The Divergent Voice

By: Dr. Julie Landry

Are you looking for a clinical psychologist with expertise in ADULT autism and ADHD in your local area? We know how challenging that can be! In fact, NeuroSpark was started based on our personal experiences and difficulties finding mental health specialists as neurodivergent adults.

By: Julie Landry

If you've been researching adult autism assessment or are in the process of self-diagnosis, you’ve probably seen the free online tests, which include the RAADS-R test.

By: Cat Salladin

When we talk about sensitivity, it’s easy to picture someone who’s emotionally fragile, maybe a bit prone to tears, and easily overwhelmed. Oftentimes, the word “sensitive” is used with a negative connotation, or even as an insult.

By: Cat Salladin

When I was a kid, I frequently wondered why I seemed more emotional and sensitive than my peers. I felt deeply distraught when one of my friends was made fun of or hurt, sometimes even more than the friend themselves. And, conversely, I experienced jubilation and excitement that seemed to far exceed what my counterparts displayed.

By: NeuroSpark Health

While autism is typically diagnosed in childhood, many adults are now seeking assessments and diagnoses later in life.

By: By Cat Salladin

Love languages—those special ways we show and receive affection—are at the heart of any relationship, whether it be a romantic relationship, friendship, or family.

By: Cat Salladin

Twice-exceptional (2e) individuals are those who are both gifted and have a neurodivergent profile, such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, or other learning differences or disabilities. This unique combination creates a complex, often misunderstood experience, particularly for teenagers and adults navigating a world that may not fully understand their capabilities or challenges.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Social anxiety and autism are two experiences that can significantly impact a person's life in a variety of ways. While they share some similarities in terms of social difficulties and anxiety, they are fundamentally different in their nature, origins, and manifestations.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Self-defense mechanisms are essential psychological strategies used by individuals to cope with reality and maintain their self-image. These mechanisms operate subconsciously and vary widely among people.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Recognizing the signs of autism in adults, understanding the impact of masking, exploring the benefits of identification, and considering neurodivergent coaching can provide valuable insights and support.

By: Cat Salladin

Autism and neurodiversity as a whole have garnered significant attention in recent years. Traditional, pathologizing approaches often focus on autism as a condition that needs to be treated or cured.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Autism is a neurotype that can present in many different ways depending on the individual person. Often, autism is seen to create differences in communication, behavior, and social interactions.

By: Cat Salladin

Autism is a neurotype that can present in a variety of ways, often leading to differences in communication, social interactions, and behavior. One significant aspect of autism, especially in women and those assigned female at birth (AFAB), is the phenomenon of masking or camouflaging.

By: Cat Salladin

Historically, autism has been viewed through a pathologizing lens. However, autism is a natural variation in human neurology, encompassing a wide range of traits and characteristics that make each individual unique.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Both autism and BPD have historically been misunderstood and stigmatized, but a neurodiversity-affirming approach offers a more compassionate and inclusive understanding.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Autistic shutdowns are a significant challenge of the autistic experience that is more common than you might think, in both children and adults.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Task paralysis is a common and often debilitating challenge faced by adults with ADHD. This phenomenon occurs when an individual feels completely unable to start or complete tasks, even when they have a strong desire to do so. Task paralysis can be incredibly frustrating and can significantly impact productivity and well-being.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Autistic meltdowns are a significant aspect of the lived experience for many autistic adults. Unlike tantrums, which are often seen in children as a way to get what they want, meltdowns are intense responses to overwhelming situations.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is often discussed within the context of mental health, but its classification as neurodivergent is increasingly recognized. Neurodivergence encompasses a variety of neurological differences, including, but certainly not just limited to autism and ADHD.

By: NeuroSpark Health

In recent years, the term "tism" has gained popularity as a colloquial and affectionate shorthand for autism. While some may view it as merely a playful abbreviation, others see it as a way to embrace and normalize neurodiverse identities.

By: Cat Salladin

Autism encompasses a range of neurodevelopmental differences that affect communication, behavior, and sensory processing. A key concept within the autistic community that often goes unrecognized by neurotypical perspectives is "autistic inertia."

By: By Cat Salladin

Neurodiversity is a concept that recognizes and values the natural variations in human brain functioning. This includes autism, ADHD, dyslexia, OCD, and other differences in neurotypes.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Having ADHD and finding your rhythm in the workplace can come with a variety of challenges. Adults with ADHD struggle with focus, time management, organization, and other executive function skills important for success in a professional setting.

By: Cat Salladin

Selective mutism (SM) is a complex and often misunderstood experience that is especially common in autistic people and creates unique communication differences, challenges, and needs.

By: Dani Rodwell

When I look up “autism therapists near me,” I’m not at all impressed with the results. I’ve done it before to try to find a therapist and for the purpose of this very blog, I tried again and let out a deep sigh of disappointment once again.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Experiencing autistic meltdowns as an adult can be an intense and recurring challenge in our lives. Autistic meltdowns as an adult, just as autistic meltdowns in children, are sometimes very difficult to predict and manage.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Autism has historically been thought of as a childhood diagnosis, but many adults are also autistic without realizing it until later in life for a variety of reasons.

By: Cat Salladin

Proprioception refers to the body's ability to sense its position, movement, and spatial orientation. While proprioceptive processing operates largely subconsciously in allistic individuals, it can manifest differently in autistic individuals, contributing to variations in sensory experiences.

