Guest blog post by Lisa Smith
Do you often wonder why you have a hard time remembering what was said in a conversation even though you’ve tried your hardest to focus?
Do you struggle to look people in the eye or easily read their faces?
Do you find that you are feeling lost in social situations in other ways?
If so, you may be experiencing some type of neurodivergent disorder like ADHD or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). If you want to be assessed for Autism, our caring Houston Austim therapists can meet with you and determine if you are on the spectrum or whether something else may be going on.
What is neurodivergence?
A common term that I am seeing in therapy and in social media lately is “neurodivergence” which is certainly a mouthful, and some may not fully understand what that term even means as it is so commonly used and less commonly explained in any real way which can lead to even more frustration and confusion.
Let’s talk a bit more about what this word is. Neurodivergence means that there is some difference in your brain’s biology. All brains are unique, right? Well, this also relates to several recognized disorders, two of which I will focus on in this blog post Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder and Autism Spectrum Disorder. Specifically, how these disorders are different and alike. So often it can be so hard to tell for sure if it is one, the other, or even both! Katy Higgins created a great Venn diagram to compare the differences and similarities .
What do ADHD and Autism Have in common?
People with ADHD and autism both can have issues with certain fabrics, textures, or sounds, for example, a scratchy shirt or the texture of oatmeal. They both have unique ways of learning as well as creative thinking. People with these disorders are also well known for being very curious about the topics they are interested in.
Many in the community would call a topic they are intensely interested in their “special interest”. When like-minded neurodivergent people find each other there is usually a fury of conversation comparing knowledge with lots of excitement at finding a person as passionate about that topic as they are. While some may see these issues as challenges it is really what makes a person unique! Creative thinking and people who learn differently are what make this world a great place to live. Honoring our differences is what makes everyone special.
How you can tell the difference between ADHD and Autism.
· People with ADHD have trouble in social interactions because of impulse control problems and inattention, whereas people with autism tend to want direct communication and connection with the person with Autism’s special interests rather than uninteresting topics.
· People with ADHD prefer movement or “stimming” to aid in focus whereas in people with Autism, the stimming is used for stimulation or soothing.
· People with ADHD often can respond quickly in a crisis whereas people with Autism do better with clear expectations and directions especially when presented with a stressful situation.
These examples are only just a small selection of the ways that neurodivergent people are unique both with their strengths and challenges. The key to working with these disorders is figuring out how your brain works and finding strategies to work within a neurotypical world. Know that you are far from alone and therapists at Wilson Counseling in Texas are ready and willing to help you navigate these specific challenges and discover your uniqueness with you!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Lisa Smith, LPC, is a compassionate therapist offering support to adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Specializing in trauma-informed care, she integrates modalities like EMDR, CBT, and Gestalt, addressing issues such as body image, eating disorders, abuse, trauma, and relationship dynamics. Lisa values the mind/body connection, providing both in-person and telehealth options. Her diverse expertise includes LGBTQ+ communities and individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities. Beyond her professional life, Lisa, married for 10 years, appreciates the importance of unconditional love. To schedule an appointment with Lisa, contact Wilson Counseling today.
OTHER THERAPY SERVICES WE OFFER IN HOUSTON, TX
In addition to Autism Therapy, we have other mental health services that we offer at our Houston, TX counseling office. Our services are available for adults, children, and teens. For individuals, we offer Anxiety Treatment, Couples and Marriage Therapy, Divorce Counseling, Eating Disorder Therapy, School and College Counseling, Perinatal and Postpartum Treatment, and Infertility Counseling. As well as Trauma Therapy, PTSD Treatment, EMDR Therapy, and LGBTQ+ Counseling. Our caring therapists also offer Family Therapy, Parenting Counseling, Teen Counseling, Career Counseling, and LPC Supervision. All of these services are also available through Online Counseling throughout Texas.
If you’re ready to get started, please contact Wilson Counseling today.