Neurodiversity Resources
Melissa Jackson, M.Ed., Neurodiversity Advocate
For years, neurodivergent people have been misunderstood, underestimated and made to feel ashamed of their differences. It’s past time to leave behind the outdated stigmas and stereotypes associated with neurodivergence that hold people back from fulfilling their highest potential.
The research is starting to catch up to what many of us have known for years: this is a diverse community of exceptional individuals with so much to contribute when they are supported and celebrated instead of being forced to conform to the way things have always been done in a neuronormative society.
What does it mean to be Neurodivergent?
Here’s the truth: There is no such thing as a normal or abnormal brain, but simply differences in neurowiring. Every human brain is as unique as our fingerprints. We can respectfully acknowledge these differences according to two categories: neurotypical and neurodivergent. Neurodivergent individuals may be given a broad range of labels from dyslexic to ADHD to autistic, to name a few. These are just some examples of different neurowirings that can exist under the neurodivergent umbrella.
Growing up as an undiagnosed dyslexic child with ADHD, I took on so much of the messaging about what was WRONG with me rather than what was right. Once I became an educator and then a parent to two neurodivergent children, I decided that it was time to get involved and change the narrative in this community by pursuing my Masters in Cognitive Diversity in Education, where I have been on the front lines of change.
Services
Support for ADHD Moms of Neurodivergent Kids
I support families by first supporting mothers. Research shows that when we support mothers from a strength-based approach neurodivergent children naturally benefit. From a holistic lens, I honor the individual gifts and talents along with the areas of needed support. When we work together, you’ll be provided with the resources and strategies you need to show up for yourself as an ADHD mom so you may better show up for your child.
Support For Neurodivergent Adults
Millions of neurodivergent adults grew up in an outdated system that marginalized them and their gifts, and we’re all still experiencing the repercussions of that today. I believe no one should have to walk this path alone, which is why I work with my adult clients to reframe neurodiversity and develop actionable solutions to thriving and rising in a neuronormative culture.
Strength-Based Strategies & Approaches
I work with all of my clients through a strength-based lens, regardless of age. Every person has a unique combination of strengths and weaknesses, and the key is to acknowledge and lead with those strengths first. This is the key to appropriately supporting challenges, while also building confidence and ushering in you and your child’s greatest potential.
TESTIMONIALS:
“I learned so much more about my child through these practices. We have connected even more deeply. My child seems more regulated and focused and therefore more receptive”.
“Applying the strength-based strategies helps in our home to avoid frustration and pushback. Working with what my child enjoys and is comfortable doing makes such a difference.”
”The strength-based strategies gave me new approaches and I felt proactive in approaching situations that were met with resistance in the past. These strategies helped me feel calmer and remain solution orientated.”
Could Your Child Be (2e)?
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