By: Cat Salladin

In our ever-evolving understanding of human diversity, our understanding of the concept of sensory experiences have improved tremendously in recent years.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Living with ADHD as an adult comes along with several challenges and creates real challenges in various aspects of daily life including work, relationships, life skills, and overall well-being.

By: Cat Salladin

Among the myriad facets of autism, hypoarousal emerges as a phenomenon often overlooked, yet profoundly influential in shaping the lived experiences of autistic individuals.

By: Cat Salladin

Within the expansive autism spectrum, alexithymia emerges as a particularly intriguing phenomenon, offering profound insights into the complexities of emotional processing and expression.

By: Cat Salladin

The topic of neurodiversity has gained significant traction in recent years, sparking introspection among many individuals who wonder if they fall within its wide and diverse spectrum.

By: Cat Salladin

In our ever-evolving quest for inclusivity and understanding, language serves as a powerful tool in shaping our perceptions of the world and the diverse array of human experiences within it.

By: Jennifer Alumbaugh

If you’re someone who’s neurodivergent collection includes ADHD like me, chances are you’ve heard one, some, or all of these statements in a variety of settings like school, work, community, and family.

By: Cat Salladin

Neurodiversity celebrates the uniqueness of human brains, recognizing that differences in brain function are natural and valuable. Neurodivergent individuals, including those with conditions like autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and others, contribute to the rich tapestry of human cognition and creativity.

By: Cat Salladin

Neurodiversity is a concept that acknowledges the natural variations in human cognition and neurodevelopment. It recognizes that neurological differences, such as those seen in autism, ADHD, sensory processing disorder, and other conditions, are simply part of the spectrum of human diversity.

By: Cat Salladin

In our contemporary understanding of the autism spectrum, there has been a gradual shift towards embracing neurodiversity—a perspective that recognizes and celebrates the inherent differences in neurological functioning among individuals.

By: NeuroSpark Health

When someone experiences difficulties with attention, executive functioning differences, and possibly hyperactivity/impulsivity, they may begin to wonder if they have ADHD.

By: Dani Rodwell

If there’s one thing I know about autistic people and ADHD people, comfort is paramount. We do things with our bodies to feel safer, to feel more regulated, to feel less awkward, and sometimes it may even look awkward to others while feeling natural and good to us.

By: Julie Landry

Imagine constantly feeling like you are running on empty, with no spoons left to cope with the demands of daily life. This is what autistic burnout can feel like.

By: Cat Salladin

The question of whether cats can be autistic is a complex one, and research is still ongoing to fully understand the presence of autistic traits in cats.

By: Dr. Julie Landry

Have you ever felt intensely focused on a single interest or task, to the extent that the world around you seems to fade away? Or perhaps you've noticed that when you concentrate on something you're passionate about, it's difficult to switch your attention to anything else.

By: Cat Salladin

In today's fast-paced world, finding inner peace can sometimes seem like an elusive dream, especially for neurodivergent individuals. Balancing work, family, and personal responsibilities can take a toll on our mental and emotional wellbeing, leaving us feeling stressed and overwhelmed.

By: Dani Rodwell

In the colorful landscape of the neurodivergent community, there exists a multitude of intricate phrases and identities that help us describe who we are. Within this space, there are many different variations of the word “neurodivergent” －neurodistinct, neurowonderful, neurosparkly, neurospicy, neurodefiant, and many more.

By: Julie Landry

In mental health and trauma, the concept of dorsal vagal shutdown plays a pivotal but often misunderstood role. This physiological response, rooted in the complex workings of the nervous system, can profoundly impact an individual's ability to regulate emotions and navigate stressful situations.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Are you curious about your brain's unique wiring? Wondering if you might be neurodivergent? Discovering your unique neurotype can be an empowering journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance.

By: Dani Rodwell

The AuDHD experience continues to be a growing conversation about the very multifaceted and nuanced experience of being multiply neurodivergent.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Have you ever wondered why some people seem to handle stress with ease while others become completely overwhelmed? The answer lies in understanding the concept of the window of tolerance. In this blog, we will delve into the depths of the window of tolerance and its impact on our emotional well-being.

By: NeuroSpark Health

In the vast and oftentimes overwhelming process of pursuing autism exploration or diagnosis, late-realized adults may have a particularly hard time knowing where to turn.

By: Julie Landry

Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is characterized by an intense, anxiety-fueled resistance to the everyday demands of life. In adults, PDA often presents as an overpowering desire to maintain control over their environment and a tendency to steer clear of tasks that provoke stress.

By: Dr. Julie Landry

Adults with PDA might struggle with tasks that involve change, uncertainty, or external expectations. This frequently leads to difficulties in employment, relationships, and day-to-day functioning.

By: Dani Rodwell

Why neurodiversity affirming practices should apply across all contexts including neurodiversity affirming education, workplaces, and social settings.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Reasons for diagnosed autism in females, and why woman pursue autism asssessment in adulthood

By: NeuroSpark Health

Being able to recognize whether you experience rejection sensitive dysphoria, and how it shows up for you, is a powerful aspect of self-awareness that could be helpful for you to better manage it.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Tips about understanding, navigating, and dealing with rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD)

By: NeuroSpark Health

Because it is not an officially recognized medical diagnosis, a formal sensory processing disorder test currently does not exist.

By: Tasha Raella

I hope that one day I will live in  a time when more therapists will feel safe enough to disclose their autism to clients and colleagues.

By: NeuroSpark Health

It’s remarkable how many people have suspicions that they might be autistic, but they don’t know how (or don’t feel comfortable) to bring up autism with their therapist.

