosed
adult
Have you received your diagnosis and need help navigating or reflecting on your diagnosis
Parent/Carer of a neurodivergent child
Are you caring for a neurodivergent child and need support from someone who understands
Undiagnosed
adult
There continues to be a great number of people who remain undiagnosed due to waitlist and the lack of resources. Some may chose to remain undiagnosed
Partner to someone neurodivergent
Are you experiencing issues in your relationship and unsure how to support your neurodivergent partner.
How can counselling help?
For a Newly Diagnosed Adult: A new diagnosis can bring a mix of relief, confusion, and uncertainty. Counselling offers a space to process these emotions and reflect on what the diagnosis means for one's identity and future. It helps individuals understand the impact of neurodivergence on their experiences, relationships, and self-image. By exploring past struggles and feelings of difference, counselling can foster self-compassion, help develop coping strategies, and support the development of a more positive self-concept. It also assists in creating a path forward, where individuals can better navigate the challenges of daily life with a greater sense of understanding and acceptance.
For the Parent of a Neurodivergent Child: Parents of neurodivergent children often face the emotional strain of adjusting to the child's needs and advocating for the right resources and support. Counselling provides a supportive space for parents to express their feelings of frustration, worry, or even guilt, helping them process their emotions in a healthy way. It also helps them develop strategies for understanding their child’s unique needs, managing their own stress, and improving communication within the family. Counsellors can guide parents in cultivating patience, resilience, and fostering an environment that promotes the child’s growth while maintaining the parent's well-being.
For the Partner of a Neurodivergent Individual: Living with or supporting a neurodivergent partner can present challenges in communication, emotional connection, and shared understanding. Counselling can offer a space for partners to explore their own feelings, improve communication strategies, and strengthen their relationship. It provides tools for navigating misunderstandings and fostering empathy, helping both partners feel supported in their individual and shared needs. For the partner who may be unfamiliar with neurodivergence, counselling helps to increase awareness and understanding of how neurodivergence shapes behavior, communication, and emotions. This understanding can lead to deeper mutual respect, more effective conflict resolution, and healthier emotional connections.