Neurodivergence describes the natural variation in how human brains process, perceive, and respond to the world.
“Neurodivergent” means “different brain,” and was coined in 1998 by Judy Singer, an Australian sociologist, to acknowledge that everyone’s brain develops in a unique way, bequeathing unique sets of strengths, abilities, and challenges to individuals. It is a non-medical and non-pathologising term to accept that different brains (which occur in 15 to 20% of the population) may handle the same tasks differently–and this isn’t something to “fix,” but to understand and support.
Another definition that has emerged for psychologists and educators describes neurodiversity as “within-individuals” as opposed to “between-individuals.” One way to understand this meaning of neurodiversity is to look at cognitive tests: A neurotypical brain may produce “flatter” distribution results across different cognitive abilities whereas a neurodiverse one produces a “spiky profile” that deviates more from normal distribution.
The Neurodivergent Umbrella
Neurodiversity typically encompasses ADHD, autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia or Developmental
Coordination Disorder (DCD), Tourette syndrome (TS), dyscalculia and dysgraphia. Some mental health practitioners have started including giftedness, Complex Trauma, traumatic brain injuries, and DSM conditions under the umbrella as well.
With proper understanding and support, anyone under the umbrella can still flourish and thrive. Some of the most exceptional famous people in history or in the news right now have been suspected or confirmed neurodivergent.
Gifted Minds provides a safe space to receive counselling and therapy that embraces and celebrates this.