By: NeuroSpark Health

AuDHD is a term that many members of the neurodivergent community use to describe the experience of being both autistic and ADHD. AuDHD is not a clinical term, and it doesn’t appear in the DSM, but it is a lived experience term created by the community that is both short and sweet.

By: Dani Rodwell

A common question that people ask themselves when they start to explore and learn more about neurodivergence is whether zoning out is a sign of ADHD. That’s both a valid experience and a valid question.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Executive functioning is a set of important skills that enable you to get things done. Simply, the adjective “executive” refers to the quality of being suited to put plans and actions into effect.

By: Dani Rodwell

The community wants to know, is my boyfriend autistic?

By: Vee Martin

If you suspect that demand avoidance, PDA, or “pervasive drive for autonomy” may be impacting your life, NeuroSpark Health would feel privileged to support you.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Recognizing that you’re masking and making the choice to try to remove that mask is a personal decision and a huge step in moving toward a life of authenticity.

By: NeuroSpark Health

By: NeuroSpark Health

Starting your journey of pursuing an autism diagnosis can be overwhelming and it is often difficult to find a knowledgeable and affirming provider. The step-by-step instructions below will guide you to getting the answers you deserve.

By: Dani Rodwell

Autistics and ADHDers often have an extremely tough time with task switching. 

By: Dr. Julie Landry

Whether you are self-diagnosed, autistic-exploring, or pursuing an adult autism evaluation, autistic identification can provide many benefits.

By: Dani Rodwell

AuDHD Assessment. AuDHD test. AuDHD test online… and one of my personally-used favorites, “AuDHD reddit.”

By: NeuroSpark Health

By: NeuroSpark Health

The reported autistic male-to-female ratio is 4:1, but that's likely because autism in women is often missed or misdiagnosed. Learn the reasons why and signs to look for.

By: NeuroSpark Health

While there are some things that autism and ADHD have in common, there are quite a few ways that they differ from one another.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Vocal stimming can be a great coping mechanism for autistic people and people with ADHD. Learn about vocal stims and what types there are.

By: NeuroSpark

Autism stimming comes in all forms, but what are the most common? Learn about the types of stimming as well as 10 autism stimming examples.

By: NeuroSpark Health

So, is autism a disability? To be honest, it’s tricky and it deserves a much more nuanced conversation. Yes, the technical answer is that autism is a disability. 

By: NeuroSpark Health

Our understanding of autism continues to evolve as we learn more about how autism came to be recognized as a spectrum.

By: Dani Rodwell

Unsure which travel accommodations can be helpful for autistics? NeuroSpark Health’s Dani Rodwell reveals autistic travel accommodations that she uses.

By: NeuroSpark Health

The full impact of autistic masking is not yet publicly understood and continues to be studied, but many actually autistic people have been sharing about their masking experiences, which is incredibly validating for the rest of the community.

By: NeuroSpark Health

NeuroSpark Health shares how autism is diagnosed, autism characteristics, and strategies that can help you work through associated challenges.

By: Dani Rodwell

Are you an autistic person with ADHD who struggles with routines? NeuroSpark Health’s Dani Rodwell reveals how her autism and ADHD affect her routines.

By: Dani Rodwell

Want to know what AMA Draft Resolution 706 really says about ABA? NeuroSpark Health’s Dani Rodwell lays it all out in layman’s terms.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism often have several overlapping characteristics and frequently co-occur. The overlapping traits and similarities are often misunderstood and misinterpreted by healthcare professionals who do not specialize in adult ADHD and autism. 

By: NeuroSpark Health

At-home autism-affirming therapy can be a valuable resource to autistic people in a range of situations. Learn about benefits like specialist access.

By: NeuroSpark Health

"High-functioning" autism in women often goes overlooked. This is more accurately called high-masking. Learn how to identify the traits of high-masking autism.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Autism coaching can be a valuable resource for autistic people looking for guidance and support.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Do I have autism? Many adults can go through life knowing that they have unique traits and experiences, but are realizing later in life that these qualities align with the autism spectrum and begin exploring their neurodivergent identities. Receiving a formal diagnosis is not at all necessary to self-identify as autistic.

By: Neurospark Health

What is stimming? Learn about what stimming is and some of the different forms it can take. Discover how healthy stimming can provide comfort.

By: Dani Rodwell

NeuroSpark’s co-founder Dani Rodwell shares her informal thoughts about what identity, pride, and intersectionality means to her. Dani cares a lot about authenticity, embracing differences, and celebrating uniqueness﹣ especially during Pride﹣and she supports others to do the same. 

By: Dr Julie Landry

Did you know that autism has a male-to-female ratio of 4:1? Learn about 5 overlooked signs of autism in women that can lead to being undiagnosed.

By: Vanessa Quinn

NeuroSpark is celebrating Pride by amplifying the voices of neurodivergent LGBTQ+ and gender-diverse community members, like Vanessa Quinn.

By: Dr Julie Landry

June 18 is Autistic Pride Day, which celebrates pride in the autistic community. Learn 4 ways to show your support and pride in the community.

By: Dr Julie Landry

Autism can't be cured or fixed, but it can be affirmed. Learn about 5 life-changing benefits of autism-affirming therapy for adults.

By: Dani Rodwell

I was able to connect the dots on a lot of repetitive behaviors that I have been doing my entire life without even the thought that they were in fact, self-stimulatory. Stims can be very obvious and they can also be very subtle. 

