Neurodivergence

About 15-20% of the United States population is neurodivergent, which means their brains work in a different way. Anywhere Wellness, based in Everett and Chelan, Washington; Boise, Idaho; Denver, Colorado; and Jacksonville, Florida, the mental health experts diagnose neurodivergence and design plans to help you thrive. Schedule a virtual telehealth evaluation by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today. 

What is neurodivergence?

Neurodivergence is a term describing a brain that works or develops differently for various reasons. 

People who are neurodivergent may have certain strengths, such as strong memory or the ability to solve complex math problems. But they could also have challenges compared to people with brains that function in a more typical way (neurotypical). 

Which conditions does neurodivergence encompass?

The following are part of the neurodivergence umbrella:

Autism-spectrum disorder (ADHD)

People with ADHD struggle to focus, pay attention for long periods, and sit still. They may make careless mistakes, have difficulty staying organized, interrupt others, and/or make impulsive decisions. 

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)

Autism spectrum disorder affects social interaction. People with autism might be awkward in social situations, lack eye contact or facial expressions, speak in a monotone voice, have restrictive or repetitive behaviors, and have few or no friendships. Some may rock their body, flap their hands, or spin in circles. 

Learning disabilities

Examples of learning disabilities in some neurodivergent individuals include dyscalculia (difficulty with math), dyslexia (difficulty with reading), and dysgraphia (problems with writing). 

Mental health disorders

Certain mental health disorders also fall into the neurodivergent category. Examples include bipolar disorder, social anxiety disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

Tourette syndrome

People with Tourette syndrome struggle with uncontrollable tics, which are body movements or vocal sounds. 

Sensory processing disorder (SPD)

Sensory processing disorder is characterized by being under-responsive or overwhelmed by sensory experiences like touch, sounds, sights, smells, tastes, and movements.

How is neurodivergence diagnosed?

Diagnosing neurodivergence involves a psychiatric evaluation with your Anywhere Wellness specialist. They discuss your mental health history, symptoms, lifestyle, moods, thoughts, emotions, and goals to develop an effective treatment. 

You might also be a candidate for genetic testing to determine how your genes may affect certain medications. 

How is neurodivergence managed?

There’s no known way to prevent or cure neurodivergence. However, treatments can help you better manage the condition to achieve success at work, at school, or in relationships. The Anywhere Wellness experts offer:

• Medication management
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Interpersonal psychotherapy 
• Educational therapy
• Family therapy
• Social skills training
• Lifestyle change counseling
• Social support
• Support groups referrals

Your provider works with you to establish healthy routines that help you flourish.

Schedule a telehealth neurodivergence evaluation at Anywhere Wellness by phone or request one online today to determine if you are neurodivergent or need help managing a previously diagnosed condition.