What Support May Look Like

Every person’s support needs are different, however sessions may involve things such as:

• exploring possible neurodivergence and identity

• unpacking burnout, overwhelm or masking

• understanding why certain environments, expectations or interactions leave you overwhelmed and exhausted

• talking through relationships, communication or workplace/school challenges

• preparing for school meetings, support reviews, difficult conversations or navigating services

• parent guidance and support

• developing strategies that work with a neurodivergent brain rather than against it

• collaborative meetings or communication with schools and other supports where appropriate

Sessions are often conversational, reflective and practical, with space for humour, honesty and authentic connection. Support is strengths-focused and aims to work with neurodivergent differences rather than viewing them as something that needs to be “fixed”.

How This Support May Differ

Neurodivergent support can look different across counselling, psychology, occupational therapy (OT), coaching and consulting spaces.

The Cortex Collective does not aim to replace these supports. Instead, Amanda’s work is often more relational, collaborative and systems-focused, drawing together understanding from education, counselling, lived neurodivergent experience and practical real-world support.

Understanding the Scope of Support

While Amanda has extensive experience supporting families and schools, direct client support is currently focused on adolescents (12+) and adults.

For younger children, support is generally provided through parents, caregivers, educators and other professionals supporting the child.

Support may involve helping clients and families:

• better understand neurodivergence and nervous system needs

• navigate systems such as schools, supports and services

• process burnout, overwhelm or late diagnosis experiences

• strengthen communication, self-understanding and self-advocacy

• feel understood without needing to constantly translate themselves

Unlike some more formal clinical environments, sessions are often conversational, flexible and adapted collaboratively to individual needs.

Some clients may also work alongside psychologists, occupational therapists, psychiatrists, GPs or allied health professionals as part of broader collaborative care.

Support does not involve:

• Therapy or psychotherapy

• Crisis or emergency support

• Diagnostic assessments

• A replacement for medical, psychiatric or allied health care

• A “one size fits all” approach to neurodivergent support

If support outside Amanda’s scope is needed, referrals to other appropriate services or professionals may be recommended.