Square Peg is a neurodiversity-affirming psychotherapy collective specializing in counseling adults with Autism and/or ADHD. Sessions will be offered in-office or virtually for residents of Nashville, and virtually for residents of Tennessee.

With most resources directed towards children, it can be difficult for adults with Autism and ADHD to find informed and affirming providers.

Neurodivergent folks are often expected to perform and conform to neurotypical expectations, and this can include care models. Therapy that is not able to adapt to and understand neurodivergent clients can be harmful, ineffective, or lead to more masking.

Square Peg seeks to support the neurodivergent population through counseling and counselor training that respects these unique struggles, and unique versions of health.

In this context, we are referring to adults with neurodevelopmental differences. This includes Autism, ADHD, Learning disorders, Giftedness or Twice Exceptional. Broader understandings of the term include OCD and Bipolar disorder, due to their biological nature. 

Neurodiversity is the concept that there are a variety of ways that people's brains process information, function, and present behaviorally. Rather than thinking there is something wrong or problematic when some people don't operate similarly to others, neurodiversity embraces these differences.

The neurodivergent care model, also known as neurodiversity-affirming care, is a person-centered approach that values and supports the strengths and differences of people with neurodivergent conditions. It views neurodivergence as a distinct brain style or neurotype that's an integral part of a person's identity, rather than a flaw that needs to be corrected. The model also acknowledges that there's natural variation in human cognitive function and that neurodivergent people are experts in neurodiversity.

Neurodiversity-affirming therapy emphasizes understanding and valuing neurodiversity as a natural variation in human cognition and behavior. Unlike traditional approaches that may focus on "fixing" or "normalizing" behaviors, this approach aims to support clients in embracing their neurodivergent traits and developing strategies that work best for their individual needs and strengths.

We also adhere to a set of principles that include validating clients' experiences, avoiding pathologizing language, and fostering a collaborative therapeutic relationship. Feedback from clients is regularly sought to ensure our approach remains supportive and effective.

Therapy is customized based on each client's specific neurodivergent traits, personal experiences, and goals. Our therapists use a variety of techniques and interventions, adapting them to fit the client's preferred communication style, sensory preferences, and cognitive strengths.

Square Peg currently offers virtual individual counseling sessions for clients in Tennessee.

As Square Peg grows, we hope to soon offer couples counseling, group therapy, and workshops.

Square Peg also offers training and education for other health and educational professionals.

No, Square Peg does not offer formal assessments at this time.

Absolutely! We work with clients regardless of whether they have a formal diagnosis. We recognize that neurodiversity exists on a spectrum and that many individuals may exhibit neurodivergent traits without a formal diagnosis. Our goal is to support each client's unique needs and experiences.