Neurodivergent Affirming Therapy

Anxiety Anxiety is a common human emotion characterized by excessive worry and fear, often accompanied by physical symptoms like restlessness and difficulty concentrating. When anxiety becomes overwhelming and interferes with daily life, it may be time to get additional support.

Depression Depression shows as ongoing sadness, hopelessness, and losing interest in activities once enjoyed. Symptoms differ significantly and can disrupt daily life, relationships, and overall health. It’s important to know that depression can be treated. With the right support and help, people can feel better and reconnect with life.

Self-Harm Self-harm is a complex behavior involving intentional self-injury to cope with emotional pain. It can take forms like cutting, burning, or hitting, often in response to sadness, anxiety, or anger. Individuals may feel temporary relief, but guilt and shame often follow, creating emotional turmoil. Understanding the underlying factors is essential for support and recovery. Leslie employs a non-judgmental approach in assisting clients in understanding how this behavior is functioning for them and assisting in learning and practicing alternative, more sustainable coping skills.

Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder  Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is an eating disorder marked by the avoidance of certain foods, resulting in nutritional deficiencies and weight loss. Individuals may show extreme pickiness or fear of negative health effects from specific foods, leading to limited diets and social issues at mealtimes. Unlike typical eating disorders, ARFID is driven by sensory sensitivities and anxiety, not body image concerns. Addressing ARFID is essential for improving eating habits and overall health. Treatment typically involves a multi-faceted approach, including medical support and personalized nutritional and therapeutic interventions.

Meltdowns Managing meltdowns involves understanding their triggers and developing effective coping strategies. Approaching meltdowns with empathy and understanding can help guide individuals through their experiences, empowering them to manage their emotions positively and constructively.

Sensory Profile and Accomodations A sensory profile assesses an individual's sensory preferences and sensitivities. Understanding sensory processing allows caregivers and educators to create tailored accommodations. This personalized approach enhances participation, learning, and well-being.

Life Course Planning Life course transition planning supports neurodivergent individuals through significant life stages by identifying personal goals and necessary steps to achieve them. It emphasizes building a supportive network of family, educators, and service providers for successful transitions. This approach empowers individuals to take charge of their future, promoting holistic personal development and resilience.

Self-Esteem Poor self-esteem plagues so many and prevents us from being able to advocate for ourselves and make choices that fulfill us. Counseling can help get to the root of low self-esteem and begin to identify and replace negative self-talk and self-concept with a more accurate and positive view of self, boosting confidence​ along the way.

Encopresis Is encopresis affecting you or a loved one? This condition, marked by involuntary stool passage, can be tough for children and caregivers alike. Fortunately, therapy offers effective solutions to manage these challenges. My specialized approach addresses emotional and physical factors behind encopresis using a compassionate, evidence-based method tailored to individual needs. I also support parents with effective strategies to nurture progress.