What Is Masking?

Masking is a term commonly used to describe suppressing or concealing neurodivergent characteristics in order to meet social expectations.

Not every neurodivergent person experiences masking the same way.

For some people, it may mean forcing eye contact.

For others, hiding sensory discomfort, scripting conversations or suppressing self-regulating behaviours.

Strategies developed for navigating particular environments can sometimes be useful.

But constantly monitoring yourself can also be exhausting.

Affirming Therapy Isn't About Producing "Normal"

Neurodiversity-affirming therapy begins with respect for neurological difference.

Autism and ADHD don't automatically become problems that need removing.

Instead, therapy can explore what is actually causing distress.

Is the problem an autistic trait?

Or an environment that continually overwhelms your sensory system?

Is ADHD itself the problem?

Or have years of missed deadlines and criticism created shame and anxiety around tasks?

Those distinctions matter.

AuDHD Can Feel Contradictory

Being both autistic and ADHD can involve seemingly competing needs.

"I desperately need routine."
"I cannot tolerate doing the same thing every day."

Both can be true.

Affirming therapy can help you understand these patterns rather than criticizing yourself for inconsistency.

Virtual Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapy in Timmins

Redbird Therapy describes its psychotherapy as individualized and collaborative, with therapists drawing from different techniques according to each client's needs.

Virtual therapy can also remove some environmental demands for clients in Timmins. You may be able to attend from a familiar space, use sensory supports and avoid transportation demands.