All brains are beautiful
You are welcome here just as you are.
What do you mean when you say neurodivergent?
Neurodivergent simply means that a person’s brain works differently than what is considered “typical.” It is not a diagnosis and it is a neutral term. Neurodiversity is a social justice framework from which to understand how various human brains function. A neurodiversity framework believes that diversity in human cognition and processing is normal and challenges the medical model that views some divergences and disabilities as disorders. This is one of the reasons we choose to be an out of network provider, so that our client’s have control over what diagnosis is shared with the world. Neurodivergent refers to someone who’s brain functions different than a “typical” person. Neurotypical refers to a person who’s brain functions within societally accepted standards. Often people use neurodivergent as a euphemism for Autism and ADHD. However, we believe that all “disorders” are just neurotypes that need different kinds or supports rather than “treatment” to “fix them”.
why it matters…
While people who are neurodivergent certainly experience mental distress, so often their symptoms are misunderstood and pathologized. The lack of awareness of how they operate can itself cause anxiety or depression. When we look at things through a neuro-affirming lens we start to questions the systems around us and how they are impacting people. Understanding that all brains work differently requires us to accommodate, adjust our expectations, and shift the ways things work.
Our Approach
All our clinicians live in the neurospicy world and have tons of experience working with neurodivergent folk. We are committed to creating a safe sensory environment for our clients and understand that not all approaches work for all clients. We tailor all therapy modalities to our individual clients and do not believe in prescriptive treatments. Our therapists don’t just work on coping skills, they strive to help create systems of sustainable support so that you can live your life the way to want to, not the way the world has made you.
Our Values
At Kaleidoscope, we are:
Anti behavioral modalities or any modality that asks the client to change.
Constantly evaluating our own therapeutic practices and unlearning and relearning what works for our clients.
Committed to advocacy for neurodivergent folks in our communities.
Committed to learning from people in the communities we serve even if they are “professionals".
Common Questions
Can my therapist diagnose me?
Our therapist’s can informally diagnosis all of clients and they have to have a diagnosis on file if you want to submit for out of network reimbursement with your insurance. Unfortunately, our therapist’s cannot give you a formal diagnosis. That has to be done through educational, psychological, or neuropsychological testing. However, we can walk you through the testing process.
Do you provide ABA therapy?
No, and we don’t work with people who engage in ABA (applied behavioral analysis). There is so much research that shows the harm of ABA. People from inside and outside the Autistic community have advocated that ABA can cause long term trauma. If you want to learn more please read this article. All of our work is non-compliance based and grounded in understanding that neuronormative standards are not the best way. Please reach out if you have questions.
What if I don’t have a formal diagnosis of a neurotype that is neurodivergent?
That is completely fine! I work with people who are formally diagnosed and self-diagnosed. The only reason I feel the need to have a diagnosis is if, 1) it would make you feel better or 2) we need to formally request accommodations which unfortunately still requires a diagnosis.