Neurodiversity. As an advocate for persons living with intellectual and developmental differences, and as a parent to Katarina, a teenager with Down syndrome, I enjoy supporting clients, parents, and loved ones on this unique journey. I am especially invested in creating a world --

where unconditional love and belonging are experienced by all. 

Neurodiversity is defined broadly and can include the unique ways persons living with ADHD, ASD, and other learning differences communicate, process, and respond to the environment and people around them.

Person-first language is important to me (Rahman, 2019). Thus, I invite you to avoid using language which focuses solely on impairments or participation limitations. "People are not their diagnoses nor their disability, and how we talk about and attend to this population needs continued advocacy and advancements in inclusive care practices, which impart value for the whole person, beyond their disability type" (Piland, 2025). An example of person-first language would be: 'Sam, the bright boy who may become over-stimulated when...'. Ultimately, my hope is that a diagnosis is never used to define anyone's place in the world or used to refer to them.

Obtaining a Diagnosis. Although the current diagnostic criteria, based on the DSM-V (APA, 2022) has its limitations, it can serve as a resource for understanding the unique ways a person might need support. Obtaining a professional diagnosis for acquiring the appropriate and necessary supports to achieve one's fullest potential is a part of the process. My training, informed by a person-in-context perspective, allows for considerations of the nuances that come with a person's strengths and functional needs. Nevertheless, diagnosis facilitates obtaining professional support services, and in many cases, serves as the vehicle for coverage and reimbursement of such services under insurance.

Co-occurring Diagnoses. Another limitation of the DSM-V is the complexity of co-occurring symptoms and diagnoses. This is where having a trained professional on your team can be invaluable. The following is a useful resource for helping clients recognize when they might meet the criteria for more than one diagnosis (e.g., ADHD and ASD). https://neurodivergentinsights.com/adhd-vs-autism/  At times, individuals may not meet diagnostic criteria but still have functional needs. My desire is to lead clients to functional supports for optimal living, regardless of meeting the strict definitions for any diagnosis. I am here to help you and your family tease through the diagnostic puzzle together!