Diana Houghton 8/13/25 Diana Houghton 8/13/25

The Impact of Internalized Behavioral Criticism on Neurodivergent Children

Persistent behavioral criticism of neurodivergent children can lead to lasting self-esteem challenges and emotional distress, with deeper impacts than those experienced by neurotypical peers. Affirming their unique needs fosters resilience and self-acceptance.

Diana Houghton 8/8/25 Diana Houghton 8/8/25

Understanding Sensory Issues in Neurodivergent Individuals and Pathways to Accommodation

Neurodivergent individuals often face sensory processing challenges that impact daily life. Therapists can help identify these needs and advocate for accommodations to foster inclusivity and well-being.

Diana Houghton 8/7/25 Diana Houghton 8/7/25

The Grooming Dynamic in Sexual Assault: How Harmless Appearances Can Mask Harmful Intent

Grooming in sexual assault often begins with seemingly harmless actions, masking its true intent. Recognizing these subtle manipulations is key to prevention and protection.

Diana Houghton 7/27/25 Diana Houghton 7/27/25

Navigating Neurodivergent Challenges with Routine Disruptions: A Compassionate Approach

For neurodivergent individuals, routine disruptions can be deeply dysregulating.

Diana Houghton 7/8/25 Diana Houghton 7/8/25

Erotic Confusion and Body Memory in Sexual Assault Survivors

Erotic confusion and body memory in sexual assault survivors are reflexive responses, not signs of consent.

Diana Houghton 7/4/25 Diana Houghton 7/4/25

Theory of Mind Challenges in Neurodivergent Relationships

Neurodivergent individuals may experience challenges with theory of mind, leading to misunderstandings in relationships.

Diana Houghton 6/30/25 Diana Houghton 6/30/25

Trauma Integration and the Ripple Effect

Trauma integration brings clarity and revelation, yet its ripple effect means unresolved layers may surface later, often catching us off guard.

Diana Houghton 6/16/25 Diana Houghton 6/16/25

The Friendship Cycle and Neurodivergent Relationships

Neurodivergent friendship cycles often involve periods of hopeful connection followed by burnout.

Diana Houghton 6/13/25 Diana Houghton 6/13/25

Emotional Back-draft: Navigating Self-Compassion and Healing

Emotional backdraft is the surge of old pain that arises when we first practice self-compassion, signaling not danger but deep healing.

Diana Houghton 6/5/25 Diana Houghton 6/5/25

Autistic Burnout and Co-dependence in Relationships

Autistic burnout and co-dependence often intertwine, creating a cycle of exhaustion and relational strain.

Diana Houghton 6/3/25 Diana Houghton 6/3/25

Autistic Burnout and Relationships: Some Helpful Exercises

Autistic burnout can strain relationships, but somatic and mindful exercises like synchronized breathing or vocal toning can foster connection and co-regulation between partners.

Diana Houghton 6/2/25 Diana Houghton 6/2/25

Resist and Retreat Behaviors in Neurodivergent Individuals

Resist and retreat behaviors in neurodivergent individuals are adaptive strategies, not defiance or disengagement. Understanding these responses fosters self-compassion and relational healing.

Diana Houghton 5/27/25 Diana Houghton 5/27/25

What is Urge Surfing?

Urge surfing is a mindfulness technique that teaches individuals to observe cravings without acting on them, fostering somatic awareness and emotional resilience

Diana Houghton 5/26/25 Diana Houghton 5/26/25

Uneven Capabilities in the Neurodivergent Population

Neurodivergent individuals often exhibit remarkable strengths alongside unique challenges, reflecting the variability of their neurology

Diana Houghton 5/20/25 Diana Houghton 5/20/25

Communication Trauma, CPTSD and the Neurodivergent Nervous System

Communication trauma leaves deep scars in neurodivergent individuals, shaping both mind and body. This article explores how repeated misunderstandings fuel CPTSD and somatic distress through a nervous system lens.