A non-medical term describing the variations in brains develop and functioning. A neurodivergent (ND) person is a person that has a brain that is wired differently than what is considered “normal” or neurotypical (NT).

Autism (ASD) is a neurobiological disorder impacting individuals in communication, social/emotional and often has high-interests or restricted interests.

Person-first language puts a person before their disability. For instance “person who is deaf” or “person with ADHD.” Identify-first language emphasizes the disability first for example, “autistic” or “deaf.”

Yes. The DSM-5 introduced a level of support system when diagnosisng autism. This concept was adopted by the neurodiverst movement. Using the old terms “high or low functioning” can be considered offensive to neurodivergent people. Additionally, it doesn’t accurately discribe a person’s ability to function.

Internal Family Systems was developed by Dick Schwartz and it is a therapeutic modality introduced to help people living with trauma. As it has evolved, IFS can help neurodivergent people understand their inner workings and motivations.

The definition of trauma continues to be debated. Clinically, the DSM outlines diagnositic criteria for Acute Stress Disorder or Post-traumatic Stress Disorder. However, trauma is more pervasive. It is defined by the Oxford Dictionary as a “deeply distressing” or disturbing experience. In autism, this could occur with everyday stressors or social interactions.

When a person has difficulties identifiny, experiencing or expressing feelings or emotions. Reportedly, 50% of autistic people have this trait. It can be called emotional blindness. Often when talking about feeling or emotions it is more factual or clinical sounding. If you suspect you may be alexithymic take the “Online Alexithymia Questionnaire” at https//embrace-autism.com/online-alexithymia-questionnaire/

The inability to recognize or remember faces. People are either born with it or it is caused by traumatic brain injuries. Prosopagnosia range from mild to severe cases.

An acronym for Autism spectrum disorder and Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). It is an unofficial term describing a person who has been diagnosied with both ASD and ADHD. It is estimated that 40-70% of autistic people also have ADHD.

A description on how the brain works and is based on Cloninger Temperment and Characteristics Scale.

The ability to be aware of internal body sensations and how they correspond with physical and emotional states. Check out Kelly Mahler’s website.