What does it mean to be neurodivergent?
To be neurodivergent means that your brain functions in ways that diverge from what society typically considers “standard” or neurotypical.
Lucy Fuller 9th June 2025
Being divergent is not a diagnosis, but rather a descriptive term that embraces the natural variation in how people think, learn, feel, and interact with the world.
Neurodivergent individuals may have cognitive profiles shaped by conditions like:
Autism Spectrum Disorder
ADHD
Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Dyscalculia
Tourette Syndrome
These differences can affect:
Sensory processing (Eg. heightened sensitivity to sound or texture)
Executive functioning (Eg. planning, attention, impulse control)
Social communication
Emotional Regulation
Learning styles
Information Processing
Strengths can include:
Creative problem-solving,
Hyperfocus and deep interest in topics,
Unique pattern recognition or memory,
Empathy and emotional insight.
Common Challenges can include:
Difficulty with traditional learning methods,
Sensory overwhelm in busy environments,
Struggles with time management or organization,
Social fatigue or miscommunication
Neurodivergent traits aren’t inherently good or bad—they’re simply different. The challenges often arise not from the traits themselves, but from environments that aren’t designed to accommodate them.
Why the Term Neurodivergent Matters
Affirms identity: Many people find empowerment in identifying as neurodivergent—it reframes their experiences as valid, not defective.
Promotes inclusion: It encourages schools, workplaces, and healthcare systems to adapt and support diverse cognitive needs.
Challenges stigma: Moves away from deficit-based models and toward a strengths-based, affirming approach.
Psychotherapy can be profoundly supportive for neurodivergent individuals—especially when it's tailored to affirm their unique ways of thinking, feeling, and relating to the world.
Self-understanding: Builds insight into one’s neurodivergence, reducing confusion and self-blame
Emotional Regulation: Offers tools to manage overwhelm, anxiety, and sensory overload
Reducing Masking: Encourages authenticity and reduces the exhaustion of trying to "fit in"
Relationship support: Improves communication, boundary-setting, and connection with others
Self-esteem and identity: Fosters self-acceptance and pride in neurodivergent traits
Executive functioning support: Helps with planning, organization, and time management (especially for ADHD)
Sensory needs advocacy: Validates sensory sensitivities and supports environmental accommodations