By: Dani Rodwell

NeuroSpark cofounder Dani Rodwell shares her experience with autistic burnout and moving away from traditional 9 to 5 work to a more neuroinclusive life.

By: Felíz Felix

NeuroSpark is celebrating Pride by amplifying the voices of neurodivergent LGBTQ+ and gender-diverse community members, like Felíz Felix.

By: Dr Julie Landry

Stimming isn’t only a feature of the ADHD brain; it’s of course very prevalent for autistic individuals as well. People with either brain style can utilize stimming as a way to soothe anxiety, but ADHD stimming has a more narrowed purpose of increasing focus and assisting with impulse control.

By: Dr Julie Landry

Simply put, autism is characterized by differences in the brain. This can include differences in social-communication, information processing, sensory experiences, and restricted or repetitive patterns..

By: Jennifer Alumbaugh

NeuroSpark is celebrating Pride by amplifying the voices of neurodivergent LGBTQ+ and gender-diverse community members, like Jennifer Alumbaugh.

By: Dani Rodwell

I was an unidentified neurodivergent child who was being unfairly held to neurotypical expectations.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Task paralysis is a common and often debilitating challenge faced by adults with ADHD. This phenomenon occurs when an individual feels completely unable to start or complete tasks, even when they have a strong desire to do so. Task paralysis can be incredibly frustrating and can significantly impact productivity and well-being.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Having ADHD and finding your rhythm in the workplace can come with a variety of challenges. Adults with ADHD struggle with focus, time management, organization, and other executive function skills important for success in a professional setting.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Living with ADHD as an adult comes along with several challenges and creates real challenges in various aspects of daily life including work, relationships, life skills, and overall well-being.

By: NeuroSpark Health

When someone experiences difficulties with attention, executive functioning differences, and possibly hyperactivity/impulsivity, they may begin to wonder if they have ADHD.

By: Dani Rodwell

The AuDHD experience continues to be a growing conversation about the very multifaceted and nuanced experience of being multiply neurodivergent.

By: Dani Rodwell

A common question that people ask themselves when they start to explore and learn more about neurodivergence is whether zoning out is a sign of ADHD. That’s both a valid experience and a valid question.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Executive functioning is a set of important skills that enable you to get things done. Simply, the adjective “executive” refers to the quality of being suited to put plans and actions into effect.

By: Dani Rodwell

Autistics and ADHDers often have an extremely tough time with task switching. 

By: NeuroSpark Health

While there are some things that autism and ADHD have in common, there are quite a few ways that they differ from one another.

By: Dani Rodwell

Are you an autistic person with ADHD who struggles with routines? NeuroSpark Health’s Dani Rodwell reveals how her autism and ADHD affect her routines.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism often have several overlapping characteristics and frequently co-occur. The overlapping traits and similarities are often misunderstood and misinterpreted by healthcare professionals who do not specialize in adult ADHD and autism. 

By: Dr Julie Landry

Stimming isn’t only a feature of the ADHD brain; it’s of course very prevalent for autistic individuals as well. People with either brain style can utilize stimming as a way to soothe anxiety, but ADHD stimming has a more narrowed purpose of increasing focus and assisting with impulse control.

By: Dr. Julie Landry

Are you looking for a clinical psychologist with expertise in ADULT autism and ADHD in your local area? We know how challenging that can be! In fact, NeuroSpark was started based on our personal experiences and difficulties finding mental health specialists as neurodivergent adults.

By: Julie Landry

If you've been researching adult autism assessment or are in the process of self-diagnosis, you’ve probably seen the free online tests, which include the RAADS-R test.

By: Cat Salladin

Autism and neurodiversity as a whole have garnered significant attention in recent years. Traditional, pathologizing approaches often focus on autism as a condition that needs to be treated or cured.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Autism has historically been thought of as a childhood diagnosis, but many adults are also autistic without realizing it until later in life for a variety of reasons.

By: NeuroSpark Health

When someone experiences difficulties with attention, executive functioning differences, and possibly hyperactivity/impulsivity, they may begin to wonder if they have ADHD.

By: Dr. Julie Landry

Have you ever felt intensely focused on a single interest or task, to the extent that the world around you seems to fade away? Or perhaps you've noticed that when you concentrate on something you're passionate about, it's difficult to switch your attention to anything else.

By: NeuroSpark Health

In the vast and oftentimes overwhelming process of pursuing autism exploration or diagnosis, late-realized adults may have a particularly hard time knowing where to turn.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Starting your journey of pursuing an autism diagnosis can be overwhelming and it is often difficult to find a knowledgeable and affirming provider. The step-by-step instructions below will guide you to getting the answers you deserve.

By: Dr. Julie Landry

Whether you are self-diagnosed, autistic-exploring, or pursuing an adult autism evaluation, autistic identification can provide many benefits.

By: Dani Rodwell

AuDHD Assessment. AuDHD test. AuDHD test online… and one of my personally-used favorites, “AuDHD reddit.”

By: NeuroSpark Health

NeuroSpark Health shares how autism is diagnosed, autism characteristics, and strategies that can help you work through associated challenges.

By: By Cat Salladin

Neurodiversity is a concept that recognizes and values the natural variations in human brain functioning. This includes autism, ADHD, dyslexia, OCD, and other differences in neurotypes.

By: Dani Rodwell

If there’s one thing I know about autistic people and ADHD people, comfort is paramount. We do things with our bodies to feel safer, to feel more regulated, to feel less awkward, and sometimes it may even look awkward to others while feeling natural and good to us.

