Is there a place for neurodivergence?
You’re not alone. Many neurodivergent people – people whose brains work differently than what is considered ‘typical’ - report feeling like “outsiders” or “all alone.” People who are neurodivergent or autistic sometimes need support when it comes to navigating daily life and social situations in a world that can feel overstimulating and overwhelming.
At The Retreat – a private pay, residential mental health program for adults – our team of multidisciplinary clinicians have years of expertise in partnering with neurodivergent and autistic people, helping them develop the tools and skills they need to thrive.
Here, you’ll find a safe environment to learn more about how neurodivergence may impact your life. Recognizing and building on a person's strengths as well as having a clear understanding of potential vulnerabilities are the foundation of our approach. The team at The Retreat will help you learn skills to realize your goals as well as provide support while you practice them. Overcome your anxiety and feel more connected to the world around you with the support of the team at The Retreat.
What is neurodivergence?
Neurodivergence is a term used to describe people whose brains process information differently than other, “neurotypical,” people. Neurodivergent individuals can include people with neurodevelopmental mental health conditions like autism spectrum disorder and/or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), as well as learning differences and sensory issues.
No two people who are neurodivergent look the same. For some, social situations might be difficult due to overwhelming sensory input (lights, sounds, conversations, smells). For others, concentrating at work might be difficult – or conversely, some may get so wrapped up in their work that they forget to take breaks for lunch or meetings.
Being neurodivergent isn’t a bad thing – but you might need therapy, coaching, and/or medication to most effectively navigate the world in which you live.
Care for neurodivergence at The Retreat by Sheppard Pratt includes:
Comprehensive diagnostic evaluation
Get to the root of your challenges and determine a comprehensive, effective path forward.
Personalized treatment plan
Our team partners with each resident individually to develop a holistic care plan.
Weekly classes on neurodivergence
Through multiple weekly classes, you will learn what neurodivergence is, build the skills you need to navigate sensory sensitivities, and practice your skills in a safe, welcoming environment.
Medication management
Our team of psychiatrists will partner with you to determine the right medications to fit your needs.
Frequent therapy
All residents at The Retreat meet with their individual therapist multiple times per week.
A breadth of weekly therapeutic groups
In addition to individual therapy, The Retreat offers up to 35 hours of group programming each week.
Are you neurodivergent? Why choose The Retreat?
The Retreat by Sheppard Pratt is a safe haven. With just 22 suites, you have your own bedroom and bathroom – spaces just for you – and a small community of residents. Clinicians and team members are available 24/7, so support is always close by.
As part of Sheppard Pratt, an organization renowned worldwide for its mental health and social services, residents can also easily access specialty consultation for issues related to OCD, trauma, eating disorders, mood disorders, and neurological disorders.
In addition to the neurodivergent-specific programming, residents also participate in The Retreat’s programming for overall improved mental health, including:
- Individual therapy
- Medication management, as needed
- Yoga, art therapy, and other forms of recreational therapy
What sets The Retreat apart from other residential treatment options is that we do not implement a cookie-cutter approach to treatment. Our aim is to respect the unique qualities of every resident and treat the whole person. Treatment is about more than reducing symptoms, but about achieving a healthier, more joyful life that is sustainable in the long term.
Meet our core team of clinicians specializing in neurodivergence and autism spectrum disorders
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Michael J. Murray, MD
Medical Director, Autism and Developmental DisabilitiesSpecialties:Autism Spectrum Disorder, Developmental Disabilities, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry -
Tom Flis, MS, BCBA, LBA, LCPC
Clinical Director, The Center for Autism; Behavioral Services ManagerSpecialties:Applied Behavior Analysis, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Intellectual Disabilities, Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Psychotherapy -
Sara Uram, LCSW-C
Social WorkerSpecialties:Autism Spectrum Disorder, Neurodevelopmental Disorders
"I’m grateful to the team at The Retreat. They helped me develop skills to navigate work and family while still feeling like ‘me.’”