LGBTQI+ identity and creative expression: Supporting neurodivergent children with Brianna Thomas

In this joyful chat, AuDHDer and delightful clinical psychologist Brianna Thomas shares insightful, creative and practical strategies for building affirming spaces where neurodivergent and LGBTQI+ young people can explore their identities. We discuss the powerful intersection of neurodivergence and gender/sexual identity, why curiosity beats assumptions every time, and how creativity and parallel play can become your most powerful therapeutic tools. Also, flowers, glue and banana bread.

"If I don't regulate, how can they possibly be expected to do what we say if we are not doing it in front of them and really authentically living it out in that moment?" – Brianna Thomas

We cover:

• The high crossover between neurodivergence and LGBTQI+ identities and what adults need to understand
• How to create psychologically safe spaces through creativity, curiosity, thoughtful intake forms, and flexible communication
• Why slowing the pace (without blocking exploration) helps everyone process identity journeys together
• School strategies: bathroom accommodations, roll call flexibility, and family communication
• The power of parallel play and co-regulation in therapeutic sessions
• Bringing creativity into everything: why "making a sandwich" counts as creative practice
• Moving beyond worksheets to rocks with googly eyes, paint, clay, and colorful chaos

Resources Mentioned:

• Trans Hub: transhub.org.au – Information for clinicians, parents, and trans young people
• The Gender Identity Workbook for Teens – Structured resource for exploring gender journey (with quizzes and activities for individuals, families, or therapists): https://www.thenile.com.au/books/andrew-maxwell-triska-msw-lcsw/gender-identity-workbook-for-teens/9781648765087
• Beautiful Oops! by Barney Saltzberg – Picture book about finding opportunity in mistakes and imperfection: https://www.amazon.com/Beautiful-Oops-Barney-Saltzberg/dp/076115728X

Connect with Brianna Thomas:

• ADHD IRL Podcast: Listen on Spotify
• The Psych Hive: thepsychhive.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepsychhive/ and https://www.instagram.com/brianna_thomas_psych/