In my practice at QC Psych Testing, PLLC, I often encounter the core conflict faced by neurodivergent individuals: the constant pressure to behave, think, and communicate as if they were neurotypical. We’ve talked a lot about the immense energy spent on masking—the effort to suppress natural Autistic traits or ADHD-driven behaviors just to fit in.

This brings up a crucial question about how we design our schools, workplaces, and social settings. The answer lies in a simple, foundational principle: Treating neurotypical people as if they are neurodivergent doesn't hurt them, but treating neurodivergent people as if they are neurotypical actively harms them.

I spend a lot of time helping clients understand their brains. For those seeking an Autism assessment, the journey is often cluttered with misinformation. The public understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder (or just Autism, as many in the community prefer) is frequently based on stereotypes and outdated science, which creates real barriers to self-acceptance and getting the right support.

To be fair, there is still a ton we don’t know about Autism and the Diagnostic Statistical Manual (DSM) we use to standardize diagnostic criteria is a living document subject to change as our knowledgebase grows. That said, there are things we do know.

Today, I want to take on the most common, harmful myths I hear about Autism—its origins, its expression, and what "treatment" truly means from a neurodiversity-affirming perspective.

One of the most common and powerful themes that emerges is the concept of intense interests—what many in the community proudly call special interests or, in some contexts, hyper-focus. These are far more than just hobbies; they are sources of profound joy, deep knowledge, and essential regulation.

For neurodivergent individuals, these interests often run far deeper than typical pastimes, shaping identity, well-being, and daily life. Let’s explore these distinct forms of intense engagement and how they manifest in different neurotypes.

Have you ever felt like your brain has a million tabs open, or you know exactly what you need to do but can't quite get started? Or perhaps you've struggled to recall a memory that feels just out of reach? These experiences often tie back to something psychologists call executive functions. Think of executive functions as your brain's sophisticated "command center" or its "management team." These are the higher-level cognitive skills that help you plan, organize, manage your time, control impulses, regulate emotions, and remember things to effectively achieve your goals. Essentially, they bridge the gap between knowing what to do and actually doing it.