By: Dani Rodwell

The AuDHD experience continues to be a growing conversation about the very multifaceted and nuanced experience of being multiply neurodivergent.

By: NeuroSpark Health

AuDHD is a term that many members of the neurodivergent community use to describe the experience of being both autistic and ADHD. AuDHD is not a clinical term, and it doesn’t appear in the DSM, but it is a lived experience term created by the community that is both short and sweet.

By: Dani Rodwell

AuDHD Assessment. AuDHD test. AuDHD test online… and one of my personally-used favorites, “AuDHD reddit.”

By: NeuroSpark Health

While there are some things that autism and ADHD have in common, there are quite a few ways that they differ from one another.

By: Dani Rodwell

Are you an autistic person with ADHD who struggles with routines? NeuroSpark Health’s Dani Rodwell reveals how her autism and ADHD affect her routines.

By: Jessica Michaels

My autism and ADHD made it harder to recognize and emotionally deal with the fact that these inequities existed.

By: Dr. Julie Landry

Are you looking for a clinical psychologist with expertise in ADULT autism and ADHD in your local area? We know how challenging that can be! In fact, NeuroSpark was started based on our personal experiences and difficulties finding mental health specialists as neurodivergent adults.

By: Julie Landry

If you've been researching adult autism assessment or are in the process of self-diagnosis, you’ve probably seen the free online tests, which include the RAADS-R test.

By: Cat Salladin

When I was a kid, I frequently wondered why I seemed more emotional and sensitive than my peers. I felt deeply distraught when one of my friends was made fun of or hurt, sometimes even more than the friend themselves. And, conversely, I experienced jubilation and excitement that seemed to far exceed what my counterparts displayed.

By: NeuroSpark Health

While autism is typically diagnosed in childhood, many adults are now seeking assessments and diagnoses later in life.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Social anxiety and autism are two experiences that can significantly impact a person's life in a variety of ways. While they share some similarities in terms of social difficulties and anxiety, they are fundamentally different in their nature, origins, and manifestations.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Self-defense mechanisms are essential psychological strategies used by individuals to cope with reality and maintain their self-image. These mechanisms operate subconsciously and vary widely among people.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Recognizing the signs of autism in adults, understanding the impact of masking, exploring the benefits of identification, and considering neurodivergent coaching can provide valuable insights and support.

By: Cat Salladin

Autism and neurodiversity as a whole have garnered significant attention in recent years. Traditional, pathologizing approaches often focus on autism as a condition that needs to be treated or cured.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Autism is a neurotype that can present in many different ways depending on the individual person. Often, autism is seen to create differences in communication, behavior, and social interactions.

By: Cat Salladin

Autism is a neurotype that can present in a variety of ways, often leading to differences in communication, social interactions, and behavior. One significant aspect of autism, especially in women and those assigned female at birth (AFAB), is the phenomenon of masking or camouflaging.

By: Cat Salladin

Historically, autism has been viewed through a pathologizing lens. However, autism is a natural variation in human neurology, encompassing a wide range of traits and characteristics that make each individual unique.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Both autism and BPD have historically been misunderstood and stigmatized, but a neurodiversity-affirming approach offers a more compassionate and inclusive understanding.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Autistic shutdowns are a significant challenge of the autistic experience that is more common than you might think, in both children and adults.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Autistic meltdowns are a significant aspect of the lived experience for many autistic adults. Unlike tantrums, which are often seen in children as a way to get what they want, meltdowns are intense responses to overwhelming situations.

By: NeuroSpark Health

In recent years, the term "tism" has gained popularity as a colloquial and affectionate shorthand for autism. While some may view it as merely a playful abbreviation, others see it as a way to embrace and normalize neurodiverse identities.

By: Cat Salladin

Autism encompasses a range of neurodevelopmental differences that affect communication, behavior, and sensory processing. A key concept within the autistic community that often goes unrecognized by neurotypical perspectives is "autistic inertia."

By: By Cat Salladin

Neurodiversity is a concept that recognizes and values the natural variations in human brain functioning. This includes autism, ADHD, dyslexia, OCD, and other differences in neurotypes.

By: Cat Salladin

Selective mutism (SM) is a complex and often misunderstood experience that is especially common in autistic people and creates unique communication differences, challenges, and needs.

By: Dani Rodwell

When I look up “autism therapists near me,” I’m not at all impressed with the results. I’ve done it before to try to find a therapist and for the purpose of this very blog, I tried again and let out a deep sigh of disappointment once again.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Experiencing autistic meltdowns as an adult can be an intense and recurring challenge in our lives. Autistic meltdowns as an adult, just as autistic meltdowns in children, are sometimes very difficult to predict and manage.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Autism has historically been thought of as a childhood diagnosis, but many adults are also autistic without realizing it until later in life for a variety of reasons.

By: Cat Salladin

Proprioception refers to the body's ability to sense its position, movement, and spatial orientation. While proprioceptive processing operates largely subconsciously in allistic individuals, it can manifest differently in autistic individuals, contributing to variations in sensory experiences.

By: Cat Salladin

In our ever-evolving understanding of human diversity, our understanding of the concept of sensory experiences have improved tremendously in recent years.

By: Cat Salladin

Among the myriad facets of autism, hypoarousal emerges as a phenomenon often overlooked, yet profoundly influential in shaping the lived experiences of autistic individuals.

By: Cat Salladin

Within the expansive autism spectrum, alexithymia emerges as a particularly intriguing phenomenon, offering profound insights into the complexities of emotional processing and expression.

