What Is Neurodivergence?
By Lisa Shanken
July 15, 2025
At Tri-Wellness, we work with and advocate for neurodivergent individuals all the time. We often hear people confused by this “trendy” term, so we wanted to dig a little deeper about its meaning.
Neurodivergence refers to the natural variation in how people’s brains work. It describes individuals whose neurological development and functioning diverge from what’s considered neurotypical—that is, the “average” or “standard” way most people think, learn, process emotions, and interact with others.
The term neurodivergent was coined by Kassiane Asasumasu and popularized by Judy Singer, an autistic sociologist, in the late 1990s as part of the neurodiversity movement.
Being neurodivergent simply means your brain processes information differently—not incorrectly, not negatively, and not poorly - just differently.
Neurodivergence vs. Autism
It’s common to associate neurodivergence with autism—and while autism is a type of neurodivergence, it’s not the only one. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a medical diagnosis with specific criteria outlined in the DSM-5. Neurodivergence, on the other hand, is an umbrella term that includes a much broader range of conditions, styles of thinking, and sensory experiences.
You can be neurodivergent without being autistic.
What Falls Under the Neurodivergent Umbrella?
A wide range of conditions and identities are considered neurodivergent, including:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
- Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Dyslexia
- Dyspraxia
- Dyscalculia
- Tourette Syndrome
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)
- Non Verbal Learning Disorder
- Mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD (depending on how they affect cognitive function)
Neurodivergent vs. Neurotypical
Think of it like this:
- Neurotypical: A person whose brain functions and processes are considered “typical” by societal standards.
- Neurodivergent: A person whose cognitive functioning diverges from this norm.
Neither label is inherently good or bad—they are simply descriptors. Unfortunately, society often treats neurodivergence as something to "fix" rather than embrace. This can create stigma, stress, and isolation for individuals whose brains are wired differently.
Research shows that we can help get rid of this stigma by increasing education and public awareness, increasing interactions between neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals, highlighting neurodivergent voices in society through peer-led advocacy, and creating inclusive work places and through the media to normalize neurodivergent traits.
What are ways that you think we can eradicate this stigma? I would love to hear your feedback!
Neurodivergence Is Not a Deficit
It’s essential to understand that neurodivergence is not a flaw or failure—it's a difference. Many neurodivergent individuals bring extraordinary creativity, empathy, focus, and innovation to the world. They may see connections others miss, challenge conventional thinking, or offer deep insight into human behavior.
What they often need isn’t a cure—but accommodation, understanding, and inclusion.
At Tri-Wellness, we believe mental health and wellness is about supporting the whole person. Whether someone is neurodivergent or neurotypical, every brain deserves respect, care, love, and space to thrive.
Lisa Shanken
My passion is to help you live your healthiest and most harmonious life, but in a way that’s realistic and practical for you as a unique individual on this planet. My philosophy is all about “balance,” never a diet since a diet is not sustainable for life, aka Kill The Diet.
Mindfulness for Neurodivergent Individuals
By Lisa Shanken
January 9, 2026
When most people hear the word mindfulness, they imagine sitting still with eyes closed, breathing calmly while thoughts slowly drift away. While I, personally, have been practicing meditation for over a decade, even when I hear this “typical” description of it, I get intimidated and turned off. That traditional image...
History Of The Autism Diagnosis
By Lisa Shanken
December 6, 2025
From Disorder to Diversity: A Short History of Autism & Neurodivergence Today, conversations about autism, ADHD, AuDHD, and “neurodivergence” are everywhere. But the rise isn’t in autistic people themselves — it’s in recognition. The people have always been here; what changed is our language, criteria, and willingness to diagnose. How...
Testimonials
Lisa’s weight loss plan really gave me a new insight to healthy eating and living. I was diagnosed with breast cancer in January 2015. Healthy living/easting/exercise has become very important to me and my family and this program really helped me get even more on the course with this and helped me lose weight.
Danielle D, Great Neck, NY
When I heard about the 10 Day Weight Loss Challenge, I wasn’t sure if it would be a good fit, since as a physician, I understand nutrition and health (and therefore knew the dangers of fad diets, etc…), and I do my best to exercise (though not always enough). But as a single mother of 2, it’s still very challenging ti “fit in all in” (including cooking healthy meals for my children) due to my busy schedule. And when my time is short, bad habits crop up and weight gain follows.
Dr. Gila Ackerman, Boulder, CO
Psychiatrist
Lisa has made an enormous contribution to my health and strength. I have seen and felt the most fantastic changes in an amazingly short time.
Chessie F, Boulder, CO
I just wanted to say you were amazing through this 10 day process! I learned so much from you! You were very thorough in all areas of the challenge and got back to us in such a quick manner with our questions. It was a great jump start into a more healthy life style that’s for sure!
Colby E, Boulder, Colorado
I LOVE the recipes, simple, few ingredients, appealing. I like the idea of using the list of staples you provided when i was tempted to cheat!
Phyliss S, Spring House, PA
I worked with Lisa to develop a holistic wellness plan that has allowed personal growth without having to completely change my lifestyle. Her programs are designed around your personal needs, so I always feel like I've gotten the most from my sessions and leave with manageable goals. Lisa's three-prong approach to wellness (fitness, nutrition and health) is helping me live a balanced and grateful life.
Ali S., Boulder, CO
I’ve been through the ringer with different dieting plans through the years. Some helped me lose weight and some didn’t – but it didn’t matter because I would always gain it back. I didn’t know if this 10 day Weight Loss Challenge would be the answer since everyone says they have the “BEST” way to lose weight. But this one seemed to be more doable – like instead of starving myself, keeping track of calories (“been there done that – VERY annoying!”) and things I know I wouldn’t stick to.
Jill W, Park, NY
Lisa, you have been a very positive role model for me! Through the exercise and diet I’m becoming healthy and more positive about my life!!! Thanks!
