No two brains are alike. That means we all perceive the world in different ways.
Neurodivergence is a term that’s used to describe people whose brains process information or perceive the world differently from the majority of other people. People whose brains process information “typically” are called “neurotypical” or “neuromajority.”
When we embrace neurodiversity and neurodivergence, we are embracing the natural variations in human traits. We also can advocate for accommodations for neurodivergent individuals in society – making sure they have what they need to process the information around them and participate in daily life.
Being neurodivergent and processing information differently from others is not a bad thing. In fact, people who are neurodivergent often have unique strengths when it comes to processing the information around them. One example of a strength is having attention to detail.
Who is neurodivergent?
People who might be described as neurodivergent include people with:
- Neurodevelopmental mental health conditions
- Autism
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (also called ADHD)
- Learning differences and dyslexia
- Sensory issues
- Neurogenetic and developmental disabilities
- Fragile X
- Down syndrome
- Intellectual disabilities
- Anxiety and OCD
People who are neurodivergent don’t all look or act the same. Someone being neurodivergent isn’t necessarily something you can see with your eyes. For some people, being in a social setting might be hard because of all of the sensory stimulation – like lights, sounds, and smells. Others might have trouble concentrating in school or at work, easily overwhelmed and distracted by the school or office environment. Some people who are neurodivergent may get so wrapped up in their work that they lose track of time, forgetting to take breaks or attend meetings.
Being neurodivergent means that you might need some extra tools to navigate the world you live in. Therapy can help you learn those tools and skills.
How do you support people who are neurodivergent?
There are a lot of ways to gain the skills and tools you need for navigating the world around you. We focus on neurodivergent-affirming care at Sheppard Pratt. Being neurodivergent isn’t something to be ‘cured’ or ‘fixed’ – it is who a person is.
When we engage in care for someone who is neurodivergent, we take a person-centered approach. Our clinicians will help patients identify their goals and then take a strengths-based approach to achieving those goals. We spend time talking about self-awareness, empowerment, advocacy, and what a person wants to accomplish – so they can build their definition of a meaningful life.
Here at Sheppard Pratt, we offer treatment including:
- Diagnostic evaluations
- Therapy
- Medication management
We offer diagnostic evaluations at The Center for Autism.
You can find therapy and medication management at our Hospital Outpatient Clinic. We also offer care for neurodivergent individuals at The Retreat by Sheppard Pratt.
