Give me any problem and I'll give you the solution--and it'll always be kindness.
Loneliness? Lack of kindness.
Mental health problems? Lack of kindness.
People are treating you poorly, or your boss isn't paying you enough? Lack of kindness.
The answer is always kindness.
Welcome
HI. This space is a digital sanctuary for thinkers, creators, and collaborators. We believe in the power of open dialogue and collective growth. Explore the pathways below to dive into our shared resources and projects.
What is Neurodivergence?
It's a Different Operating System: Like Mac or PC. Brains naturally vary. These differences are valuable, not defects.
Neurotypical Processing
- Top-Down Processing: Sees the big picture first, then details.
- Social Rules & Harmony: Prioritizes group cohesion, indirect communication.
- Multitasking: Good at juggling many tasks.
- Filtered Senses: Tunes out background noise.
- Strengths: The Farmer, Diplomat, Builder (social, stable, community-focused).
Neurodivergent Processing
- Bottom-Up Processing: Sees details first, then the big picture.
- Direct & Logical: Prefers clear, literal communication; eye contact can be overwhelming.
- Hyperfocus: Deep dives into specific interests.
- Heightened Senses: Aware of all sensory input.
- Strengths: The Hunter, Watcher, Innovator (focused, innovative, morally consistent).
The Problem: A Mismatch
Modern society's neurotypical demands can disable neurodivergent individuals.
- Unspoken Social Rules: Expectations of neurotypical communication lead to burnout and self-betrayal.
- Rigid Societal Demands: 9-to-5 schedules and overstimulating environments are not built for neurodivergent processing.
The Solution: Cultural Competence
Build a shared language, drop assumptions, and create environments that value all operating systems.
Key Fact: Neurodivergence is not an intellectual or language disability.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Unique social/sensory processing, focused interests.
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Differences in attention regulation, impulsivity, hyperactivity. Often creative and hyperfocused.
Connect Korner (a forum for the kind to connect)
A place for thinkers to connect, collaborate, and share ideas.
The Problem
Social Disconnection: Our "third places" are gone. We are more connected, and yet more isolated, than ever. Social media has become a fractured reality, and we need to bridge the gap and bring awareness to our shared experiences.
Systemic Invalidation: Clinical diagnostics often blame the individual rather than the system. We need better tools for understanding trauma, better tools for therapy, and better treatment that validates lived experience instead of dismissing it. This work is rooted in anti-racism and LGBTQ+ inclusivity.
The Central Dialectic: A Bell Curve of Mental Health
Healthy functioning exists in a state of flexible equilibrium. Pathology emerges at the extremes of too much structure (rigidity) or too much creativity (chaos).
Oscillation Between Extremes
Some conditions, like Bipolar Disorder, can be seen as a violent swing between the two poles.
The Path of Least Resistance—The Solution
This space is my response. It's where I share tools for therapy, research, and understanding neurodivergence. The core of this work is finding the balance between Creativity & Structure. It's all grounded in my Interwoven Roots Theory, which seeks to prevent harm by building kinder systems.
Want to know when my book on this theory is ready? Sign up for exclusive updates.
Self-Compassion
Sensory Supports and Advice👾
The world is overwhelming, take some time and space to settle in.
🧠 Manage Your Sensory Needs
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Fix Your Space: Use calming scents (like coffee or essential oils) or adjust lighting to make your environment feel safe and comfortable.
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Plan a "Sensory Diet": Build a routine of activities to keep your nervous system calm: use a weighted blanket, exercise, or listen to curated playlists with noise-canceling headphones.
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Ease Transitions: Make hard sensory shifts (like getting out of the shower) easier with soft towels, comfy clothes, and a simple calming routine afterward.
❤️ Protect Your Emotional Energy
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Set Firm Boundaries: Practice saying "I need a break" or "I don't have energy for this." Plan your exit from social events ahead of time. Leaving early is okay.
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Schedule Recharge Time: After being social, plan for intentional alone time with your interests. Honor your natural sleep patterns whenever possible.
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Use the "Spoon Theory": Think of your energy as "spoons." Each task costs a spoon. This helps you manage your energy without self-judgment. When you're out, you're out.
About Me 👾
Vivian Mitchell
MA, APCC, Ph.D. student
Greetings! My name is Vivian (they/them) and I'm a pscyhology-enjoyer, poetry enthusiast, and practicing psychotherapist. I'm also in training to become a psychologist, and I currently work as an APCC in private practice, focusing on differential diagnosis, clinical assessment and evaluation, person-centered approaches, and neurodiversity. My work is dedicated to creating validating, person-centered tools that challenge systemic invalidation. My focus is on neurodiversity, trauma, and the LGBTQ+ community, blending evidence-based practices with the humanistic need for creativity and connection. This space is where I share my work to help build kinder, more effective systems for therapy and understanding.
Resource Hub 👾
OCD
ASD/ADHD
Free Resources/Tools
- Masking?
- Support/Accommodations for NDs
- Creativity & Structure
- Creativity & Structure (Printer Friendly)
- The "why" behind balance
- Free Sensory Game (Printable)
- Free Printable Planner Pages (Daily)
- ♡ ADHD Med Psychoed ♡
- Weekly Planner (downloadable)
- Anxiety reducing suggestions
For Clinicians
Creative Works & Socials
Daily Game Plan
A Dynamic Task Manager