I’m late-diagnosed Autistic and have ADHD.

Hi! I’m Lauren. 🙂

A couple years ago I started exploring if I am autistic with my therapist, and pursued official diagnosis this year. Because I am a licensed therapist, I was tired of gaslighting myself and needed to know for sure, almost as if I needed proof as to why I have always felt so different.

Self diagnosis is incredibly valid for many reasons, but supporting others with their mental health and for people in my life I felt I needed official diagnosis in addition with creating more safety for me to unmask.

When the psychologist told me she saw three separate constellations for PTSD, ADHD, and Autism, the flood gates opened as I felt the most seen I’ve ever felt in my entire life. And like I could finally exhale and stop fighting myself.

What followed was relief that I get to finally start trusting myself fully, and grief for my younger self not knowing why she struggled the ways she did.

My intentions are to share my unmasking journey, how autism and adhd present differently for girls and women, and advocating for neurodivergence and mental health.

I also plan to share my adventures with my golden retriever Lennon (like John) and more of my life as an AuDHD woman.

It’s nice to meet you, and I look forward to meeting more in this community, as I continue on my unmasking journey. 🌻

Kalispell #mentalhealth #autisminwomen #adhdlife #autism #therapistsoflemon8 #therapy