ADHD and Autism Therapy
Trauma-Informed Care Designed for Neurodivergent Individuals
Understanding neurodiversity
What is Neurodiversity?
Neurodiversity is the concept that neurological differences are to be recognized and respected as any other human variation. These differences can include conditions like ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Dyslexia, and other cognitive and learning disorders.
Expressions of Neurodiversity
ADHD: Characterized by symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness. Individuals with ADHD often face challenges in maintaining focus but can be highly creative and energetic.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): A range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech, and nonverbal communication. People with ASD may have unique ways of learning, paying attention, or reacting to sensations.
Dyslexia: A learning difficulty that primarily affects reading and related language-based processing skills. People with dyslexia often excel in problem-solving and creative thinking.
At Bellevue Trauma Recovery Center, we honor neurodiversity and are committed to providing personalized support that acknowledges and harnesses the strengths of each individual.
Here’s how we do it:
Personalized Assessment: Understanding that each person is unique, we start with a comprehensive assessment to identify individual strengths, challenges, and preferences.
Tailored Interventions: Based on assessment results, we create customized intervention plans that cater to the specific needs of each individual. This may include therapy sessions, academic support, and skill-building activities.
Collaboration and Advocacy: We work closely with families, educators, and other professionals to ensure a holistic support system. We also advocate for inclusive practices in schools and workplaces to better accommodate neurodiverse individuals.
Strength-Based Approach: Focusing on strengths rather than limitations, we empower individuals to leverage their unique abilities. This approach fosters confidence and helps individuals to thrive in various aspects of life.
Continuous Support: Our commitment is ongoing. We provide continuous support and regularly review and adjust intervention plans to adapt to the evolving needs of the clientele.
Top-rated neurodivergent therapist
Krysten Hardy, MA, LSWAIC, CCPS-C
- Neurodivergent individuals (ADHD, Autism)
- Compulsive behaviors (technology overuse, sexual behaviors)
- Trauma and betrayal
- Domestic violence survivors
- Identity exploration and life transitions
- Group therapy facilitation
- Master of Arts in Clinical Social Work, University of Washington
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Western Washington University (Minor in Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies)
- Licensed Social Work Associate Independent Clinical (LSWAIC) – Washington
- Trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
- Trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)
Mary-Frances Moore, M.Ed, LMHC, CCTP-II
Clinical Lead
Mary-Frances specializes in supporting neurodivergent individuals, including those with ADHD, Autism, and couples navigating the complexities of neurodivergence in relationships. With a compassionate and trauma-informed approach, Mary-Frances helps clients build resilience, improve communication, and foster deeper connections.
Specialty Areas:
- Neurodivergent individuals (ADHD, Autism)
- Trauma and PTSD
- Intergenerational trauma
- Betrayal trauma and infidelity recovery
- Substance use and recovery
- Out-of-control sexual behaviors (OCSB)
- Psychedelic support and harm reduction
Education and Credentials:
- Master in Education in Counseling (M.Ed.), University of Houston
- Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington (LMHC)
- Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Level 2 (CCTP-II)
- Certified Prolonged Exposure Therapist
- Level 1 Integrative Harm Reduction Psychotherapy
- ETT Level 1
- Restoring Truth Disclosure Guide Training
Jenine Behnken, MA, LMHCA, CCPS-C
Therapist
Jenine is an individual and couples therapist at the Bellevue Trauma Recovery Center (BTRC). She provides trauma-informed care to neurodivergent individuals, including those with ADHD, as well as clients navigating betrayal trauma, workplace challenges, and relationship issues. With warmth and compassion, Jenine creates a safe space for clients to explore their stories and move toward healing.
