Neurodiversity and Neurodivergence, and who do I work with?
Neurodiversity and Neurodivergence, and who do I work with?
The term 'Neurodiversity' is rooted in the social model of disability. It emerged within the early autistic activist community in the 1990's. It simply means a group of diverse individuals who interact and perceive the world in different ways. The whole population of Earth is neurodiverse; however, one singular person cannot be diverse. Similar to the diversity we see in nature, biodiversity. The social model of disability, in essence, means the belief that disabled people don't need to be 'fixed', but our environments need to be adapted, as that's what disables us.

Disclaimer: While I embrace the concept of neurodiversity, I want to clarify that we do not align with the recent viewpoints expressed by Judy Singer who by some is considered its publisher. The term "neurodiversity" is a vital part of the community's identity, and I affirm my commitment to inclusion and the support of LGBTQIA+ people and rights.
The term Neurodivergent was coined by Kassiane Asasumas. It refers to a social position in which people who are marginalised, pathologised, oppressed and labelled as "ill" or "disordered" for functioning in a way that diverges from neuronormativity, an oppressive system that believes there is a right or superior way to function. (Credit for the above definition: "The lived experience educator")
Neurodivergence includes many recognised neurotypes such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, Tourette syndrome, and acquired neurodivergence following brain injury. It can also encompass people whose experiences of thinking, learning, sensing, communicating, or regulating themselves differ from societal expectations.
My trading name, "Navigate Neurodiversity OT", refers to navigating the concept of neurodiversity, the social model of disability, understanding your own neurotype/s, and exploring our wellbeing as a neurodivergent adult.me an email with any questions.
Who do you work with?
I work with anyone who feels they come under the umbrella of being neurodivergent.
I work with adults who identify as neurodivergent or who feel traditional therapy and approaches have never quite fit.
I also support people exploring whether they might be neurodivergent, including those waiting for assessment or choosing not to pursue a diagnosis.
My practice is neurodiversity-affirming.
That means:
✓ We centre your unique strengths, needs, and goals not external expectations
✓ You won't be asked to mask, conform, or fit someone else's idea of "normal"
✓ We build practical strategies for activities that actually matter to you
✓ Sensory experiences, regulation needs, and executive function are treated as valid parts of your picture barriers to navigate, not deficits to fix
Whether you're seeking support for workplace challenges, burnout recovery, daily routines, relationships, or simply wanting to understand yourself better, you you belong here.
📬 Ready to find out if we'd be a good fit? Reach out for a free discovery call or drop
Address:Derby, England
Email: Send me a message
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Here is a non-exhaustive list of some neurotypes and areas people frequently come for support with:
Autism
ADHD
Dyspraxia
Dyslexia
Anxiety
Fatigue
Worry
Sensory needs
Workplace challenges
Sensory overwhelm
Burnout
Executive function
I have a particular interest in working with Autistic women and LGBTQIA+ people. I do not exclude any neurotype from my support; however, I will always assess if I am the right person to provide support to each client based on a number of factors, to ensure I am practising ethically.
I also recognise that many neurodivergent people may also experience the following:
ME/CFS
Chronic/persistent pain
ARFID
Endometreosis
Fibromyalgia
Walking aid & wheelchair users
MCAS
Hypermobility / connective tissue
Long-covid
POTS
Other mental and physical health needs
I am hypermobile, chronically ill and have chronic pain too. Therefore, I take a biopsychosocial and holistic approach that considers all aspects of your life.
Do feel free to contact me to set up a free discovery call to discuss if our services would be suited to your needs. Alternatively, email me if you have any questions.