By: Cat Salladin

In our ever-evolving quest for inclusivity and understanding, language serves as a powerful tool in shaping our perceptions of the world and the diverse array of human experiences within it.

By: Cat Salladin

In our contemporary understanding of the autism spectrum, there has been a gradual shift towards embracing neurodiversity—a perspective that recognizes and celebrates the inherent differences in neurological functioning among individuals.

By: Dani Rodwell

If there’s one thing I know about autistic people and ADHD people, comfort is paramount. We do things with our bodies to feel safer, to feel more regulated, to feel less awkward, and sometimes it may even look awkward to others while feeling natural and good to us.

By: Julie Landry

Imagine constantly feeling like you are running on empty, with no spoons left to cope with the demands of daily life. This is what autistic burnout can feel like.

By: Cat Salladin

The question of whether cats can be autistic is a complex one, and research is still ongoing to fully understand the presence of autistic traits in cats.

By: Dr. Julie Landry

Have you ever felt intensely focused on a single interest or task, to the extent that the world around you seems to fade away? Or perhaps you've noticed that when you concentrate on something you're passionate about, it's difficult to switch your attention to anything else.

By: Dani Rodwell

The AuDHD experience continues to be a growing conversation about the very multifaceted and nuanced experience of being multiply neurodivergent.

By: NeuroSpark Health

In the vast and oftentimes overwhelming process of pursuing autism exploration or diagnosis, late-realized adults may have a particularly hard time knowing where to turn.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Reasons for diagnosed autism in females, and why woman pursue autism asssessment in adulthood

By: Tasha Raella

I hope that one day I will live in  a time when more therapists will feel safe enough to disclose their autism to clients and colleagues.

By: NeuroSpark Health

It’s remarkable how many people have suspicions that they might be autistic, but they don’t know how (or don’t feel comfortable) to bring up autism with their therapist.

By: Dani Rodwell

The community wants to know, is my boyfriend autistic?

By: NeuroSpark Health

Recognizing that you’re masking and making the choice to try to remove that mask is a personal decision and a huge step in moving toward a life of authenticity.

By: NeuroSpark Health

By: NeuroSpark Health

Starting your journey of pursuing an autism diagnosis can be overwhelming and it is often difficult to find a knowledgeable and affirming provider. The step-by-step instructions below will guide you to getting the answers you deserve.

By: Dr. Julie Landry

Whether you are self-diagnosed, autistic-exploring, or pursuing an adult autism evaluation, autistic identification can provide many benefits.

By: NeuroSpark Health

By: NeuroSpark Health

The reported autistic male-to-female ratio is 4:1, but that's likely because autism in women is often missed or misdiagnosed. Learn the reasons why and signs to look for.

By: NeuroSpark Health

While there are some things that autism and ADHD have in common, there are quite a few ways that they differ from one another.

By: NeuroSpark

Autism stimming comes in all forms, but what are the most common? Learn about the types of stimming as well as 10 autism stimming examples.

By: NeuroSpark Health

So, is autism a disability? To be honest, it’s tricky and it deserves a much more nuanced conversation. Yes, the technical answer is that autism is a disability. 

By: NeuroSpark Health

Our understanding of autism continues to evolve as we learn more about how autism came to be recognized as a spectrum.

By: NeuroSpark Health

The full impact of autistic masking is not yet publicly understood and continues to be studied, but many actually autistic people have been sharing about their masking experiences, which is incredibly validating for the rest of the community.

By: NeuroSpark Health

NeuroSpark Health shares how autism is diagnosed, autism characteristics, and strategies that can help you work through associated challenges.

By: Dani Rodwell

Are you an autistic person with ADHD who struggles with routines? NeuroSpark Health’s Dani Rodwell reveals how her autism and ADHD affect her routines.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism often have several overlapping characteristics and frequently co-occur. The overlapping traits and similarities are often misunderstood and misinterpreted by healthcare professionals who do not specialize in adult ADHD and autism. 

By: NeuroSpark Health

At-home autism-affirming therapy can be a valuable resource to autistic people in a range of situations. Learn about benefits like specialist access.

By: NeuroSpark Health

"High-functioning" autism in women often goes overlooked. This is more accurately called high-masking. Learn how to identify the traits of high-masking autism.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Autism coaching can be a valuable resource for autistic people looking for guidance and support.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Do I have autism? Many adults can go through life knowing that they have unique traits and experiences, but are realizing later in life that these qualities align with the autism spectrum and begin exploring their neurodivergent identities. Receiving a formal diagnosis is not at all necessary to self-identify as autistic.

By: Dr Julie Landry

Did you know that autism has a male-to-female ratio of 4:1? Learn about 5 overlooked signs of autism in women that can lead to being undiagnosed.

By: Dr Julie Landry

Autism can't be cured or fixed, but it can be affirmed. Learn about 5 life-changing benefits of autism-affirming therapy for adults.

By: Dani Rodwell

I was able to connect the dots on a lot of repetitive behaviors that I have been doing my entire life without even the thought that they were in fact, self-stimulatory. Stims can be very obvious and they can also be very subtle. 

By: Dr Julie Landry

Simply put, autism is characterized by differences in the brain. This can include differences in social-communication, information processing, sensory experiences, and restricted or repetitive patterns..

By: Dr Julie Landry

Studies have shown that autistic people have a higher likelihood of identifying as having a sexual orientation and identity other than heterosexual and cisgender when compared to neurotypical people. 