Specialty Areas:
- Neurodivergent individuals (ADHD)
- Betrayal trauma and infidelity recovery
- Workplace trauma and professional burnout
- Anxiety, depression, and OCD
- Complex PTSD
- Couples therapy and relationship challenges
Education and Credentials:
- Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology, Northwest University
- Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate (LMHCA) – Washington
- Gottman Method Couples Therapy Levels 1-2
- Gottman Method Couples Therapy Treating Affairs and Trauma
- APSATS Certified Clinical Partner Specialist Candidate (CCPS-C)
- Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT) trained therapist
Connie Zollner
Connie takes a holistic and neurodivergent affirming approach to treatment, always considering the unique needs of each individual. Her expertise includes guiding individuals through challenges such as infidelity, problematic pornography use, and compulsive behaviors, while also addressing sensory needs, social needs, regulation skills, and communication styles. Connie’s specialized experience allows her to integrate therapy services for neurodivergent individuals.
Education and Credentials:
Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D)
Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology (MA),
Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington State (LMHC),
Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado State (LPC),
APSATS Certified Clinical Partner Specialist (CCPS),
Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT),
Certified ETT Complex Trauma Therapist,
Certified ETT Addiction Therapist,
Certified ETT Somatic Therapist
Speciality Area (s):
Neurodiversity affirming therapist
Sex Addiction
Betrayal Trauma,
PTSD
Sensory Issues
Adolescents
OCD
Online therapy
Krysten Hardy, MA, LSWAIC, CCPS-C
Krysten Hardy is a Licensed Social Work Associate in Washington State who provides compassionate, client-centered therapy for neurodivergent teens, young adults, and adults. She creates a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their unique identities, navigate life transitions, and build resilience.
Specialty Areas:
- Neurodivergent individuals (ADHD, Autism)
- Compulsive behaviors (technology overuse, sexual behaviors)
- Trauma and betrayal
- Addiction within family systems
- Domestic violence survivors
- Identity exploration and life transitions
- Group therapy facilitation
Education and Credentials:
- Master of Arts in Clinical Social Work, University of Washington
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Western Washington University (Minor in Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies)
- Licensed Social Work Associate Independent Clinical (LSWAIC) – Washington
- APSATS Certified Clinical Partner Specialist Candidate (CCPS-C)
- Trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
- Trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)
Mary-Frances Moore, M.Ed, LMHC, CCTP-II
Clinical Lead
Mary-Frances specializes in supporting neurodivergent individuals, including those with ADHD, Autism, and couples navigating the complexities of neurodivergence in relationships. With a compassionate and trauma-informed approach, Mary-Frances helps clients build resilience, improve communication, and foster deeper connections.
Specialty Areas:
- Neurodivergent individuals (ADHD, Autism)
- Trauma and PTSD
- Intergenerational trauma
- Betrayal trauma and infidelity recovery
- Substance use and recovery
- Out-of-control sexual behaviors (OCSB)
- Psychedelic support and harm reduction
Education and Credentials:
- Master in Education in Counseling (M.Ed.), University of Houston
- Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington (LMHC)
- Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Level 2 (CCTP-II)
- Certified Prolonged Exposure Therapist
- Level 1 Integrative Harm Reduction Psychotherapy
- ETT Level 1
- Restoring Truth Disclosure Guide Training
Jenine Behnken, MA, LMHCA, CCPS-C
Therapist
Jenine is an individual and couples therapist at the Bellevue Trauma Recovery Center (BTRC). She provides trauma-informed care to neurodivergent individuals, including those with ADHD, as well as clients navigating betrayal trauma, workplace challenges, and relationship issues. With warmth and compassion, Jenine creates a safe space for clients to explore their stories and move toward healing.
Specialty Areas:
- Neurodivergent individuals (ADHD)
- Betrayal trauma and infidelity recovery
- Workplace trauma and professional burnout
- Anxiety, depression, and OCD
- Complex PTSD
- Couples therapy and relationship challenges
Education and Credentials:
- Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology, Northwest University
- Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate (LMHCA) – Washington
- Gottman Method Couples Therapy Levels 1-2
- Gottman Method Couples Therapy Treating Affairs and Trauma
- APSATS Certified Clinical Partner Specialist Candidate (CCPS-C)
- Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT) trained therapist
Connie Zollner
Connie takes a holistic and neurodivergent affirming approach to treatment, always considering the unique needs of each individual. Her expertise includes guiding individuals through challenges such as infidelity, problematic pornography use, and compulsive behaviors, while also addressing sensory needs, social needs, regulation skills, and communication styles. Connie’s specialized experience allows her to integrate therapy services for neurodivergent individuals.
