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An Evidence-Based and Lived Experience Approach to Improving Therapeutic Environments for Neurodivergent Clients
Amile Cominotti1, Cailyn Green1
1College of Health and Human Services, SUNY Empire State University, NY, USA.
Health Services Insights
|July 17, 2026
Summary
Counseling services can be more accessible for neurodivergent individuals by adapting environments and communication. Practical, low-cost strategies empower counselors to affirm neurodivergent needs, reducing barriers to mental healthcare.
Area of Science:
- Mental Health
- Neurodiversity Studies
- Counseling Psychology
Background:
- Neurodivergent individuals experience significant environmental and communication challenges in counseling.
- Sensory sensitivities and accessibility barriers hinder treatment engagement for neurodivergent clients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide practical guidance for supporting neurodivergent needs in counseling.
- To integrate evidence-based research with lived experiences of neurodivergent individuals.
- To offer recommendations for counselors to create inclusive therapeutic spaces.
Main Methods:
- Community perspective integrating research and lived experience.
- Analysis of environmental and communication barriers in counseling.
- Development of practical recommendations for counselors.
Main Results:
- Counselors can modify practices and physical spaces to reduce anxiety.
- Support for diverse processing styles and neurodivergent ways of being is crucial.
- Many effective modifications are low-cost and individually implementable.
Conclusions:
- Neurodivergent-affirming care is achievable with practical modifications.
- Counselor-led changes can overcome organizational constraints.
- Accessible mental healthcare for neurodivergent individuals is a priority.
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