Therapy for Neurodivergent Adults
As a neurodivergent person, you are likely to have experienced unique types of trauma that stem from environments not designed with your needs in mind. Understanding these specific traumas can help you recognise the importance of seeking support and therapy.
Here are some common types of trauma you might have faced:
Sensory Overload
You might have heightened sensory sensitivities, and constant exposure to overwhelming stimuli like loud noises, bright lights, or crowded spaces can be traumatic. If you’ve been forced to endure such environments without adequate accommodations, it’s important to acknowledge this impact on your well-being.
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Social Rejection and Bullying
Social difficulties can lead to isolation, bullying, or rejection, especially during childhood or adolescence. If you’ve experienced repeated social exclusion or been targeted for your differences, this can result in long-term emotional trauma, affecting your self-esteem and sense of belonging.
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Masking and Camouflaging
You may have felt the need to hide your neurodivergent traits to fit into a neurotypical society. Constantly suppressing your natural behaviours and trying to conform can be emotionally exhausting and lead to burnout. Over time, this can cause trauma due to the feeling of having to “hide” who you are to be accepted.
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Institutional and Medical Trauma
You might have been subjected to therapies or treatments aimed at making you appear more neurotypical, such as Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA), which can be traumatising. Difficulties accessing appropriate medical care, dismissal of your symptoms, and lack of proper accommodations during treatment are common issues that can lead to medical trauma or neglect.
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Meltdown and Shutdown Trauma
Experiencing meltdowns (intense reactions to overwhelming situations) or shutdowns (withdrawal in response to overwhelming stimuli) can be challenging. Societal responses like punishment, shaming, or physical restraint can be traumatising. The fear of having a meltdown in public can also contribute to chronic stress.
Rigid and Unforgiving Environments
Environments that don’t allow for flexibility or accommodation for your neurodivergent traits (such as differences in communication, need for routines, or sensory needs) can cause trauma. You may feel that the world is not built for you, leading to chronic stress, anxiety, and feelings of inadequacy.
Being Under-Utilized, Under-Achieving, or Missing Promotions
Navigating the workplace can be challenging due to a lack of accommodations and understanding of neurodivergent needs. You may find yourself under-utilized, under-achieving, or missing out on promotions because your strengths are not recognised or supported. This constant feeling of being misunderstood or undervalued can lead to significant emotional distress and impact your overall well-being.
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Misunderstood Communication
You may communicate differently from neurotypicals, and when these differences are misunderstood or dismissed, it can lead to feelings of frustration, isolation, or rejection. Being consistently misinterpreted or told that your communication style is wrong can be emotionally damaging over time.
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Misdiagnosis and Gender Bias in Women
As a woman, seeking a late diagnosis for neurodivergence can sometimes lead to being misdiagnosed, with symptoms attributed to menopause instead. This gender bias can prevent you from receiving the appropriate support and understanding. Being told that your experiences are merely a result of menopause, rather than recognising the possibility of neurodivergence, can be frustrating and invalidating, adding to your emotional distress.
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By understanding these unique types of trauma, you can take the first step towards healing. Therapy can provide a safe space to explore these experiences, develop coping strategies, and build resilience. Seeking therapy is a powerful act of self-care and empowerment. It’s an opportunity to work with a professional who understands your unique needs and can help you navigate the challenges you face.
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You deserve to feel supported, understood, and valued. Therapy can help you reclaim your sense of self, improve your mental health, and foster a more fulfilling life. You are not alone, and there are resources and professionals ready to help you on your journey to healing and self-acceptance.​
Why Choose myturn2talk Psychology
Choosing myturn2talk Psychology means working with a professional who combines extensive experience with a practical, neuro-affirming approach. Kirsten's background spans from the corporate world to developmental psychology, giving her a well-rounded perspective on the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals. She specialises in Autism and ADHD adult assessment and support, ensuring you receive knowledgeable and empathetic guidance tailored to your needs.
Whether you live in Ringwood and prefer face-to-face consultations or reside further away and would like to speak with a specialist in neurodiversity, you have the option to choose a Telehealth appointment. This flexibility ensures that you can access the support you need in a way that best suits your circumstances.