Neurodivergence & Neurodiversity
Neurodiversity, or being Neurodiverse, is an umbrella term to encompass distinct Neurotypical and Neurodivergent brain types, and the spectrum of difference amongst both. Neurotypical individuals are in the majority, although up to 20% of the Irish population are estimated to be Neurodivergent.
Synonymous with non-typical brain functioning, information processing, and behaviours, Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia, and Tourette Syndrome, are some of the most common forms of singular and combined Neurodivergence. Rather than focusing upon disorders, deficits, or impairments, being Neuro-affirmative means that differences are embraced as natural variations, and valued for prospective strengths, creativity, and individuality.
Compared to the majority of the national population, Neurodivergent individuals have exposure to higher rates of risk to mental illness, and poor well-being. Despite this exposure, alarmingly low levels of educational, employment, and societal support structures, create and compound these issues.
Waterford Counselling Centre fully embraces the use of a Neuro-affirmative approach, to foster genuine and relevant connections, as a productive, healthy foundation and minimum standard, for work with individuals of all ages.
The nature of this work often features collaborative exploration of self-identity, for those who wonder if they are Neurodivergent, and/or for those with recently discovered Neurodivergence. Specifically, many evaluate how their Neurodivergence overlaps and/or interacts with sexuality, gender, trauma, school, employment, friendship, and relationship issues, concerns, perceptions, and experiences (intersectionality).
Our support services are also directly availed of by parents of children who are either pre or post assessment. Sessions of this nature are not only provided to the parents of children and adolescents, but also to the parents of adult children.
Seeking support is a strength and not a weakness!
