As a psychologist, I often hear clients say, “I’ve always felt different — like my brain works at a different speed to everyone else’s.” Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental condition that begins in childhood and continues into adulthood. While it can create real challenges in daily life, many people with ADHD also bring remarkable creativity, energy,...
Someone at the next table is chewing their lunch. For some this is just something that happens in the background, but for someone with misophonia, it can trigger an immediate surge of emotion. They might need to leave the room. This is not because they are being too sensitive. It is a condition that affects the brain. Misophonia is a condition...
If you’re raising a child with PDA, you’ve probably had those moments where even the smallest request seems to set off a storm. “Put your shoes on.” “Brush your teeth.” “It’s time to go.” For kids with PDA, these everyday instructions don’t just feel like simple reminders—they hit as demands, pushing hard against their need for control. When they’re already on edge, even a...
Imagine yourself in a room full of people speaking, exchanging glances, and effortlessly weaving in and out of conversations. It's like you're on another wavelength, the humour doesn't strike home, and everybody else is privy to social rules that are difficult for you to grasp. For many neurodivergent individuals, this is a reality many live with every day. The Neurobiology of...
Have you ever stared at your to-do list, feeling completely stuck, unable to begin even though you know exactly what needs doing? Do you find yourself sitting at your desk, thinking about starting a task, yet somehow hours pass by with nothing accomplished? Perhaps you've experienced the frustration of watching deadlines approach while feeling powerless to overcome the invisible barrier...
For those on the autism spectrum and with other neurological differences, the world can often be an intense sensory experience. Everyday sights, sounds, smells, textures and tastes that may go unnoticed by neurotypical individuals can be amplified and overwhelming for neurodivergent people. This sensory overload can lead to meltdowns, shutdowns, and a desperate need to stim (self-stimulatory behaviour) to regain...
