neurodivergent

Neurodivergent is an umbrella term for people whose brains process information, emotion, and sensory input in ways that differ from the dominant "neurotypical" standard. It includes experiences like autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, Tourette's, and others. The term emphasizes that these differences are natural human variation rather than deficits to be fixed.

For neurodivergent trauma survivors, healing work often involves two layers: recovering from the trauma itself and unlearning the shame of years spent trying to pass as neurotypical. Masking, burnout, and misdiagnosis are common. Trauma-informed, neurodivergent-affirming care meets people where they are, honors their sensory and relational needs, and treats their wiring as a valid way of being in the world.