Neurodiversity & Autism Therapy in Albuquerque, NM
Sandia Therapy and Wellness Center offers affirming therapy for neurodiverse teens and adults, including those with autism.
Neurodiversity celebrates the many ways people think, feel, and interact with the world. Our therapists and counselors support teens and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other neurodiverse identities, focusing on strengths while addressing challenges in focus, communication, and emotional regulation. At our wellness center in Albuquerque, we tailor therapy using strength-based and evidence-informed approaches. Together, we’ll help you build skills for work, relationships, and everyday life so you feel seen, respected, and empowered.
What the Experts Say About Neurodiversity
Harvard Health: Neurodiversity
Neurodiversity describes the idea that people experience and interact with the world around them in many different ways; there is no one "right" way of thinking, learning, and behaving, and differences are not viewed as deficits.
The word neurodiversity refers to the diversity of all people, but it is often used in the context of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), as well as other neurological or developmental conditions such as ADHD or learning disabilities. The neurodiversity movement emerged during the 1990s, aiming to increase acceptance and inclusion of all people while embracing neurological differences. Through online platforms, more and more autistic people were able to connect and form a self-advocacy movement. At the same time, Judy Singer, an Australian sociologist, coined the term neurodiversity to promote equality and inclusion of "neurological minorities." While it is primarily a social justice movement, neurodiversity research and education is increasingly important in how clinicians view and address certain disabilities and neurological conditions.
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here to learn more on the Harvard Health website.
NIH: Neurodiversity
Neurodiversity describes the idea that people experience and interact with the world around them in many ways, with no one "right" way of thinking, learning, and behaving, and differences are not deficits.

Neurodiversity refers to the diversity of all people, but it is often used in the context of autism spectrum disorder and other neurological or developmental disorders such as ADHD or dyslexia. Referring to someone as neurodiverse or neurodivergent is a way to focus on the positive aspects of their differences and what that can bring to the group setting.
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here
to learn more on the NIH website.
Understanding Neurodiversity: FAQs and Helpful Insight
Everyone’s brain works a little differently. These questions explore what it means to be neurodivergent and how therapy in Albuquerque can offer support that fits your unique way of thinking.
How do I know if I'm neurodiverse?
Neurodiversity includes a range of ways people think, process, and interact with the world. If you often feel different in how you focus, communicate, or experience emotions, you may be neurodiverse. A therapist can help you explore this and better understand your strengths and challenges.
What is considered neurodiversity?
Neurodiversity refers to natural differences in how people think and learn. It includes autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other variations. At Sandia Therapy and Wellness Center in Albuquerque, we offer counseling that honors and supports neurodivergent ways of being.
What does neurodivergent look like in adults?
In adults, neurodivergence might show up as difficulty with time management, sensory sensitivity, or social interaction. Many people also have strong focus in certain areas or creative ways of thinking. Therapy can help adults embrace how they work best.
How do neurodivergent people think?
Neurodivergent individuals may process information in unique ways. This might include nonlinear thinking, deep focus, or heightened sensitivity to sounds, light, or emotions. Counseling can provide tools for self-awareness and support that fits how your brain works.
What is a high functioning neurodivergent?
“High functioning” is a label some use when someone appears to manage daily life well despite challenges. But everyone’s experience is different. Therapy focuses on helping each person not on labels so they can thrive in ways that work for them.
How do I know if I'm actually neurodivergent?
If you’ve always felt different or struggled with things others find easy, it may be worth exploring. A therapist or mental health professional can help you assess whether neurodivergence is part of your experience and guide you with compassionate support.
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More services at Sandia Wellness and Therapy Center
- ADHD
- Anxiety
- Bipolar Disorder
- Depression
- Grief and Loss
- LGBTQIA+ Affirming Therapy and Counseling
- Panic Disorder
- Stress Management
- Trauma and PTSD
- Talk Therapy
- Eye Movement & Reprocessing (EMDR)
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
- Compassionate Inquiry Therapy
- Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP)
- Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)
- Exposure Therapy
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Interventions For Overwhelming Emotions & Relationship Issues