What Is Neurodivergence? A Psychologist’s Guide to Understanding the Many Ways We Think
If you’ve ever felt like your brain just doesn’t work the way others expect it to - you’re not alone. More and more people across Australia (and beyond) are beginning to explore the concept of neurodivergence, often for the first time in adulthood. But what does it actually mean to be neurodivergent? And how can working with a neurodivergent-affirming psychologist help?
As a psychologist based in Victoria, offering primarily telehealth therapy for clients across Australia, I specialise in supporting neurodivergent individuals - including those with ADHD, Autism, and dyslexia. This article will walk you through what neurodivergence is, why it matters, and how therapy can support your mental health in a way that actually makes sense for your brain.
What Is Neurodivergence?
Neurodivergence is a non-medical term used to describe brains that function differently from what’s typically expected in society - also known as neurotypical. Rather than seeing these differences as disorders or deficits, the term recognises them as part of the natural variation in human thinking, feeling, and experiencing.
Neurodivergence includes a range of conditions, such as:
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Dyslexia
Dyspraxia
Dyscalculia
Tourette’s Syndrome
And more
You don’t need a formal diagnosis to relate to the concept of neurodivergence. Many people find the term helpful in explaining why they've always felt a little different - especially when traditional systems (school, work, relationships) feel harder than they “should.”
How Does Neurodivergence Affect Mental Health?
Many neurodivergent individuals are high-functioning on the outside, but internally struggling with:
Burnout
Emotional dysregulation
Time blindness
Executive dysfunction
Chronic overwhelm
Low self-worth from years of masking
These struggles aren’t personal failings - they’re often the result of living in a world that isn’t built for how your brain works.
That’s why working with a psychologist who understands neurodivergence is essential.
Why Work With a Neurodivergent-Affirming Psychologist?
Traditional therapy models don’t always work for neurodivergent clients. As a neurodivergent-affirming therapist, I take a different approach. My work is about:
Understanding how your brain works
Unlearning the shame of not fitting the mould
Developing realistic, sustainable strategies that support your daily life
Helping you regulate your nervous system and build emotional safety
Creating space for self-acceptance - not self-blame
Whether you’re formally diagnosed with ADHD, Autism, or dyslexia, or you just feel like you process the world differently, you deserve support that meets you where you are.
Telehealth Therapy for Neurodivergent Clients in Victoria and Across Australia
I offer telehealth psychology sessions for clients based in Victoria and beyond. That means you can access therapy from the comfort of your own space - especially helpful if you’re juggling a busy life, sensory needs, or simply find in-person sessions overwhelming.
If you’re based near Mordialloc, Victoria, and prefer to meet face-to-face, in-person sessions may be arranged upon request.
Therapy That Works With Your Brain — Not Against It
Neurodivergence isn’t something to fix - it’s something to understand, honour, and work with. If you’re ready to stop pretending you're fine, stop pushing through burnout, and start building a life that actually fits you…
You're in the right place.
Looking for a psychologist who gets it?
Fill in the application form to work with me or reach out with any questions. I’d love to support you.