Neurodivergent, Neurospicy, and Navigating Therapy: What You Need to Know
Embracing Neurodiversity in Therapy
We all interact with and experience the world around us in different ways.
The term “neurodiversity” acknowledges this natural variance in how our brains function and process information. It embraces the concept that all neurological differences, such as autism or ADHD, are not disorders but rather part of the normal spectrum of human cognitive abilities.
Essentially, neurodivergence means there is no “right” way of thinking, learning, and behaving.
Being neurodivergent means having a brain that works differently than that of a “neurotypical” person. People who are neurodivergent may also use the term “neurospicy” as a colloquial, empowering descriptor.
Individuals who are neurodivergent have different struggles but unique strengths. It is important for neurodivergent folx to find a therapist that acknowledges and celebrates the unique ways their brains work. Neurodivergent-affirmative counseling and neurodivergent therapy can offer inclusive mental health support to individuals with who are neurodiverse, empowering them to embrace their differences.
Understanding Neurodivergence and 'Neurospicy'
Neurodivergence encompasses neurological differences like autism, ADHD, and dyslexia. It embraces the many diverse neurological perspectives, viewing these conditions as part of the normal spectrum of how our brains can work rather than a disorder.
You may have heard or read the word “neurospicy” before. But what does that mean?
Neurospicy is a newly-coined term used by individuals who have been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, or dyslexia to describe their neurodivergence. The descriptor is used to differentiate between “neurotypical” and neurodivergent folx, emphasizing the positive aspects of having a brain that functions differently than neurotypical individuals. Think of it this way: When it comes to food, spicy means a dish has more flavor or a unique taste. Neurospicy folx view their differences as “spicy,” adding more flavor to their life.
Some people who are neurodivergent find “neurospicy” to be affirming, a celebration of their uniqueness. For these individuals, it’s more than a term – it’s a shift in perspective that embraces the complexity of neurodivergent experiences. In this way, folx who describe themselves as neurospicy believe the term helps to foster community among neurodivergent populations. While not all neurodivergent folx choose to use this term, its use nevertheless advocates for a more inclusive environment.
Embracing diverse neurological perspectives and the abilities and talents of neurospicy individuals reflects a more positive attitude towards these conditions, reframing the narrative surrounding autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other neurological differences.
The Importance of Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapy
Neurodiversity-affirming therapy likewise focuses on acceptance and empowerment rather than “normalization.”
Neurodivergent-friendly therapists approach neurodivergence as a natural variation in human cognition. They recognize the unique strengths of individuals with autism, ADHD, and dyslexia, rather than viewing these conditions as a problem that needs to be “fixed”.
Neurodivergent-affirming therapy represents an approach to treatment that’s cognizant of this view on neurodivergence. These therapists seek to validate the lived experiences of neurodivergent folx, creating a safe, inclusive space for them to express themselves. The therapy is tailored to the individual and challenges the concept of “ableism” - prejudice against people with disabilities - to empower folx to advocate for their needs and rights.
The benefits of inclusive counseling are plentiful. With neurodivergent-affirmative therapy, individuals express they feel increased confidence and improved mental health and have developed greater coping skills and resilience. They feel they are realizing their full potential.
Navigating Therapy: What to Expect
Therapy offers you a space to express yourself authentically.
Before initiating therapy or beginning the counseling process, individuals must first find the right therapist. As mentioned above, neurodivergent or neurospicy folx should consider finding a neurodivergent-affirming therapist.
Therapy begins with an initial consultation with a therapist. Typically, the first session involves a discussion with a therapist about what you would like to accomplish and goal setting. You should communicate your needs and preferences – therapists want to know how to individualize your session to best create a space for you to express your authentic self.
Being neurodivergent means you experience the world in a different way than neurotypical folks, so ongoing sessions follow a different path than traditional therapy. Neurodivergent-affirming therapy doesn’t seek to “fix” any problems; rather, therapists focus on understanding and celebrating your unique strengths and experiences. The goal of neurodivergent-affirming therapy is to empower you to navigate life as your authentic self and build resilience.
