Frequently Asked Questions

Neurodivergence describes natural variations in how people think, process information, and experience the world. It includes conditions like autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and many others. This list is not exhaustive, and there are forms of neurodivergence that may not be widely recognized or mentioned here. I work with anyone who identifies as neurodivergent, appreciating that my connection to neurodivergence comes from my own lived experience as an autistic person with ADHD. Neurodivergent people often face unique challenges because society is designed around neurotypical norms.

Masking means hiding or suppressing parts of yourself, such as emotions, personality traits, behaviors, or symptoms, from others. It is a coping strategy used to stay safe, blend in, or fit into social situations. Often, people mask without even realizing it. Masking usually develops in response to negative experiences, often starting in childhood but sometimes later. It happens because the systems around us do not support or match our natural needs, so we adapt to feel safer or more comfortable.

For neurodivergent adults, masking often involves camouflaging natural traits like sensory sensitivities, differences in social communication, or unique attention patterns to avoid misunderstanding, exclusion, or discomfort. While masking can help you manage difficult environments and feel safe, it can also cause emotional and physical harm if used over time.

Unmasking is the gradual process of revealing and accepting your authentic self in various areas of your life. It's guided by your values, helping you focus on what matters most. It includes finding safe spaces and setting boundaries that protect your dignity. By making small improvements in your emotional and physical well-being over time, you can build a better overall quality of life while managing the realities of the systems around you.

Unmasking focuses on addressing types of masking that cause harm to you or your community. Not all masking needs to be stopped. The goal is to find sustainable ways to live that honor your true self while reducing the negative effects of masking.

You do not need a formal diagnosis to receive coaching. I don’t diagnose neurodivergence, and I understand that diagnosis is a privilege many cannot obtain. I respect and support anyone who identifies as neurodivergent and seeks to increase their well-being.

Acceptance and Commitment Coaching (ACC) is based on the principles of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. It supports you in accepting your experiences without judgment, clarifying your values, and taking committed action toward living a meaningful and authentic life that honors your neurodivergence. ACC is especially well suited for neurodivergent individuals because it encourages flexibility, self-compassion, and mindfulness. It helps you navigate challenges like masking, sensory overwhelm, and executive functioning difficulties while focusing on what truly matters to you. Rather than trying to change who you are, ACC guides you to build a life aligned with your unique strengths and needs.

SAFE Unmasking™ is a set of 11 processes created for neurodivergent adults who want greater well-being. It offers a thoughtful approach to unmasking that centers emotional, physical, and social safety while honoring your full identity and individual path. The processes are not linear. Clients engage with those that best support their needs and lived experiences. Some explore all eleven; others focus on just a few. There is no required starting point and no single right way to move through them.

Coaching centers on your goals, values, and actions for the present and future. Each session focuses on a specific goal you bring to the table. Coaching helps you develop practical strategies and skills to support your well-being and authenticity. Therapy usually focuses on healing past trauma and mental health diagnoses. Both coaching and therapy can work well together.

Intersectionality recognizes that your experience is shaped by multiple, overlapping identities such as race, culture, gender, body, and more. My coaching practice honors this complexity and supports you in exploring how these intersecting identities impact your masking and unmasking journey. Together, we create strategies that respect your whole self and address the unique challenges and strengths you bring.

Sessions are collaborative and shaped by the specific focus you choose for each session. Together, we explore your experiences related to that focus, whether masking, unmasking, safety, or authenticity, and develop practical steps grounded in your values. The pace always respects your comfort and readiness.

The length of coaching engagements depends on your goals and needs. Many clients find three to six sessions helpful for gaining clarity and creating a plan.The tools and strategies you develop are designed to support your independent growth beyond coaching. Some clients choose ongoing sessions for deeper exploration and changing goals. Everyone’s journey is unique, and the pace is guided by what works best for you.

Yes. Coaching can help you identify triggers, create effective accommodations, and develop self-care practices that fit your lifestyle and values. Think of it like a kettle building pressure. Without ways to release that pressure, overwhelm and burnout can happen. Coaching supports you in managing that pressure so you can reduce the frequency and intensity of burnout and sensory overload. While coaching may not eliminate these challenges completely, it can help you feel more balanced and in control.

Absolutely. Confidentiality is a core part of our coaching relationship. Your personal information and what we discuss stay private unless there is a risk of harm to yourself or others.