Neurodiversity and Neurodivergence Guide

Neurodiversity and Neurodivergence: A Sneak Peek

What do these words actually mean? People think, learn, communicate, regulate emotions, process sensory information, and experience the world in different ways. Neurodiversity is the term used to describe this natural variation across the human population — and it includes everybody.

We've put together a new free guide unpacking what neurodiversity and neurodivergence really mean, why the language matters, and how to support the neurodivergent people in your life. Here's a look at what's inside.

Neurodiversity vs. neurodivergent — what's the difference?

Neurodiversity refers to the full range of differences in how human brains develop and function. A community containing autistic people, people with ADHD, people with learning disorders and neurotypical people is neurodiverse.

Neurodivergent, on the other hand, is a non-medical, umbrella term that may describe an individual whose cognitive, developmental, sensory, emotional or behavioural functioning differs from prevailing social expectations — because of one diagnosis, several diagnoses, or a pattern of differences that hasn't yet been formally assessed.

Is neurodivergence a diagnosis?

No. Neurodivergence isn't listed in the DSM or ICD. It's a term a person may choose to identify with — but it doesn't replace a clinical assessment when diagnostic clarification is needed. The guide walks through exactly when a formal diagnosis can help, from school and workplace adjustments to accessing the right supports.

Can strengths and disability coexist?

Yes — and this is one of the guide's key themes. A person may be highly intelligent, articulate or professionally successful and still experience disability. They may perform brilliantly in their area of expertise while finding everyday tasks like initiating routines, regulating emotions or tolerating sensory environments genuinely difficult. Outward achievement doesn't automatically mean low support needs.

Why language matters

Some people prefer identity-first language ("autistic person," "ADHD person"), while others prefer person-first language ("person with autism," "person with ADHD"). The guide explains both approaches and why the most respectful option is simply to ask.

Practical ways to support a neurodivergent person

The full guide includes a detailed list of practical, everyday strategies — from offering predictable routines and written information to allowing movement and checking in on what actually helps. Support should always be individualised, since what works for one neurodivergent person may not work for another.

Want the full picture?

This is just a glimpse — the complete guide also covers what neurodivergent means (and doesn't mean), whether it's linked to giftedness, and when a professional assessment might be worth considering.

👉 Download the full Neurodiversity and Neurodivergence guide — free.

Redefini Therapies provides psychological assessment and therapy for children, adolescents and adults, with a focus on autism, ADHD, intellectual functioning, learning, executive functioning and emotional wellbeing.

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