Understanding Neurodivergence: Embracing Different Ways of Being

What Does It Mean to Be Neurodivergent?

The term neurodivergence describes the natural variation in how people think, process information, and experience the world. It acknowledges that there is no single “normal” way for a brain to work. Instead, human minds exist along a broad spectrum, with different strengths, challenges, and perspectives.

Coined by sociologist Judy Singer in the late 1990s, neurodivergence originally referred to individuals whose neurological development differs from what is considered “typical.” Over time, the term has evolved to include a variety of conditions and identities, such as:

• Autism

• Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

• Dyslexia

• Dyspraxia

• Tourette’s Syndrome

• Sensory Processing Differences

• Intellectual Disabilities

  And others.

For some, neurodivergence is lifelong and innate. For others, cognitive differences may emerge after trauma, injury, or chronic stress. There’s a growing understanding that neurodivergence reflects human diversity—not something that needs to be “fixed” but rather better understood and supported.

The Social Model vs. Medical Model

When thinking about neurodivergence, it’s helpful to understand two different frameworks.

The medical model tends to focus on diagnosis, deficits, and symptoms, often viewing neurodivergence as a problem to be treated or managed.

The social model looks at how societal structures, expectations, and environments create barriers for people whose minds work differently. It suggests that many challenges neurodivergent people face arise not from their neurodivergence itself, but from a world designed primarily for neurotypical people.

A trauma-informed lens recognizes the importance of both: understanding individual needs while working toward systems and environments that are more flexible, inclusive, and supportive of diverse ways of being.

Common Experiences of Neurodivergent People

Each person’s experience of neurodivergence is unique. However, some shared experiences often include:

• Differences in sensory processing, such as heightened or reduced sensitivity to light, sound, textures, or movement

• Communication differences, such as preferring written communication over verbal, or needing more time to process spoken language

• Attention differences, including hyperfocus (deep concentration on a specific interest) or difficulty sustaining focus on tasks that aren’t engaging

• Executive functioning challenges, which can affect planning, organization, time management, and task initiation

• Emotional regulation differences, including intense feelings or difficulties with stress tolerance

Many neurodivergent people describe both strengths and challenges in their ways of thinking and experiencing the world. While these differences can lead to barriers—especially in education, work, or social settings—they can also be sources of creativity, innovation, and unique perspectives.

The Role of Trauma

It’s important to acknowledge that many neurodivergent individuals have experienced trauma—not necessarily because of their neurodivergence itself, but because of the way they’ve been treated in systems that didn’t understand or accommodate them.This can include:

• Masking or suppressing traits to “fit in”

• Experiences of bullying, exclusion, or misunderstanding

• Navigating environments that feel overwhelming or unsafe

Chronic stress from these experiences can lead to heightened anxiety, burnout, and, in some cases, complex trauma. That’s why any approach to supporting neurodivergent individuals benefits from being trauma-sensitive: emphasizing safety, choice, collaboration, and agency.

Supporting Neurodivergent People

Whether you are neurodivergent yourself or supporting someone who is, small changes can make a big difference.

• Respect sensory needs: This might mean reducing noise, offering options for lighting, or respecting someone’s need for movement or stillness.

• Offer communication choices: Allow for written communication, visual supports, or extra processing time when possible.

• Create predictability: Clear expectations, routines, and advance notice of changes can help reduce anxiety.

• Honor autonomy: Trust that each person is the expert on their own experience. Offer choices rather than imposing one “right” way to engage, work, or interact.

• Validate different ways of being: Shift from a mindset of fixing or changing to one of understanding and embracing diversity. Neurodivergence isn’t something to be cured—it’s something to be respected.

Neurodivergence and Strengths

Neurodivergence isn’t just about challenges; it often comes with unique strengths. Many neurodivergent individuals have exceptional abilities in areas such as:

• Creative thinking

• Attention to detail

• Deep focus on areas of interest

• Unique problem-solving approaches

• Sensory attunement to the world in ways others might miss

When these strengths are recognized and valued, neurodivergent people can thrive in environments that embrace flexibility and inclusivity.

Moving Toward Neurodiversity-Affirming Spaces

Creating more inclusive and affirming environments means rethinking how we define productivity, communication, and success. It means letting go of “normal” as a benchmark and making room for diversity—in education, workplaces, healthcare, and communities.

If you’re curious about whether you might be neurodivergent, or if you are seeking support in navigating neurodivergence, working with a therapist who understands neurodiversity can be helpful. Whether through formal diagnosis or self-discovery, the most important part is finding language and frameworks that resonate with you.

Final Thoughts

Neurodivergence is a natural and valuable part of human diversity. While there can be real challenges, especially in a world designed for neurotypical experiences, there is also space for celebrating difference.Being neurodivergent isn’t about being less—it’s about being different. And different is not only okay, but necessary for a richer, more inclusive world.

References & Resources

• Singer, J. (1999). Why Can't You Be Normal for Once in Your Life?

• Walker, N. (2021). Neuroqueer Heresies.

• Kapp, S. K. (Ed.). (2020). Autistic Community and the Neurodiversity Movement: Stories from the Frontline.

• Dalton-Smith, S. (2017). Sacred Rest (for sensory and social rest reflections).