Neurodevelopmental Services

What Is Neurodiversity?

Neurodiversity is a framework that embraces unique differences in the brain. Brain differences are normal, not deficits. The neurodivergent community offers distinctive and valuable contributions to society that are often overlooked. Our goal is to leverage those strengths to support neurodivergent individuals in areas they identify as needing support.

Neurodiversity is not synonymous with disability, though it can be experienced as disabling to the individual. Some individuals may experience their neurodiversity as a challenge and may struggle to feel comfortable and accepted in their communities. Our role is never to imply that a neurodivergent individual needs to be “fixed” or “changed”. Instead, neurodiversity-affirming interventions are utilized to promote acceptance and help teach others how to better understand and support their loved one for who they are.

Society has historically accepted the idea that brains falling outside of “typical” are “disordered.” Thankfully, due to neurodiversity and self-advocacy movements and education, a new lens has emerged that promotes identity choice, empowerment of difference, acceptance, and kindness. Expectations to conform to neurotypical society’s rules are now being challenged to a great degree.

Pacific Clinics understands, promotes, and utilizes neurodiversity-affirming practices. Inclusion and acceptance are essential, and we strongly value individuality.

What Is Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapy?

Neurodiversity-affirming therapy respects and embraces the uniqueness, strengths, and individuality of each person. Therapeutic interventions (if needed) are sensitive to client choice and client identification of strengths and needs.

Neurodiversity-affirming therapeutic techniques never include forcing clients to engage in uncomfortable and distressful behaviors to fit into neurotypical society and social norms. However, some clients have sought treatment to help them learn techniques to feel more comfortable in environments they want to be in.

Types of Services

Pacific Clinics offers evaluation and intervention services for children, adolescents, and adults with suspected or diagnosed neurodevelopmental conditions. Our interdisciplinary team uses neurodiversity-affirming practices to work closely with clients, caregivers, school teams, regional centers, physicians, and other key stakeholders to best understand the unique and individualized needs of each client.

We provide psychological evaluations for suspected Neurodevelopmental Conditions such as:

• Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
• Autism
• Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
• Language, Motor, and Specific Learning Disorders
• Tourette Syndrome & Tic Disorder

We also provide psychological evaluations and differential diagnosis for other neurological differences such as:

• Executive Functioning Deficits
• Sensory Processing Challenges
• Mood and Anxiety Disorders

Accessing Services

Pacific Clinics’ Neurodevelopmental Services program aims to create a safe and inclusive space for neurodivergent people. Our teams recognize neurological differences and strengths to help create a feeling of belonging. To request services, please contact our Client Services Department: 800-906-0862.