Resources / Referrals

Healing is never one-size-fits-all. Sometimes, moving forward means gathering additional tools and support—especially when it comes to physical health, sensory integration, or specialized mental health care. This page offers a curated collection of areas to explore as you continue your journey.

Think of it as a gentle guide—a list of possibilities that you can discuss with your care team, follow your curiosity toward, or simply tuck away until the time is right. It’s not medical advice, but it is offered with care and intention to support your whole self as you consult with adjacent professionals.

Commonly Overlooked Medical Conditions in ADHD and Autism

Many neurodivergent people experience physical symptoms that often go undiagnosed or misunderstood in conventional medical settings. If you resonate with any of the conditions below, consider seeking out a neurodivergent-affirming provider who understands how these issues can intersect with ADHD or Autism:

• Chronic digestion issues (e.g., diarrhea, constipation)
• Stress-related IBS
• Joint hypermobility / Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)
• Histamine intolerance or mast cell activation issues
• POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome)
• Epilepsy
• Sleep disorders (e.g., insomnia, circadian rhythm disruption)
• Appetite / eating differences (e.g., food avoidance, difficulty with certain textures)

Being heard, believed, and supported medically is a foundational step toward true well-being.

• Sensory Processing Support

If the sensory differences we discussed in Module 4 feel especially relevant to your daily life, you may benefit from support from an occupational therapist (OT)—particularly one with experience in sensory processing for your particular age group.

While most OTs are trained to work with children, the underlying frameworks can be incredibly helpful at any age. I recommend The Out-of-Sync Child by Carol Stock Kranowitz—not just for parents, but for anyone seeking to better understand their sensory profile. Identifying your unique sensory needs can help you build practical, personalized accommodations for your daily life.

• Mental Health Specialty Referrals

Sometimes, general therapy isn’t enough. If you’re navigating specific mental health concerns, here are a few targeted approaches that can help—especially when combined with neurodivergent-affirming support:

• Suicidal Thoughts & Self-Harm

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a life-changing, evidence-based model developed by a neurodivergent woman. It’s practical, compassionate, and especially effective for people who feel things deeply. If safety is a concern for you, please prioritize this work. Healing can’t happen until you know your life matters.

• Trauma

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is widely regarded as a powerful trauma treatment that works with both the mind and the body. Many people report significant healing in a relatively short time.
For children or those seeking a more structured approach, Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT) is another well-researched option.

• OCD

The gold standard for OCD treatment is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Exposure and Response Prevention (CBT with ERP). This approach helps reduce compulsions by building your capacity to tolerate uncertainty. Look for a provider who understands nervous system regulation and sensory needs for best results.

• Anxiety and Depression

Many people find success with a blended approach: mindfulness, somatic (body-based) work, and one or more of the following:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

However, the most important factor—by far—is your relationship with your therapist. Up to 40% of therapeutic outcomes are determined by the quality of that connection. Look for someone who understands your intersectional identity and works with you, not on you.