Some potential therapeutic approaches that align with neurodivergent thinking include narrative therapy or cognitive-behavioral techniques adapted for neurodiverse clients. Narrative therapy aims to help you refocus your narrative surrounding your neurological difference. You have a unique way you interact with the world and with that comes your own strengths. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques can help you to identify unhelpful thoughts and behaviors that are impacting your mental and well-being and adapt and practice behaviors that focus on your strengths.
Finding the Right Therapist in Oregon and Washington
Finding the right therapist for you is key. An LGBTQIA+ individual may seek a therapist specializing in sexuality or gender. A couple wanting to improve their communication may contact a therapist specializing in marriages or relationships. You should seek a therapist whose expertise lies in neurodiversity-affirming therapy because these therapists have the experience and approach that could best help you navigate your own experiences.
Finding a therapist near you who specializes in neurodivergence can help you best accomplish your goals, since these therapists are aware of the unique factors you may face. The best way to begin your search for neurodiversity-affirming therapy is to search on Google “neurodivergent therapists in Oregon” or “neurodiversity-affirming counselors in Washington”. Or consider additional search terms that highlight other unique aspects of your identity, such as “LGBTQIA+” or “BIPOC” neurodivergent therapy.
When you identify potential therapists, you should consider factors such as their experience, their approach, and personal comfort. Therapists will list their speciality areas on their website, along with their experience and approach to therapy. A neurodivergent-affirming therapist may say they specialize in narrative therapy or cognitive-behavior therapy, which are techniques that often best help neurodivergent folx empower themselves. Therapists may also have experience in helping neurodivergent individuals navigate sex or burnout.
Therapists want you to feel comfortable and open to express your authentic self. It’s OK if the first therapist you meet doesn’t seem like the best fit for you. Let your therapist know and they may even be able to recommend a colleague or another therapist in your area.
Self-Advocacy and Empowerment in Therapy
When meeting with a therapist, you should always feel comfortable advocating for yourself. The therapeutic relationship is most effective when you share with your therapist your unique needs, preferences, and goals. We interact with and process the world in different ways. We all want to accomplish different things in our lives. Your therapist wants to help you identify and foster the skills you can practice to reach these goals.
Therapy provides you with a space to be authentically yourself, without judgment. Neurodivergent-affirming therapy offers personalized mental health support, catered to your experience. This form of therapy is based on empowering neurodivergent clients to navigate a neurotypical-centric world confidently. Therapists seek to identify how your unique strengths can be used to reach your full potential.
Additional Support and Community Resources
You can continue to advocate for and empower yourself outside of therapy. Building community by connecting with other neurodivergent individuals who share a similar experience can encourage you to embrace what makes you neurospicy.
There are many neurodivergent support groups in Oregon and neurodiversity communities in Washington, as well as online resources for neurodivergent folx, that you can check out.
Psychology Today offers a list of support groups for all ages, including game nights.
The Autism Society of Oregon holds regional support groups, both in-person and online.
The Association for Autism and Neurodiversity has support groups and offers discussion forums for folx.
The Washington Autism Alliance offers a variety of events focused on the many experiences faced by individuals who are neurodivergent.
The Autism Society of Washington has an online chapter, providing folx with a Discord room to connect and chat.
There are more options out there. Your therapist may even be able to suggest other support groups or events for neurodivergent folx in your area.
Embracing Your Neurospicy Journey
Neurodiversity-affirming therapy is an approach that views neurological differences not as a problem that needs to be fixed. Instead, it allows neurodiverse individuals to embrace what makes them unique to live a more fulfilling life.
Everyone’s brain operates in a different way. Neurological differences are a part of the spectrum of human cognition, and neurospicy folx should celebrate the unique way they think and experience the world.
Even though we interact with the world in different ways, we all have our own struggles with mental health. Neurodivergent folx are not alone in their journey. Mental health support, such as neurodiversity-affirming therapy, is available for neurospicy individuals. Take pride in your differences, the “richness” of your unique neurological makeup, and never be afraid to contact a therapist to leverage your strengths and live life to the fullest.
