Finding a Highly Specialized and Holistic Therapist for ADHD & Autism
It can be hard, yet important, to find a therapist who understands the daily reality of life in systems and environments that were not designed for neurotypical individuals. It can be a huge relief, knowing that your concerns will be understood by someone who has a broad range of lived experience in this area, and you will not need to educate the very therapist who is supposed to be in the role of supporting you.
In searching for a therapist to support a neurodivergent individual or family member, it is helpful to seek the support of a provider who understands the terminology, daily nuances, challenges, co-occurring conditions, and the broad variety of resources available to support you and your family. It can be important to partner with a mental health provider who is aware of the importance of addressing any underlying medical issues that may be playing a role in mental health symptoms, and can guide you toward collaborating with a functional doctor or other specialist for additional support. From connecting you with specialists and organizations, to books or podcasts, to guiding you through navigating the school system, being exposed to a broad variety of resources to draw support from as you navigate your journey can make all the difference.
For parents who are facing challenges that are sometimes dismissed by well intentioned family, friends, or providers, it is helpful to find a provider who understands that picky eating is not always just a phase, and, in the case of Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) or PANS/PANDAS, an individual may benefit from the additional support of a specialized professional. In situations with children who have an extreme drive for autonomy, are resistant to every day demands, or very sensitive to redirection, it may be important to identify whether sensory issues, Pervasive Drive for Autonomy (PDA) or Rejection Sensitivity Disorder (RSD) are playing a role, and to adjust the therapeutic approach accordingly. Neurodivergence can place additional strain on a family system, and often, the entire family can benefit from support, including siblings who may fade into the background as they try to allow their parents to grace to focus on family members who seemingly need greater resources. Having a provider who can help parents learn to work together as a unit, can also provide tremendous relief to the family system as a whole.
At Rona Weiss Counseling, LLC, all these variables are taken into consideration, so that each client can be provided with the most customized support for themselves or their family. If you are seeking a provider in the State of Florida, please reach out to rona@ronaweisscounseling.com for support for you or your family.
