Neurodivergence

In the following, get to know some terminology and find out answers to important questions.

Neurodiversity

The term neurodiversity refers to the fact that there are natural differences in the functioning of human brains and nervous systems.

Neurodivergence

Neurodivergence is when certain brain functions (e.g. perception, attention, thought processing, interests, language, motricity) of a person are so significantly different that they are no longer perceived as being in the “normal range” of society.

Neurotypical

People whose brain functioning is in line what society perceives as “normal” are called neurotypical.

Is neurodivergence a disorder or illness?

Neurodivergence is innate. It is therefore a predisposition. Neurodivergence is not a diagnosis, disorder, illness or disability, but rather the name for a particular way of nervous system functioning. However, in certain contexts, neurodivergence can lead to distress and be perceived as disruptive or disabling. This may happen if the prevailing external demands or expectations are not compatible with neurodivergent functioning. At this point, usually diagnoses are made. 

Examples of neurodivergences are:

Depression, anxiety, OCD, eating disorders or personality disorders can (but do not have to!) be an expression of an underlying neurodivergence.

Could I be neurodivergent?

Typical experiences of neurodivergent people include:

These experiences last lifelong and can have noticeable consequences in coping with life, affecting self-perception, psychological well-being, relationships or expected performance. As a neurodivergent person, you may have questioned yourself throughout your life or been questioned by others, feel ashamed, feel alien, “disturbed,” strange, “immature,” not “strong” or resilient enough, and have the desire to be “normal.” 

At the same time, neurodivergent experiences often remain hidden and lead to internal suffering. Great efforts are made to hide one's own needs and feelings while adapting on the outside. This can be very exhausting.

Aren't we all neurodivergent?

Yes and no. Strictly speaking, each person's nervous system works in a unique way - precisely because humans as a group are neurodiverse. However, not everyone experiences emotional distress or difficulties in dealing with social norms due to their diversity. In the words of high sensitivity pioneer Elaine Aron: “But perhaps the bottom line is that all brains are different and some are just more different than others.” An estimated 15 to 20% of the world’s population is neurodivergent. 

How will we proceed?

First we look at how likely it is that you are neurodivergent. If there is a lot to be said for it, we decide together whether we leave it there or take the more formal route and carry out a diagnostic screening with possibly a subsequent external assessment of AD(H)D, autism, etc. This may also include the (re-)evaluation of other existing diagnoses.

As long as you would like to work with me and my approach and your individual concern is within my competence and capacity, we can also go directly down the therapeutic path. Thereby, we make sure that we work with your nervous system and not against it, so the positive sides of your disposition can finally come into play!

My values

It is important to me to be able to offer you a safe space in which you are taken on as you are. I unconditionally accept and honour your uniqueness.

I pay attention to a neurodivergence affirming language. This is based on my view that neurodivergence is not a pathology in itself, but a sign of natural human diversity and a predisposition that can also bring with it many strengths. Therefore, I will not talk about “deficits”. In the case of AD(H)D and ASD, I will exceptionally continue to use the term “disorder” until non-judgmental alternatives are available. Unless otherwise requested, I choose an identity-first language (e.g. "being autistic" rather than "having autism") because this linguistic approach reflects the self-perception of most neurodivergent people. I won't make a distinction based on functionality ("high-/low-functional").

My practice is set up so that you can freely choose how you prefer to spend your time in it. Fidget toys and a hanging chair are available. I also take your needs into account, for example when it comes to eye contact or shaking hands.

What is my personal relationship with neurodivergence?

I have personal experience with neurodivergence. In addition, in my practice I often meet clients who are not aware of their neurodivergence, but for whom this realization represents a change for the better in their lives. So I developed a great interest in this topic. At the same time, I am amazed at how little discussion of neurodivergence takes place in psychological research, teaching, clinical practice and in contexts such as politics or the professional world- at least here in Switzerland. All the more surprising as the term is now widespread on social media and in English-speaking areas. I assume that in the future, as knowledge about neurodivergence increases, concepts will have to be expanded and assessments revised in order to do justice to the variety of neurodivergent presentations. Neurodivergence must also find its way into the professional world and everyday life in order to provide those affected with greater wellbeing and opportunities.

I advocate for the recognition of neurodivergence and better conditions for neurodivergent people because I see on a daily basis how harmful it is and how much quality of life and potential is lost as long as there is no awareness and silent adaptation is expected. Thus, I closely follow the development of the neurodiversity movement.