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Navigating the Journey of Neurodivergence: Embracing My Identity and Advocating for Change
As the owner of GE Family Services, my journey of self-discovery as a later-in-life recognized autistic and ADHD adult has been deeply intertwined with my professional life. The path to understanding and embracing my neurodivergence has been marked by challenges, setbacks, and moments of profound growth. This blog post offers a brief glimpse into that journey, highlighting the key themes that have shaped my experience and the work we do at GE Family Services.
Discovering My Neurodivergence
For many years, I navigated life without fully understanding the underlying reasons for why I felt "different." It wasn't until adulthood that I began to recognize the signs of autism and ADHD in myself—traits that had always been present but went unnoticed. The process of understanding these aspects of my identity was both liberating and daunting. It required me to confront years of masking, self-doubt, and the societal pressure to conform to neurotypical norms.
The Challenges of the Professional World
The professional environment often amplifies the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals. I experienced this firsthand through a series of painful misunderstandings and setbacks. Despite my dedication to ethics, rules, and professional standards—traits I had always considered strengths—these qualities were often misinterpreted as rigidity or inflexibility. The realization that my neurodivergence was being misunderstood and weaponized against me was devastating, leading to moments of deep reflection and a commitment to change.
Creating a Neurodivergent-Friendly Practice
These experiences fueled my determination to create a different kind of work environment—one where neurodivergent individuals could thrive without fear of being misunderstood or penalized. GE Family Services was born from this vision. Here, we prioritize flexibility, transparency, and a commitment to accommodating the unique needs of our neurodivergent staff and clients. From sensory accommodations to fully autonomous work schedules, our practice is designed to support everyone in doing their best work in a comfortable and understanding environment.
Advocacy and the Path Forward
Embracing my neurodivergence has also led me to become a vocal advocate for neurodiversity. At GE Family Services, we are committed to pushing for systemic change in the mental health field and beyond. While my advocacy efforts have been small-scale and personal, they have laid the groundwork for broader impact. As I continue to grow and learn, I remain dedicated to challenging the norms that marginalize neurodivergent individuals and to creating spaces where we are not just accepted but celebrated.
This blog post offers a brief overview of my journey. For a more detailed account, including specific challenges and the strategies we’ve implemented at GE Family Services, I invite you to read the full article linked below.
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