Unmasked: A Therapy Group for Neurodivergent Adults

Unmasked Group 1: Meets Every Tuesday Online 5pm - 6:30pm 

Unmasked Group 2: Meets Every Thursday Online 5pm - 6:30pm

Unmasked Group 3: Meets Every Tuesday Online 12:30 pm - 2:00pm 

Unmasked is the brainchild of founder Linnea Butler, LMFT, who is neurodivergent herself and saw the need for an affirming group for adults, especially those who recognized their divergence later in life.

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Neurodivergent people often struggle with emotion dysregulation due to their heightened sensitivity and being easily overstimulated and overwhelmed. Our group combines the principles of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) with a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent people. Our goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment where members can let down the mask and learn to live authentically.

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What is Neurodiversity?

Neurodiversity refers to the idea that neurological differences, such as autism, ADHD, and Tourette's syndrome, are a normal aspect of human diversity and should be valued and respected, rather than pathologized. There is no one "normal" way of thinking or processing information, and each individual's neurological differences bring valuable perspectives and skills to the world.

We are not aiming to "fix" neurodivergent but rather to celebrate it.

Why DBT for Neurodivergence?

While Standard DBT is not always appropriate for neurodivergent people, some of the DBT skills are highly effective and just need to be taught in a different way. DBT is a research-based therapy that has been shown to be effective for individuals who struggle with emotional regulation and self-destructive behaviors. It provides a comprehensive set of skills to help individuals regulate their emotions, tolerate distress, and improve their relationships with others. The principles of DBT align well with the goals of neurodivergent affirming care, as they emphasize self-acceptance, validation, and the importance of living authentically.

What to Expect in Unmasked

Unmasked is a weekly therapy group that meets for 90 min and is led by a neurodivergent DBT-trained therapist. The primary goal of the group is to create a safe space for ND people to learn to unmask and get comfortable in their own skin.

Group members will have the opportunity to connect with others who share similar experiences and challenges. Group members will be encouraged to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in an affirming, strengths-based and non-judgmental environment. The group will also provide opportunities for members to learn and practice selected DBT skills as needed.

Some of the topics that may be covered in Unmasked include:

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• Coping with Change: It has been said that the only constant is change and for Neurodivergent people this is especially unsettling. Participants will learn strategies for coping with uncertainty and change.

• Challenging the Inner Critic: Reducing self-criticism and increasing self-compassion

• Understanding Neurodivergence: Participants can learn about what neurodiversity is and how it affects individuals in different ways.

• Coping with Challenges: Participants can discuss and develop strategies for managing the challenges that come with neurodivergence, such as social stigma, communication difficulties, and executive functioning difficulties.

• Building Self-Esteem: Participants can work on improving their self-esteem and self-acceptance, and learn to see their neurodivergences as strengths rather than weaknesses.

• Navigating relationships: Participants can discuss and learn skills for improving relationships with friends, family, and romantic partners, and managing the challenges that come with neurodivergences in these relationships.

• Mindfulness and Self-Care: Participants can learn and practice mindfulness and self-care techniques to help them manage stress and maintain emotional well-being.

• Identifying and Processing Emotions: Participants can work through their emotions and feelings related to neurodivergence and develop healthy coping mechanisms.

These topics can be explored through group discussions, exercises, and interactive activities, with the support of a trained facilitator. The goal of the group is to provide a safe and supportive environment where neurodivergent individuals can connect with others who understand their experiences and work towards greater self-understanding and well-being

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Who Can Benefit from Unmasked?

Unmasked is designed for people who identify as neurodiverse and struggle with emotional regulation. This may include people who have been diagnosed with or identify as Autistic, ADHD, Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), or Sensory Processing Disorder.

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Getting Started

If you are interested in joining Unmasked, please contact us to schedule an initial assessment with one of our therapists. During the assessment, we will discuss your goals for therapy and determine if this group is a good fit for you. We look forward to the opportunity to support you on your journey towards self-acceptance and emotional regulation

Contact Us to Apply for the Unmasked Group