Frequently Asked Questions
about neurodiversity life coaching
What is a neurodiversity coach?
A neurodiversity coach is a professional that supports individuals who experience the world a bit differently, using a strengths-based, neuro-affirming approach to navigate challenges and leverage unique cognitive styles. Rather than attempting to “fix” behavior, I help to guide my clients towards developing personalized and practical strategies for managing their life, finding their authentic self and establishing a growth and self-advocacy mind-set.
What does neurodivergent mean?
Neurodivergent is a non-medical, umbrella term that means having a brain that develops or functions differently from what’s considered “typical”. The social model of neurodiversity posits there are natural variations in human neurology rather than deficits, often involving unique strengths alongside challenges in areas like social interaction, sensory processing, and focus.
What medical diagnoses are under the neurodivergence umbrella?
Neurodivergence usually includes autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, Tourette’s syndrome/tic disorder, sensory processing disorder, OCD. For my practice, I include mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, brain injury and general creative and eclectic neurotypes. Coaching is not treatment though, so the work we do will be a supplement to any treatment you are receiving, not a substitute.
What are things a neurodiversity coach can help with?
- Discovering and embracing your authentic self (“unmasking”)
- Finding better approaches to succeed at work (or finding a job that is a good fit)
- Stopping negative patterns with relationships (family, friends, work & romantic)
- Preventing or overcoming burnout/stress
- Establishing a plan for better emotional regulation/anger management
- Boosting self-esteem & stopping negative self-talk
- Overcoming creative blocks
- Dissembling the bad habits & patterns that are blocking your progress
- Developing better habits & patterns that help you achieve your goals
- Understanding executive function issues & ways to work smarter, not harder to get things done
- Establishing better boundaries & self-advocacy
- Practicing neuro-informed self-care
What are things a coach cannot help with?
- Mental health diagnosis or treatment
- Making decisions for you or giving advice
- Doing the work/research/job search/etc. for you
- Any counseling or teaching about your physical or mental wellbeing, aside from offering resources for you to explore
How do I know if I need a therapist or a coach?
Choose a therapist if you are seeking a diagnosis, have untreated trauma, are managing mental health conditions (anxiety, depression), or unpacking past issues to feel better. Choose a coach if you are basically functioning, but struggling to achieve specific goals, improve performance, or gain future-focused clarity.
Therapy fixes, coaching accelerates.
It is possible to have both, as long as the therapist and coach work in tandem to provide complementary solutions. This arrangement can be discussed during intake.
What if I'm not sure if coaching is right for me?
My coaching practice adheres to the Code of Ethics of the International Coaching Federation. If we identify during your free consultation that what you are looking for is beyond the scope of what coaching can (and should) be used for, we will not proceed to a coaching contract and I’ll recommend a better resource for you.
Do you only coach neurodivergent women?
I am open to coaching anyone that is open to being coached. The reason my business is focused on coaching neurodivergent women is because my personal experience with my own diagnosis showed me how few woman-focused professionals are out there that start from a place of understanding. I want to be there for other women that are feeling vulnerable, misunderstood and lost, and offer a safe space for them where their lived experience is honored rather than questioned. Coaching itself is nonspecific though, so the only thing I need from a client is their willingness to be coached. If you have that, I am happy to work with you.