By: Ama Asmad

As someone with multiple marginalized identities, including long-suspected (though still officially undiagnosed) autism, I’ve constantly reflected on what “self-acceptance” means not just in my own life, but as an objective state.

By: Jackie Schuld, ATR-BC, LPC

Why do autistics need therapy? We don’t NEED it, but it sure as hell helps.

By: Dani Rodwell

The month of April has been historically referred to as Autism Awareness Month. The first   Autism Awareness month began over 50 years ago and initially started out by the Autism Society as National Autistic Children’s Week. This observance soon expanded to Autism Awareness month. 

By: Lara Schaeffer

I remember from a pretty early age as a girl and young woman being aware that it doesn’t seem very easy being a boy…and I remember thinking about this fairly often.

By: Kate Laine-Toner

The benefits of self-discovery through having a diagnosis (either formal or through self-identification) far outweigh the negatives.

By: Tracy Smith

The characteristics of autistic females may be overlooked, their interests in books, animals, or teenage bands thought to be typical interests for their age.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Autism coaching can be a valuable resource for autistic people looking for guidance and support.

By: Dani Rodwell

Autistics and ADHDers often have an extremely tough time with task switching. 

By: NeuroSpark Health

Autism is a neurotype that can present in many different ways depending on the individual person. Often, autism is seen to create differences in communication, behavior, and social interactions.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Reasons for diagnosed autism in females, and why woman pursue autism asssessment in adulthood

By: NeuroSpark Health

The reported autistic male-to-female ratio is 4:1, but that's likely because autism in women is often missed or misdiagnosed. Learn the reasons why and signs to look for.

By: NeuroSpark Health

"High-functioning" autism in women often goes overlooked. This is more accurately called high-masking. Learn how to identify the traits of high-masking autism.

By: Dr Julie Landry

Did you know that autism has a male-to-female ratio of 4:1? Learn about 5 overlooked signs of autism in women that can lead to being undiagnosed.

By: Lara Schaeffer

I remember from a pretty early age as a girl and young woman being aware that it doesn’t seem very easy being a boy…and I remember thinking about this fairly often.

By: Kate Laine-Toner

The benefits of self-discovery through having a diagnosis (either formal or through self-identification) far outweigh the negatives.

By: Jessica Michaels

My autism and ADHD made it harder to recognize and emotionally deal with the fact that these inequities existed.

By: Tracy Smith

The characteristics of autistic females may be overlooked, their interests in books, animals, or teenage bands thought to be typical interests for their age.

By: Vanessa Quinn

NeuroSpark is celebrating Pride by amplifying the voices of neurodivergent LGBTQ+ and gender-diverse community members, like Vanessa Quinn.

By: Jennifer Alumbaugh

NeuroSpark is celebrating Pride by amplifying the voices of neurodivergent LGBTQ+ and gender-diverse community members, like Jennifer Alumbaugh.

By: Fawn Spark

NeuroSpark is celebrating Pride by amplifying the voices of neurodivergent LGBTQ+ and gender-diverse community members, like Fawn Spark.

By: Dr Julie Landry

Studies have shown that autistic people have a higher likelihood of identifying as having a sexual orientation and identity other than heterosexual and cisgender when compared to neurotypical people. 

By: NeuroSpark Health

Recognizing that you’re masking and making the choice to try to remove that mask is a personal decision and a huge step in moving toward a life of authenticity.

By: NeuroSpark Health

The full impact of autistic masking is not yet publicly understood and continues to be studied, but many actually autistic people have been sharing about their masking experiences, which is incredibly validating for the rest of the community.

By: NeuroSpark Health

"High-functioning" autism in women often goes overlooked. This is more accurately called high-masking. Learn how to identify the traits of high-masking autism.

By: Cat Salladin

When we talk about sensitivity, it’s easy to picture someone who’s emotionally fragile, maybe a bit prone to tears, and easily overwhelmed. Oftentimes, the word “sensitive” is used with a negative connotation, or even as an insult.

By: By Cat Salladin

Love languages—those special ways we show and receive affection—are at the heart of any relationship, whether it be a romantic relationship, friendship, or family.

By: Cat Salladin

Twice-exceptional (2e) individuals are those who are both gifted and have a neurodivergent profile, such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, or other learning differences or disabilities. This unique combination creates a complex, often misunderstood experience, particularly for teenagers and adults navigating a world that may not fully understand their capabilities or challenges.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is often discussed within the context of mental health, but its classification as neurodivergent is increasingly recognized. Neurodivergence encompasses a variety of neurological differences, including, but certainly not just limited to autism and ADHD.

By: Cat Salladin

Among the myriad facets of autism, hypoarousal emerges as a phenomenon often overlooked, yet profoundly influential in shaping the lived experiences of autistic individuals.

By: Cat Salladin

The topic of neurodiversity has gained significant traction in recent years, sparking introspection among many individuals who wonder if they fall within its wide and diverse spectrum.

By: Jennifer Alumbaugh

If you’re someone who’s neurodivergent collection includes ADHD like me, chances are you’ve heard one, some, or all of these statements in a variety of settings like school, work, community, and family.

By: Cat Salladin

Neurodiversity celebrates the uniqueness of human brains, recognizing that differences in brain function are natural and valuable. Neurodivergent individuals, including those with conditions like autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and others, contribute to the rich tapestry of human cognition and creativity.

By: Cat Salladin

Neurodiversity is a concept that acknowledges the natural variations in human cognition and neurodevelopment. It recognizes that neurological differences, such as those seen in autism, ADHD, sensory processing disorder, and other conditions, are simply part of the spectrum of human diversity.

