Autism (Autism Spectrum)

Autistic individuals experience the world in ways that can differ from the neurotypical majority, often with heightened sensory experiences and unique ways of engaging socially and emotionally. Autistic people may focus deeply on specific interests, think in patterns, and may express themselves in nontraditional ways. Their cognitive and emotional processing is an inherent part of their identity, contributing to a rich diversity of perspectives, creativity, and talent.

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)

People with ADHD experience heightened energy, creativity, and an ability to think in dynamic, non-linear ways. They may have challenges with attention regulation, time management, and organization, but these differences can also fuel innovation, rapid problem-solving, and a unique ability to multi-task and think outside the box. ADHD is simply a different approach to processing and interacting with the world, full of strengths when understood and supported.

Dyslexia

Dyslexia is a difference in the way the brain processes written language. People with dyslexia might struggle with reading fluently or spelling words, but they often have strong visual-spatial reasoning skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. Dyslexia reflects the brain's unique approach to information processing, highlighting diverse strengths, including adaptability, out-of-the-box thinking, and resilience in the face of challenges.

Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder)

Individuals with dyspraxia may experience challenges with motor coordination, making physical tasks like writing or sports more difficult. However, dyspraxia is not a limitation; it is a different way the brain organizes movement. People with dyspraxia often develop alternative strategies for movement and demonstrate persistence, creativity, and adaptability, excelling in environments that support their unique needs.

Dyscalculia

Dyscalculia involves differences in how individuals understand and process numerical concepts, often making tasks like arithmetic or number-related reasoning challenging. However, people with dyscalculia may excel in other cognitive areas such as creative problem-solving, critical thinking, and abstract reasoning. Their neurotype reflects a different strength in navigating and interpreting the world.

Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)

SPD describes differences in how the brain processes sensory information, which can lead to either hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity to sensory stimuli. People with SPD may find certain lights, sounds, or textures overwhelming or seek intense sensory input. These sensory preferences are part of the brain's natural wiring and contribute to unique ways of experiencing and engaging with the environment. People with SPD often have heightened sensory awareness and a different relationship with the world around them.

Tourette Syndrome

Tourette Syndrome is characterized by involuntary tics (movements or sounds), but it also reflects a neurotype that comes with a distinctive way of processing and responding to stimuli. People with Tourette's may have challenges with motor control, but these tics are just a part of their expression. Many people with Tourette's demonstrate resilience, creativity, and have an ability to thrive in dynamic or high-energy environments, as they navigate the world in ways that may appear unconventional but are deeply authentic.

Mental Health Conditions (e.g. Depression, Anxiety, OCD)

While not always categorized under neurodivergence, certain mental health conditions overlap, particularly when they impact cognitive and emotional regulation, often in the context of ADHD or autism.

Every neurotype is seen as an important part of human diversity, with its own challenges and strengths. The emphasis is on creating inclusive environments that support all individuals, understanding that everyone has a unique and valuable way of thinking, learning, and interacting with the world.

Empower Neurodiversity recognises that certain conditions may overlap with neurodivergence such as CFS/ME, long Covid, eating difficulties, learning difficulties, sensory processing issues, mood and anxiety difficulties, autoimmune conditions, and other associated conditions that may require long term planning and management.