What Is Neurodivergence, Really? And Could It Apply to You?

The word “neurodivergent” is showing up more and more—in schools, workplaces, on social media—but what does it really mean? And how do you know if it applies to you? Whether you’re newly exploring the concept or have long suspected your brain works a little differently, this guide will help you understand neurodivergence and how therapy can support you.

🧠 What Does “Neurodivergent” Mean?

Neurodivergence refers to the idea that some people’s brains work differently than what’s considered “neurotypical.” It’s not a medical diagnosis, but rather a social and inclusive framework that recognizes brain-based differences as a form of natural diversity—just like race, gender, or culture.

This term was first coined by sociologist Judy Singer in the late 1990s to help describe and advocate for people with neurological differences such as:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder

• Dyslexia and other learning differences

• Tourette Syndrome

• Sensory Processing Disorder

• Mental health conditions like anxiety, OCD, and more (depending on context)

🔍 Common Signs You Might Be Neurodivergent

You don’t need a diagnosis to start noticing patterns in your experience. Many neurodivergent folks:

• Feel easily overstimulated or emotionally overwhelmed

• Have difficulty with executive functioning (time management, organization, follow-through)

• Need more recovery time from social or sensory input

• Struggle with rigid routines or, conversely, find structure challenging

• Experience “masking”—the act of hiding or suppressing natural behaviors to fit in

• Often feel “too much” or “not enough” in neurotypical settings

These experiences can often feel isolating, especially if you’ve gone through life being misunderstood or mislabelled. You’re not alone—and support is available.

🌱 Therapy and Neurodivergence: How It Helps

Therapy can provide a safe and validating space to explore your experiences—diagnosed or not. At Your Story Counselling, we take a neurodiversity-affirming approach, meaning we don’t see your differences as deficits, but as valid expressions of how your brain works.

Here’s how therapy can support you:

• Understand and explore your neurodivergent identity

• Build coping strategies for daily challenges like burnout or overstimulation

• Process internalized shame or self-criticism from years of masking

• Improve communication and boundary setting in relationships

• Identify sensory, emotional, and cognitive needs in a supportive space

💬 Destigmatizing Help-Seeking

You don’t have to “prove” you’re neurodivergent to deserve support. Therapy isn’t just for people in crisis—it’s a tool for self-understanding, empowerment, and growth.

If you’ve ever thought:

• “I’ve always felt different, but didn’t know why.”

• “I’m so tired of trying to keep up with everyone else.”

• “Is there something wrong with me?”

Therapy may be the right place to begin healing those questions.

✨ We offer free 15-minute consultations to help you decide if therapy is a good fit for your needs—no pressure, just support.

⚠️ Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace a formal diagnosis or medical advice. Whether you identify as neurodivergent or are simply exploring your mental health, therapy can be helpful with or without a formal diagnosis.

If you're unsure where to start, consider speaking with a mental health professional or your family doctor to explore options. You deserve support, understanding, and tools that work for your brain.

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Your Story Counselling Services is a multicultural, inclusive, BIPOC clinic that offers online services as well as in-person sessions in Vaughan and Markham.

Judy Lui and her team of clinicians and supervised therapist interns offer trauma-informed, clinical counselling in the form of art, play, and talk therapy. With an emphasis on social equity and justice,

Your Story offers counselling at a range of fee levels. Judy continues to see her clients, manages the clinic as Clinical Director, and mentors master ’s-level therapist interns.

Judy has been featured in the Toronto Star, where she discussed the impact of mental health struggles and the toll of COVID-19 on romantic relationships. She also co-authored a chapter in the first edition of An Intersectional Approach to Sex Therapy Centering the Lives of Indigenous, Racialized, and People of Color. She is a committee member with the Anti-Racism Advocacy Group at the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association, where she helps organize community events and panels on racial trauma and advocacy.

Judy is also one of three 2024 RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneur Awards Micro-Business Finalists and will represent the Central Canadian Region (Ontario & Montreal) for this honour.

If you have additional questions regarding the contents of this article please feel free to contact us and we will be happy to answer you.

Should you have questions or inquiries regarding counselling and the process of counselling, please visit our FAQ page. contact us to ask questions, or learn more about our team of therapists before signing up for a free 15 minute consultation.

Terms and Conditions of Use:

The information provided in this article is intended to be general knowledge and does not constitute as professional advice or treatment. This information is not intended for the use of diagnosis or treatment. Please do not share or distribute this article without the proper referencing or written/verbal consent of Judy Lui. Additional information can be found at www.yourstorycounselling.com or requested via info@yourstorycounselling.com

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