Specializing in supporting clients with marginalized neurotypes ("neurodivergent" or marginalized "neurostyles"). We all live in a world of diverse ways of thinking, feeling, and experiencing ("neurodiversity"). Through an affirming lens, we support your therapy needs and/or provide assessment to help you gain access to resources. We understand that Autistic and/or folks with ADHD (or, as Dr. Nick Walker says, "kinetic cognitive style") need support that accepts and honors differences rather than pathologizing lived experiences.
Adult Diagnosis and Reflection Support: Compassionate Exploration
We recognize that understanding adult autism and ADHD goes beyond diagnostic criteria. We want to know your story. Our qualitative assessment protocol embraces the unique experiences and perspectives of each individual.
How Dr. Flores Approaches Assessment:
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Listening to Personal Narratives via In-Depth Interviews: We engage in in-depth interviews with adults of various marginalized neurotypes. These conversations allow us to explore unique life journeys, challenges, and strengths. We listen actively, seeking to understand their unique perspectives.
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Relational Insights: We also involve partners or family members in this assessment at times, when the adult being assessed invites someone close to them. Their observations provide valuable context. These external narratives enrich our understanding and guide our assessment.​
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Exploring Potential Sources of Trauma via a Trauma-Trained Approach: We recognize that trauma can impact Autistic and ADHD brain styles. Dr. Flores and her team are trauma-informed and/or trauma-trained.
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Beyond Symptomatology: Dr. Flores uses assessments the delve deeper into context that is more nuanced than 'symptoms'. We explore coping strategies, compensatory methods, masking energy expenditure, communication, trust in self, sensory experiences, and personal interests. These insights inform personalized strategies and patterns.
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Collaboration and Empowerment via a Collaborative Process: We work together with clients, respecting their autonomy. Our goal is to empower them with self-awareness, coping skills, and a sense of agency.Holistic Understanding: Beyond diagnosis, we aim to understand the whole person—their passions, challenges, and aspirations. Our affirming approach fosters growth and resilience.​Feel free to explore our services and reach out. Together, we can create a supportive and validating space for adults with Autistic or ADHD brain styles.
They shared stories of letting their inner rebel out from the shadows of dominant society, with a persistent drive for autonomy (PDA), originally denoted as pathological/pervasive demand avoidance (PDA). They also shared the “exhaustion” that sometimes comes with their innate non-conformist energy, allowing them to keep swimming
in a mainstream world.
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-Dr. Robyn Flores