In part one or this two part series, discover what “neurodivergent” means and how a strengths-based approach can support ADHD, autism, and other brain-based differences. Learn inclusive ways to respond, organize, and design environments that nurture your strengths and promote success at home or work.
Supporting Neurodivergent Strengths Through Organization
As a Professional Organizer who specializes in ADHD and hoarding for both home and office organizing, I aim to support and empower the neurodivergent community — people who experience a wide range of neurological and cognitive differences.
What Does “Neurodivergent” Mean?
The term neurodivergent is a non-medical umbrella term. It comes from the social model of neurodiversity, which celebrates brain differences instead of labeling them as “deficits.”
The idea was introduced in the late 1990s by Australian sociologist Judy Singer, who wanted to replace deficit-based language with one that recognized neurological variation as part of human diversity.
Since then, neurodiversity has grown into a global movement — supported by self-advocates and researchers who highlight that differences in attention, learning, and sensory processing are natural and valuable variations.
Examples of Neurodivergent Conditions
People may identify as neurodivergent for many different reasons. Common examples include the following:
- Autism – A developmental difference that affects communication, social interaction, and sensory processing.
- ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) – A brain-based condition that affects attention, impulse control, and energy regulation.
- Tourette’s Syndrome – A neurological condition involving involuntary movements or sounds called tics. These can vary in frequency and intensity.
- Dyslexia: A learning difference affecting reading, spelling, and word recognition.
- Dyspraxia: Impacts coordination, movement, and motor planning.
- Dyscalculia: Affects understanding of numbers and math concepts.
- Dysgraphia: Involves difficulty with writing, spelling, and organizing thoughts on paper.
- Meares-Irlen Syndrome: Visual processing difference causing discomfort or distortion when reading due to light sensitivity.
- Hyperlexia: Advanced word reading ability that may appear earlier than typical, often paired with challenges in comprehension or social communication.
- Synaesthesia: A sensory trait where one sense triggers another, such as seeing colors when hearing music or associating numbers with specific hues.
Some people also include conditions like OCD, bipolar disorder, and dissociative differences under the neurodivergent umbrella — though not everyone in these groups identifies that way.
Neurodivergence can also be acquired through trauma, such as PTSD, brain injuries, or long-term stress responses. In these cases, people may experience changes in cognition, attention, or emotional regulation that align with neurodivergent traits.
🧠 Like fingerprints, no two brains are exactly alike.
Identity, Language, and Respect
Not everyone with a diagnosis identifies as neurodivergent, and not everyone who identifies as neurodivergent has a diagnosis.
As Dr. Boxley explained in Forbes, “You can choose to identify yourself as neurodivergent, but you should not unilaterally assign other people the label. Not all individuals with a diagnosis like autism or ADHD self-identify as neurodivergent, and there’s no standard for a ‘neurotypical brain.’”
When someone shares that they identify as neurodivergent, the most respectful approach is to acknowledge their experience, use inclusive language, and respond with empathy and curiosity.
5 Supportive Ways to Respond When Someone Shares They Are Neurodivergent
It’s okay to feel unsure of what to say — what matters most is kindness and genuine respect.
1. Acknowledge their experience
Validate their identity and thank them for trusting you.
“Thank you for sharing that with me. I appreciate your openness.”
2. Express support
Show that you’re open to learning and helping.
“I’m here for you. If you ever want to talk or if there’s anything I can do to support you, please let me know.”
3. Ask for preferences
“Is there anything I should be aware of or specific ways I can support you?”
4. Educate yourself and reduce stigma
“I’d love to learn more about your experiences and how I can be a better ally. Do you have any resources or recommendations?”
5. Avoid assumptions and stereotypes
Each person’s neurotype is different — listen with curiosity, not comparison.
Environmental Adaptations for Neurodivergent Support
In the Workplace
CTI Working Environments suggests a range of supportive adaptations that can be tailored to each person’s preferences. You can also adapt many of these strategies for your home or home office.
- Sound management: Add acoustic panels or soft materials to reduce sensory stress.
- Lighting & color: Choose soft tones, natural light, and earth colors to support focus.
- Spatial organization: Create clear boundaries and decluttered zones to help with cognitive processing.
- Materials: Avoid harsh patterns or intense colors; introduce calming natural elements like plants or water.
- Tools & cues: Offer written instructions, visual reminders, and tech aids for structure.
At Home or in Organizing Sessions
As the owner of Julie’s Organizing Services, I often recommend:
- Visualizing and planning your goals
- Designing calm, uncluttered spaces that minimize overwhelm.
- Breaking tasks into small, achievable steps.
- Scheduling based on natural energy levels and focus patterns.
- Using visual cues (labels, baskets, colors) to simplify daily routines.
- Practicing mindful pauses or relaxation between tasks.
These approaches reflect strengths-based organizing — building systems that work with your brain, not against it.
Final Thoughts: Embracing Neurodivergent Potential
Every neurodivergent individual has a unique set of strengths, challenges, and ways of interacting with their environment. By approaching organizing and communication with empathy, flexibility, and respect, we can create homes and workplaces that truly support well-being.
If you’d like to learn more about my on-site or virtual home and office organizing, planning, and consulting services, visit juliesorganizingservices.ca — I’d love to connect.
Trained Professional Organizer & ADHD Specialist 