Increasing Knowledge of Neurodivergence for Therapists and the Self-Discovery Process-Ali Cunningham Abbott

If you are interested in learning more about the resources Mona has available for neurodiverse couples, or individuals in a neurodiverse relationship, you can check out her website at: www.neurodiverselove.com

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During this episode with Dr. Ali Cunningham Abbott, LMHC we talk about the self-discovery process for neurodivergent individuals and why it is critical for therapists, health care professionals and educators to have more knowledge and training about neurodiversity. Other topics addressed include:

• Ali's work at the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD) at Florida Atlantic University (FAU).
• Combatting assumptions about autism and romantic relationships.
• Counselors need to have the competencies to work with neurodivergent individuals or neurodiverse couples.
• Understanding the self-identification and self-discovery options and process.
• Knowing if it’s necessary to get a formal diagnosis.
• Using free assessment tools may be helpful (ie: Autism Quotient; Social Responsiveness Scale).
• Go to www.embraceautism.com for a lot of free assessment tools.
• Understand your Sensory Profile.
• Hypo and Hyper social motivation.
• Understanding autism across the lifespan, for all genders, for different races and the diversity in sexuality identities.
• Autism representation in the media and stereotypes.
• Feeling alien or not belonging and getting a diagnosis or self-identification as an adult.
• Grieving what could have been because of unknown autism.
• Using strengths and assets to help individuals thrive.
• Project F.I.N.D. (Females in Need of Diagnosis).
• Making higher educational training more autism friendly.

Ali is the Program Director for the Counseling Program at Lynn University and she has created an “Interest Network” at the Southern Association for Counselors Educators and Supervisors.

• If you would like to buy Ali's book the title is: Counseling Adults with Autism; A Comprehensive Toolkit.

• The title of Steph Jones book is: The Autistic Survival Guide to Therapy.

• You can contact Ali at Lynn University or on LinkedIn