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Writer's pictureRachel at Taking Care Counselling

Receiving a diagnosis of ADHD or Autism

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thinking about a neurodivergent diagnosis

The path to realising you or a loved one may be neurodivergent is not always easy, and can bring up all sorts of emotions:


  • Relief that you have some answers

  • The need to find out more information

  • Denial of your diagnosis

  • Reluctance to accept a "label"

  • Scared of other people's judgement

  • Grief for a previously-imagined neurotypical future

  • Anger that no-one else picked this up or provided support

  • Sadness that some of your struggles were preventable

  • Happiness that you are not alone

  • Understanding that you are not broken, your neurotype is just different

  • Wondering what support is out there


It's normal to experience a whole range of different emotions, whether it's you receiving a diagnosis of autism or ADHD, or someone in your family. It can be overwhelming for all concerned. Maybe you feel scared about the future, lost, confused.


Some people who are late diagnosed may have reached this point after getting a diagnosis for their own children and recognising similar traits in themselves. They may feel let down by caregivers for not getting a diagnosis for them earlier in life, or unsupported by family members.


Some people just don't know what to think about a diagnosis.



Remember a diagnosis doesn't define you: you are still the same person you've always been.


A diagnosis is just a tool to help you understand your unique challenges and strengths and find support to help you thrive.


It's okay to take the time you need to process your feelings about the diagnosis.


As an ND-aware therapist I can work with you every step of the way whilst you find your voice and embrace your unique neurodiversity. I understand that every person is an individual and will tailor therapy to your unique needs and preferences.


Whether you are:

  • just starting to look into neurodivergence and believe this could be you or a family member

  • have received a late diagnosis and are wondering what might have been

  • have decided that you don't want a diagnosis or label but want to understand yourself better;

Feel free to book a free 15-minute Zoom call with me to discuss what you would like to get from therapy, asks any questions you may have, and see if you'd like us to work together.



Take care,

Rachel



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