Neurodivergence & LGBTQIA+ Identity: Busting Common Myths About MentalHealth

Neurodivergence & LGBTQIA+ Identity: Busting Common Myths About Mental Health

By Amy-Ann Broomhall – Registered Psychologist at The Neurodiverse Network, Gold Coast.

As a Gold Coast psychologist who specialises in neuro-affirming and gender-affirming care, I’m often asked about the overlap between neurodivergence and LGBTQIA+ identities.

In my practice, I work with many people whose experiences of the world don’t fit

neatly into one box or category. Some neurodivergent (i.e., autistic, ADHD, dyslexic,

OCD etc) are also a part of LGBTQIA+ community.

These identities often intersect in rich, complex and deeply human ways. Yet despite

growing awareness, myths and misconceptions still circulate about what this

intersection means for mental health and identity. Let’s take a closer look and bust

some of the most common ones.

“Are neurodivergent people more likely to identify as LGBTQIA+?”

Yes.

In Australia, about 4.5% of people aged 16+ identify as LGBTQIA+ (that’s over 900,000

people) according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (2022). Research also shows

that autistic people are 3–6 times more likely to identify as transgender compared with their neurotypical peers, and up to 70% of autistic individuals may identify as

non-heterosexual in some studies.

In short, living at this intersection means both greater richness and sometimes

greater vulnerability. For many, these identities contribute to deep self-awareness,

resilience, and creativity; but can also mean facing misunderstanding or exclusion

from multiple directions.

Myth 1: “Neurodivergence causes confusion about gender or sexuality.”

Reality:

This misconception can be deeply harmful. Neurodivergence doesn’t cause

LGBTQIA+ identity. However, many neurodivergent people describe thinking more

deeply about identity and social norms (including gender and sexuality) because

they naturally question expectations others take for granted.

When the world says, “This is how you should be,” neurodivergent brains often reply,

“But why?” This reflective quality can actually support authenticity and help people

live in alignment with their true selves.

Myth 2: “Talking about identity makes things worse.”

Reality:

Avoiding conversations about identity can actually increase anxiety, isolation, and

internalised shame. For many, being seen and accepted as their whole self,

neurotype, gender, sexuality and all, is the foundation of mental wellbeing.

Exploring identity openly can foster self-acceptance, belonging, and community

connection. Therapy that integrates both neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+

perspectives helps clients move from surviving to thriving in authenticity.

“What can I do if I identify at this intersection, or support someone who does?”

• Find a provider who uses neuro-affirming and gender-affirming language and

approaches.

• Emphasise strengths and identity pride, both neurodivergence and LGBTQIA+

identity bring richness, community and resilience.

• Seek environments that are accessible, sensory-friendly, and respectful of

autonomy and self-definition.

• Recognise intersectional vulnerabilities: mental health risks can increase

when stigma or misunderstanding compounds across multiple identities.

Conclusion

Being both neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ isn’t something to overcome. It’s

something to understand, honour and celebrate. With the right support, people at this

intersection can experience profound growth, self-knowing and wellbeing.

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Amy-Ann Broomhall is a Gold Coast psychologist who provides neuro-affirming, gender-affirming care for neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ individuals. Amy is now also offering WPATH assessments for adults 18+ to support access to gender-affirming healthcare and is a proud member of AUSPATH.

Amy offers support for neurodivergent individuals across the lifespan. Through Autism, ADHD, and cognitive assessments on the Gold Coast, and provide care that helps individuals understand and embrace their neurodivergent identity.

Amy's areas of interest include supporting anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, mood fluctuations, and emotional intensity; building confidence and self-worth; exploring sensory, eating, and body image needs; developing emotional regulation tools; navigating substance use and fear-based responses; and offering gender-affirming, neuroinclusive care across the lifespan.

Amy is available for appointments now at The Neurodiverse Network, in Burleigh Heads on the Gold Coast. Please click here to check her availability or click here for more information about how to book in an in-clinic or telehealth appointment.