Neurodivergence Symptoms and Treatment Options
What Does Neurodivergence Mean?
Neurodivergence refers to the natural variations in how the brain processes information, emotions, and sensory experiences. It includes conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, Dyslexia, and other cognitive differences. Rather than viewing these as "disorders," we recognize them as diverse ways of thinking, learning, and experiencing the world.
At One Peace Therapy, we offer specialized therapy approaches tailored to neurodivergent individuals, helping them embrace their strengths, navigate challenges, and thrive in their own way.
What Are Symptoms of Experiencing Neurodivergence?
Some common symptoms of neurodivergence in psychotherapy include:
Sensory Sensitivities – Heightened or reduced responses to sounds, lights, textures, or social interactions.
Unique Communication Styles – Preference for direct language, nonverbal communication, or deep focus on specific interests.
Executive Functioning Challenges – Difficulty with organization, time management, or transitions.
Emotional & Social Differences – Struggles with conventional social norms or heightened emotional responses.
Neurodivergence Treatment with Strength-Based Therapy
Rather than pathologizing neurodivergence, Strength-Based Therapy helps individuals recognize and build upon their natural talents, skills, and passions. This approach fosters self-confidence, resilience, and personal growth.
Identifying Strengths: We help clients uncover and celebrate their unique abilities, whether it’s creativity, deep focus, problem-solving, or a strong sense of justice.
Reframing Challenges: Instead of seeing struggles as deficits, we guide individuals to find alternative strategies that align with their thinking style.
Building Self-Advocacy: Clients learn to confidently express their needs, set boundaries, and navigate environments in ways that work for them.
💡 Example: A person with ADHD who struggles with traditional organization methods might thrive using visual schedules, body-doubling, or gamified task management. Strength-Based Therapy helps them discover what works best for them—without shame or pressure to "fit in."
Ready to Find the Right Support?
Every neurodivergent journey is unique, and we’re here to support yours.
Book a Meet & Greet today to connect with one of our practitioners and explore how we can help you or your loved one thrive!
Neurodivergence Treatment with Mindfulness-Based Therapy
Many neurodivergent individuals experience sensory overload, racing thoughts, or difficulty regulating emotions. Mindfulness Therapy provides practical tools to increase self-awareness, manage stress, and create moments of calm.
Sensory-Friendly Mindfulness Practices: Instead of traditional meditation, we adapt mindfulness techniques that respect individual sensory needs, such as grounding exercises, deep pressure techniques, or nature-based mindfulness.
Emotional Regulation Strategies: Clients learn self-soothing techniques to navigate overwhelm, such as controlled breathing, guided visualization, or rhythmic movement.
Present-Moment Awareness: Encouraging focus on the present helps reduce anxiety and rumination, fostering a sense of control and stability.
💡 Example: A neurodivergent individual who struggles with social anxiety may use a 5-4-3-2-1 grounding exercise (naming things they can see, touch, hear, smell, and taste) to regain focus and calmness in overwhelming situations.
Ready to Find the Right Support?
Every neurodivergent journey is unique, and we’re here to support yours.
Book a Meet & Greet today to connect with one of our practitioners and explore how we can help you or your loved one thrive!
Neurodivergence Treatment with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which has been shown to be highly effective for a range of neurodivergent conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, and anxiety. CBT is a structured, goal-oriented therapy that helps individuals understand the connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors and equips them with practical strategies to manage challenges. Here's how it can be tailored to support neurodivergence:
Tailored Communication: For individuals with Autism or ADHD, CBT can be adapted to respect their communication styles. For example, using visual aids or simplified language can help increase understanding and engagement.
Skill-Building: CBT helps individuals develop crucial skills, such as emotional regulation, time management, and problem-solving, which are often areas of difficulty for neurodivergent individuals.
Behavioral Techniques: For conditions like ADHD, CBT can incorporate behavioral modification techniques, such as reinforcement strategies, to help with focus, task completion, and impulse control.
Mindfulness Techniques: Often used within CBT, mindfulness can be an evidence-based practice to help reduce anxiety, sensory overload, and stress in neurodivergent individuals. This can include techniques like deep breathing, grounding exercises, and focused attention.