Neurodiversity

Many of the young people and young adults I work with are used to holding things together on the outside while struggling internally. This can become especially difficult during the transition from school into whatever comes next. Some are neurodivergent. Some are dealing with anxiety, low mood, burnout, questions about identity, difficult experiences from the past, ways of coping that are causing problems, or relationships that do not feel good for them. Often, several of these overlap.

My aim is to offer an inclusive practice that respects identity, culture, beliefs, and personal choices. I am committed to working inclusively with individuals of different cultures, neurotypes, genders, sexual orientations and ages.

One of my key interests is working with issues around identity and self-esteem, exploring the life experiences that have led young people to develop certain defenses and judgments about themselves and the world. A particular area of interest is neurodiversity. As a neuro-affirming counsellor, I strive to help young people understand and accept their own unique place in the world, empowering them to make the decisions and choices that are right for them.

I am committed to creating an environment where all neurotypes are respected and understood and I embrace the social model of neurodiversity, which values differences rather than viewing them through a medical lens. This commitment is more than just simply about offering physical accommodations like fidget toys or not expecting eye contact; these are important, and in my practice I offer a flexible physical space where there's room for adaptations: temperature, seating, lighting, sounds, etc. But for me it is also about being humble and continuously educating myself, advocating for neurodivergent young people and helping them advocate for themselves.