You’ve probably heard the term neurodivergent a lot lately — especially in conversations about autism. But what does it actually mean? Is being neurodivergent the same thing as being autistic?
Not exactly — but they’re closely connected. Autism is one type of neurodivergence, meaning every autistic person is neurodivergent, but not every neurodivergent person is autistic.
What “Neurodivergent” Really Means
Being neurodivergent simply means that a person’s brain works differently from what’s considered “typical.” It’s not about being better or worse — just different.
The neurodivergent community includes people with:
- Autism
- ADHD
- Dyslexia or dyscalculia
- Tourette’s syndrome
- Dyspraxia (coordination differences)
- Other learning or developmental differences
So, when we say someone is neurodivergent, we’re talking about how their brain processes information, communicates, and experiences the world — and that can look very different from person to person.
How Autism Fits Into Neurodiversity
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is one of the most well-known types of neurodivergence. People with autism often experience the world in ways that are unique and sometimes more intense.
Common autistic traits include:
- Communicating in different ways (sometimes using few words or gestures)
- Repetitive movements like rocking, hand-flapping, or tapping
- Deep focus or special interests in specific topics
- Sensory differences — being sensitive to sound, light, or textures
- A strong need for structure and routine
- Difficulty reading social cues, but still wanting real connection
These traits aren’t flaws — they’re just part of how the autistic brain works. Understanding this helps us see autism as a different way of being, not something that needs to be “fixed.”
Embracing Neurodiversity
The neurodiversity movement encourages everyone to see differences in the brain the same way we see differences in culture or personality. Instead of focusing on what someone can’t do, it emphasizes what they can — and how they can thrive when supported in the right way.
Autistic and neurodivergent people bring creativity, focus, empathy, and unique problem-solving skills to the world. The goal isn’t to change them — it’s to understand and support them.
Helping Neurodivergent Children Grow and Thrive
Every neurodivergent child deserves care that respects their individuality.
Precious Care ABA offers tailored in-home ABA therapy and ABA therapy at daycare designed to help children with autism and other developmental differences build essential communication, social, and life skills.
Families in New Jersey and Utah trust our compassionate team to provide consistent, meaningful support — helping every child reach their full potential.
Contact Precious Care ABA today to learn how specialized ABA therapy can help your neurodivergent child grow with confidence.
FAQs
Is every autistic person neurodivergent?
Yes. Autism is one type of neurodivergence — it simply means their brain processes the world differently.
Can someone be neurodivergent without being autistic?
Absolutely. People with ADHD, dyslexia, or other neurological differences are also neurodivergent, even if they’re not autistic.
How can families support neurodivergent children?
The best support comes from understanding, patience, and access to therapies like ABA that focus on communication, life skills, and emotional growth.
Sources:
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/23154-neurodivergent
- https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-neurodivergence-and-what-does-it-mean-to-be-neurodivergent-5196627
- https://www.nm.org/healthbeat/healthy-tips/Understanding-Neurodiversity
- https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/topics/identity/autism-and-neurodiversity
- https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/what-is-neurodiversity-202111232645
