Neurodiversity celebrates the vast ways people experience and interact with the world. The concept honours that there’s no single “right” way to think, learn, or engage socially and these differences shouldn’t be seen as deficits. Neurodiversity is about embracing diversity in neurological experiences, encompassing not only autism (ASD) but also ADHD, Dyslexia, Dysgraphia and other neurological variations.
For many people discovering or realising that they’re neurodiverse can be a profound, enlightening experience—one that often brings both relief and questions. Everyone’s experiences can be different. Perhaps you’ve noticed that your way of interacting with the world differs from what’s typical and you now have a framework to understand those differences. If you’re starting this journey, here are some things to keep in mind:
A Path to Self-Acceptance
The neurodiversity movement began in the 1990s to foster acceptance of neurological differences. Sociologist Judy Singer was among the first to coin the term neurodiversity, envisioning a world where neurological minorities are valued equally, with inclusion and understanding being core principles. This movement has spurred greater representation, advocacy and community support, with terms like neurodiverse and neurotypical entering common language.
It’s crucial to remember that being neurodiverse isn’t something to be “fixed”—it’s a way of being that brings its own strengths and challenges. Therapy can provide an affirming space to explore what neurodiversity means for you personally, helping you understand your strengths, preferences and areas where support may be helpful.
Grief
Grief often accompanies the experience of self-diagnosis or diagnosis of being neuro diverse as an adult. The fact that you were “missed “as a child and recognising experiences such as learning or sitting still were difficult - you may have been told you were badly behaved or a daydreamer. Mixed emotions are very usual as you come to terms with a new diagnosis when the penny drops, and you can join the dots of your experiences in life so far.
Increased Likelihood of Co-Occurring Conditions
For many neurodiverse individuals, having one neurological difference often comes with an increased likelihood of other co-occurring conditions, such as anxiety, depression, or ADHD. The current diagnostic manual, the DSM-5, notes that in 70% of cases, a diagnosis of autism is accompanied by at least one additional condition, and 40% of the time by two or more additional diagnoses. These co-occurring conditions can emerge at any point in a person’s life and may not be noticed until adolescence or even adulthood.
These overlapping conditions can sometimes complicate how individuals experience and understand their neurodiversity, adding layers to the support they might need. While not all neurodiverse people experience additional diagnoses, being aware of the increased likelihood of these co-occurrences can help individuals access a broad spectrum of therapeutic and practical resources to support their well-being. Neuro affirming therapy can provide individualised approaches to help navigate these complex elements, offering tools to manage each aspect effectively.
Language Matters
In discussing neurodiversity, the language we choose matters. For example, some people prefer identity-first language, like “autistic person,” while others prefer person-first language, such as “a person with autism.” Though it may seem like a small detail, using respectful, individualised language acknowledges each person’s preferences and experiences.
“Neurodiversity describes the idea that people experience and interact with the world around them in many different ways; there is no one ‘right’ way of thinking, learning, and behaving and differences are not viewed as deficits.” - Judy Singer
Building Your Toolkit for Success
Finding the right support can make a big difference, whether that’s a change in work environments, educational settings, or even home routines. Knowing what takes energy away and what gives you energy is important knowledge to have. Many neurodiverse individuals benefit from sensory adjustments, flexible routines and clear, direct communication to thrive. Employers, educators and communities are increasingly recognizing the need to make environments inclusive. In the workplace, this could look like:
● Providing sensory-friendly spaces for breaks.
● Using clear communication styles, including written instructions.
● Understanding individual needs in work setups and team dynamics.
Therapy for Neurodiverse Adults: Exploring Gestalt and Polyvagal Approaches
If you’re exploring what it means to be neurodiverse as an adult, therapy can offer a compassionate space to embrace this new self-awareness. Both Gestalt and Polyvagal therapies offer valuable perspectives and tools to support this journey:
● Gestalt Therapy: With a focus on present-moment awareness and self-exploration, Gestalt therapy can be particularly supportive. This approach encourages you to honour your authentic self and live according to your own needs and rhythms. It emphasises “wholeness,” helping you integrate parts of yourself that may have felt misunderstood or neglected. In this way, Gestalt therapy helps dismantle internalised societal pressures, offering validation and empowerment for who you are.
● Polyvagal Theory: This approach centres on feeling safe in social interactions—a crucial factor for many neurodiverse individuals who may feel overstimulated or misunderstood in social environments. Polyvagal-informed therapy uses gentle
techniques to regulate your nervous system, helping you navigate both calm and challenging situations. Learning how your body responds to different levels of stimulation can empower you to handle work, relationships and daily life with greater ease and self-compassion.
Pella Wellness
At Pella Wellness, we believe that every person, regardless of neurotype, deserves to feel truly seen, supported and respected. Amanda, a Clinical Counsellor and Gestalt and ND Neuro-Affirming Practitioner with lived experience of neurodiversity—offers a safe, accepting space where your needs are understood. With a trauma-informed, relational approach, Pella Wellness provides therapy that honours each person’s journey, embracing differences with warmth and curiosity. Whether through Gestalt’s present-centred approach or Polyvagal techniques, Pella Wellness is here to help you navigate your journey with peace, understanding and self-empowerment.
You Are Not Alone
Whether you’re newly diagnosed or coming to terms with a self-diagnosis, remember that you’re part of a supportive, growing community. Learning to see neurodiversity as part of who you are—not a limitation but a unique perspective on the world—is a journey that many before you have taken. As you build confidence in your neurodiverse identity, you’ll find spaces that embrace you fully, recognizing the unique insights you bring.
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