Neurodiversity: A Cultural Awakening
Awareness is expanding about the vastness of the spectrum of neurodiverse presentations and experiences, particularly with autism and ADHD.
Misconceptions and stereotypes have resulted in many high-masking, camouflaging, internalizing neurodivergents being misdiagnosed or undiagnosed. For example, studies now acknowledge a “lost generation” of autistic adults.
Historically treated as mutually exclusive, new research shows that 50–72% of contributing genetic factors overlap between ASD and ADHD¹. Most people with autism also have ADHD, and many ADHDers also have autism³.
Evolving understandings of neurodiversity support accommodation and signal hope for children and adolescents. For neurodivergent adults, insights resulting from self-discovery can be healing epiphanies.
Formal diagnosis may not always be accessible or desirable. My priority is to attune to and facilitate your individual process.
Resources
Embrace Autism — The ultimate autism resource: self-tests, articles, resources, and more, including ADHD
Unmasking Autism — Bestselling book by Devon Price, PhD
Unmasking for Life — Support and guidance for exploring unmasking by Devon Price, PhD
Divergent Mind: Thriving in a World That Wasn't Designed for You — A book on ADHD, autism, synesthesia, high sensitivity, and sensory processing disorder in women, by Jenara Nerenberg
How to ADHD — YouTube channel with evidence-based tools and information
Hacking Your ADHD — Podcast offering techniques for support with ADHD
ADHD Essentials Podcast: Medication Part 1 & Part 2 — Discussing non-stimulant & stimulant options
Self-Identified Adult Autism Resources Handout — from the University of Washington
PDA North America — Information and support for this distinct autism profile relating to control, autonomy, and demand response
“Females with Aspergers Non-Official Checklist” — Useful regardless of gender identity
Neuroclastic — The autism spectrum according to autistic people
Neurowonderful — Autism Resources/Information Masterpost blog
Autistic Self-Advocacy Network
Kido Psychological Services — Diagnostic testing in Vancouver, WA
Adventure Psychological Services — Diagnostic testing in Vancouver, WA
Lavender Spectrum Health — Neurodiversity and gender affirming primary care, medication management, and more in Vancouver, WA