By: Cat Salladin

In today's fast-paced world, finding inner peace can sometimes seem like an elusive dream, especially for neurodivergent individuals. Balancing work, family, and personal responsibilities can take a toll on our mental and emotional wellbeing, leaving us feeling stressed and overwhelmed.

By: Dani Rodwell

In the colorful landscape of the neurodivergent community, there exists a multitude of intricate phrases and identities that help us describe who we are. Within this space, there are many different variations of the word “neurodivergent” －neurodistinct, neurowonderful, neurosparkly, neurospicy, neurodefiant, and many more.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Are you curious about your brain's unique wiring? Wondering if you might be neurodivergent? Discovering your unique neurotype can be an empowering journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance.

By: Dr. Julie Landry

Adults with PDA might struggle with tasks that involve change, uncertainty, or external expectations. This frequently leads to difficulties in employment, relationships, and day-to-day functioning.

By: Dani Rodwell

Why neurodiversity affirming practices should apply across all contexts including neurodiversity affirming education, workplaces, and social settings.

By: Dani Rodwell

NeuroSpark cofounder Dani Rodwell shares her experience with autistic burnout and moving away from traditional 9 to 5 work to a more neuroinclusive life.

By: Dani Rodwell

I was an unidentified neurodivergent child who was being unfairly held to neurotypical expectations.

By: Dr Julie Landry

Neurodivergent clients are not getting the care that they need or the care they deserve.

By: Ben VanHook

The language we use within the disability and neurodivergent community is very important.

By: Julie Landry

Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is characterized by an intense, anxiety-fueled resistance to the everyday demands of life. In adults, PDA often presents as an overpowering desire to maintain control over their environment and a tendency to steer clear of tasks that provoke stress.

By: Vee Martin

If you suspect that demand avoidance, PDA, or “pervasive drive for autonomy” may be impacting your life, NeuroSpark Health would feel privileged to support you.

By: Dani Rodwell

NeuroSpark’s co-founder Dani Rodwell shares her informal thoughts about what identity, pride, and intersectionality means to her. Dani cares a lot about authenticity, embracing differences, and celebrating uniqueness﹣ especially during Pride﹣and she supports others to do the same. 

By: Vanessa Quinn

NeuroSpark is celebrating Pride by amplifying the voices of neurodivergent LGBTQ+ and gender-diverse community members, like Vanessa Quinn.

By: Dr Julie Landry

June 18 is Autistic Pride Day, which celebrates pride in the autistic community. Learn 4 ways to show your support and pride in the community.

By: Felíz Felix

NeuroSpark is celebrating Pride by amplifying the voices of neurodivergent LGBTQ+ and gender-diverse community members, like Felíz Felix.

By: Jennifer Alumbaugh

NeuroSpark is celebrating Pride by amplifying the voices of neurodivergent LGBTQ+ and gender-diverse community members, like Jennifer Alumbaugh.

By: Fawn Spark

NeuroSpark is celebrating Pride by amplifying the voices of neurodivergent LGBTQ+ and gender-diverse community members, like Fawn Spark.

By: NeuroSpark Health

By: NeuroSpark Health

Vocal stimming can be a great coping mechanism for autistic people and people with ADHD. Learn about vocal stims and what types there are.

By: NeuroSpark

Autism stimming comes in all forms, but what are the most common? Learn about the types of stimming as well as 10 autism stimming examples.

By: Neurospark Health

What is stimming? Learn about what stimming is and some of the different forms it can take. Discover how healthy stimming can provide comfort.

By: Dani Rodwell

I was able to connect the dots on a lot of repetitive behaviors that I have been doing my entire life without even the thought that they were in fact, self-stimulatory. Stims can be very obvious and they can also be very subtle. 

By: Dr Julie Landry

Stimming isn’t only a feature of the ADHD brain; it’s of course very prevalent for autistic individuals as well. People with either brain style can utilize stimming as a way to soothe anxiety, but ADHD stimming has a more narrowed purpose of increasing focus and assisting with impulse control.

By: Tasha Raella

I hope that one day I will live in  a time when more therapists will feel safe enough to disclose their autism to clients and colleagues.

By: NeuroSpark Health

At-home autism-affirming therapy can be a valuable resource to autistic people in a range of situations. Learn about benefits like specialist access.

By: Dr Julie Landry

Autism can't be cured or fixed, but it can be affirmed. Learn about 5 life-changing benefits of autism-affirming therapy for adults.

By: Dani Rodwell

I was an unidentified neurodivergent child who was being unfairly held to neurotypical expectations.

By: Jackie Schuld, ATR-BC, LPC

Why do autistics need therapy? We don’t NEED it, but it sure as hell helps.

By: Julie Landry

In mental health and trauma, the concept of dorsal vagal shutdown plays a pivotal but often misunderstood role. This physiological response, rooted in the complex workings of the nervous system, can profoundly impact an individual's ability to regulate emotions and navigate stressful situations.

By: NeuroSpark Health

Have you ever wondered why some people seem to handle stress with ease while others become completely overwhelmed? The answer lies in understanding the concept of the window of tolerance. In this blog, we will delve into the depths of the window of tolerance and its impact on our emotional well-being.

By: Dani Rodwell

NeuroSpark cofounder Dani Rodwell shares her experience with autistic burnout and moving away from traditional 9 to 5 work to a more neuroinclusive life.