Education and Credentials:
Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D)
Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology (MA),
Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington State (LMHC),
Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado State (LPC),
APSATS Certified Clinical Partner Specialist (CCPS),
Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT),
Certified ETT Complex Trauma Therapist,
Certified ETT Addiction Therapist,
Certified ETT Somatic Therapist
Speciality Area (s):
Neurodiversity affirming therapist
Sex Addiction
Betrayal Trauma,
PTSD
Sensory Issues
Adolescents
OCD
Online therapy
FAQs about neurodivergent-affirming therapy
What is the most common neurodiverse condition?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are among the most prevalent neurodiverse conditions. ADHD affects approximately 5% of children and 2.5% of adults globally, with symptoms ranging from hyperactivity to difficulty paying attention. Autism is estimated to affect around 1 child in 54 children in the United States, showcasing a diverse spectrum that ranges from mild to severe. Each of these conditions manifests uniquely, underscoring the importance of recognizing and valuing the diversity in human neurocognitive functioning.
Can you grow out of neurodiversity?
Neurodiversity is not something individuals “grow out of.” Instead, neurodiversity is a lifelong aspect of one’s identity. However, people can learn strategies to manage their unique challenges and leverage their strengths more effectively. Therapy with a psychotherapist who specializes in neurodiversity and who is neurodiversity affirming helps neurodiverse and autistic individuals understand, and optimize their own neurocognitive style.
The therapist’ aim in practice is not to eradicate symptoms of a neurodivergent individual or disability, but to empower individuals by addressing their specific needs and fostering their strengths in a supportive environment and community.
What is neurodiverse-affirming therapy?
Neurodiverse affirming services that emphasizes acceptance and understanding of neurodivergent individuals. Neurodiverse affirming therapy respects and values neurodiversity, focusing on supporting individuals in overcoming challenges while celebrating their unique strengths. Our clinicians and therapists are trained in and specialize in neurodiversity-affirming practices, ensuring they provide empathetic and personalized care.
Our neurodiversity affirming providers work collaboratively with clients, using their expertise and knowledge to tailor strategies that accommodate each person’s distinct needs, thus fostering a sense of empowerment and self-acceptance.
What is the best therapy for neurodiverse people?
Therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Occupational Therapy, and Speech Therapy are frequently employed to support neurodivergent individuals. Our therapists are skilled in these approaches, adapting them to fit each client’s unique requirements. For example, CBT can help clients manage behavioral challenges and improve social skills, while Occupational Therapy focuses on building daily living skills.
Our team of neurodiversity affirming family therapists, and psychotherapists are committed to offering evidence-based, tailored neurodiversity affirming therapy and treatment plans, and therapy services that respect the individuality of each person, promoting growth and well-being.
Get the expert, affirming care you’ve been looking for.
At the Bellevue Trauma Recovery Center (BTRC), we understand the importance of neurodiversity and affirming care. Our many services offered, including Individual Therapy and ADHD and Adult Autism Assessments, are designed to help you find clarity, healing, and growth. With a philosophy rooted in trauma-informed care, we believe in creating a safe space where empathy, compassion, and connection guide your path to recovery.
Whether you’re seeking services to understand and manage ADHD or autism, learning disabilities, or looking for a potential therapist, our full community of neurodiversity affirming therapists and professional counselors can offer a safe space and can provide appropriate resources for family members as well.
If you’re interested in exploring the idea of how we can support your personal journey, we invite you to reach out. Contact us via email at He***@*****rc.com or call our office at 425-616-1261. We look forward to joining you on this path to healing and growth.