Neurodiversity

In my work with the Redpath Centre and in my own practice, I am currently seeing neurodiverse adults, couples or offering consultation to families. Neurodiversity refers to diagnoses such as Autism Spectrum Disorder(ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and brain injury. When a family member is neurodiverse, it can affect the whole family. My approach includes family therapy to work through the impact on each family member.

Neurodiverse adults benefit significantly from counselling to navigate the “neurotypical” world. Seeing the world differently can create a higher risk for depression due to high anxiety, depression, social disconnection, and sense of not belonging.  My main focus is on helping each client deeply appreciate their unique abilities and challenges, and build a strongly positive identity as a ND person. I encourage an attitude of befriending and loving ourselves.  This work includes expanding social contacts through shared interests and learning from positive ND communities.

My therapeutic approach includes the Values Based Integration Process, designed by Heather Morgan and highlighted in Dr. Devon Price’s enormously successful book Unmasking Autism. This beautiful process focuses on the moments of our lives which make us feel Fully Alive. We then identify and define our values and enter into dialogue with our negative messages about ourselves.

In my work with families, I offer post-diagnostic education and support.  Since neurodiversity shows up differently in each person, family members benefit from solid education about what the diagnosis means for their family member and how it affects behaviour, emotional regulation, learning, work life and friendships.

My services also include counselling with neurodiverse couples to help partners understand neurodiversity, express their feelings and differences, learn techniques for connection and managing reactivity, enhance listening and validation, develop a Relationship Schedule™, and improve parenting. My work with ND couples draws from the work of AANE and The ND Partners Insitute as well as the Developmental Model.

Through all of these steps in my work with neurodiverse families, adults and couples, my fundamental goal is to enhance unique strengths, make healthy social connections, construct a niche, and make positive contributions in family, community and the workplace.

In association with Karen T Kemp & Associates Psychological Services, assessment for ASD/ADHD is available for school-age children, teens and adults.