Neurodiversity affirming mental health supports and counselling therapy for adults at Infinity Minds in the Annapolis Valley of Nova Scotia Canada, Ruth-anne Donellsen RCT-Candidate

As a late-discovered Autistic person and parent of two neurodivergent teens, I recognize the importance of identity and its development throughout the lifespan, especially intersecting identities that define our individual and collective lives, and how others see and treat us. Mental Health is so much more than self-care and individual perspective, it is also deeply affected by systemic discrimination based on ableism, racism, gendered norms, privilege and oppression in all its varieties. This is why my work always involves a focus on social justice and affecting change within the individual client, but also in the society in which they reside.

Committed to client-driven, strength-based therapy, I collaborate closely to customize approaches that transcend traditional talk-therapy, and can incorporate a more pragmatic focus that includes coaching and advocacy.

Working with neurodivergent adults is my passion, and for my Autistic clients in particular I utilize a lived-experience and evidence-based Autistic Centered Therapy (AuCT) model. I have focused on understanding the variability in Autistic lived experience – not just my own, and have attended the most up-to-date workshops, conferences, and trainings that centre Autistic experience, including Autistic driven research, and professional expertise.

My inclusive approach caters to adults navigating diverse intersections of identity, encompassing culture, religiosity, gender, communication, disability, and socioeconomic factors. Operating from a non-judgmental, anti-ableist, neurodiversity and gender-affirming stance.

I provide a trauma-informed, safe, and supportive environment. Sessions with me offer a diverse range of techniques, adapting to your preferences, limitations, and needs. This may include in-office or virtual therapy, text messaging, movement therapy, creative arts, skill development, advocacy, boundary work, coaching, and more.

Prioritizing accessibility, I encourage the use of alternative communication forms for those with varied use and access to speech. Any suggestions to enhance our time together are encouraged. I offer 60 and 90 minute single-session, short-term and long-term counselling online and in-person depending on location, need, topics addressed, and resources. Local house calls may be possible for those unable to leave their home.