In this episode of My Therapist is Out!, Kristen Crowe (they/them) and Ernesto Martinez (they/he) dive into what it really means to navigate the world as queer and neurodivergent. Together, they unpack how neurotypical standards often miss the mark, why compassionate frameworks matter, and how therapy can shift when it’s designed with neurodiverse folks in mind. From the pressures of societal expectations to the beauty of play, experimentation, and self-acceptance, Kristen and Ernesto remind us that thriving means rewriting the rules — not squeezing into them.

Takeaways

Neurodiversity encompasses a wide range of cognitive variations.

Understanding neurodivergence requires a compassionate and non-pathological lens.

Societal standards often fail to accommodate neurodiverse individuals.

Communication needs vary greatly among neurodiverse people.

Intersectionality plays a crucial role in understanding neurodiverse experiences.

Access to care is a significant barrier for many neurodiverse individuals.

Self-diagnosis can be a valid and empowering process.

Community support is essential for neurodiverse individuals.

Therapists should be aware of systemic issues affecting their clients.

Exploration and play are vital in understanding one's neurodiverse identity.

Mentioned in this Episode: NeeDoh https://myneedoh.com/

Queer Moment of Joy Guest 1: Manny They/Them @projectqla

Queer Moment of Joy Guest 2: Sage She/They @e_sage_

Hosts Bio: 

Kristen Crowe LPCC, BC-DMT (they/them) Is Licensed Therapist, Dance Therapist, and Clinical Supervisor with Open Space Therapy Collective. Kristen specializes in working somatically with adults and partners to help heal the mind-body connection so you can feel more grounded and vibrant every day.

Ernesto Martinez APCC, AMFT (they/elle/he/el) is an Associate Therapist with Open Space Therapy Collective. Ernesto specializes in working with Adults, Teens, & Parents of Gender Expansive Children, Adult Children of (im)Migrants to transform challenges into stepping stones towards self-compassion, fulfillment, and confidence. 

🌈 About Open Space Therapy Collective

Open Space Therapy Collective (OSTC) is a queer- and trans-led mental health collective built on the belief that therapy should feel like a place where every part of you belongs. Our team of LGBTQ+ and QTPOC therapists create space for healing that is affirming, justice-driven, and rooted in community care. From navigating identity to unpacking trauma to celebrating joy, OSTC is here for the full spectrum of queer experience.

To find more from us visit:

Website: https://www.openspacetherapycollective.com

Instagram: @openspacetherapycollective 

TikTok: @openspacetherapy 

Spotify: @MyTherapistisOut 

Apple Podcasts: @mytherapistisout

YouTube: @openspacetherapycollective

Keywords: neurodiversity, neurodivergence, therapy, mental health, queer identity, self-diagnosis, community support, societal standards, communication, intersectionality