The Hairy Book: A soft approach for your teen about their potential neurodiversity.

If your child, teen or loved one is at the very beginning of their journey into identifying potential neurodiversity, it can feel scary or overwhelming. For parents, who are cautious about pushing their child into a diagnosis - it may feel like one step forward in progress, then several steps back.

There is alot of different information online which can feel daunting to anyone at the beginning so let's look at Amelia's soft entry approach into helping your child or loved one to feel a sense of autonomy over pace and process with creating the "Hairy Book".

The advice Amelia gives to parents curious about their child's (or their own) neurodiversity starts with a copy of Chanelle Moriahs "This is ADHD" or "I am Autistic" book and a set of post-it note tabs.

The soft entry into learning and understanding ADHD

The books are incredibly comprehensive, in outlining all the various traits associated with Autism and ADHD. Having all the correct and factual in one place is key to lessening overwhelm and information fatigue.

The soft colours and illustrations of young people help teens to relate to the imagery rather than a sterile looking diagnostic book for adults. However, many adult clients enjoy the aesthetic and clear layout of the information which is why this is such a useful tool across all ages.

How does it help Teens identify potential neurodiversity?

As your loved one goes through the book, if there is a page with an ADHD / Autistic trait that they may relate to (A little or a lot) tab the page regardless. As they go through the content and tab the relatable traits, at the end if there are alot of tabs making the book "hairy" it may suggest an opportunity to explore more with a qualified Gold Coast psychologist with experience in neurodiversity.

Gentle understanding and education is key to allow the individual to come to their own conclusions about themselves and potential neurodiversity.

If you are interested in Chanelles' Book we have them available in-clinic and in our website shop here.

All purchases of "This is ADHD", "I am Autistic" and "I am Dyslexic" from our online and clinic store will receive a set of post it tabs included as a freebie from us.

If you have a "Hairy" book and are ready to take the next step to book in for a formal ADHD or Autism Assessment in the Gold Coast, you can have a read of our recent blog to meet our team and see who might be a good fit for your teen (or your own) needs.

Please note, This book recommendation is not sponsored or affiliated with the author in anyway and should not replace advice from your healthcare professional or act as a formal diagnostic tool. It is simply a soft guide into empowering and education for you or your loved one about neurodiversity.

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At The Neurodiverse Network, we’re a neuro-affirming psychology clinic based in Burleigh Heads, Gold Coast, offering ADHD and Autism assessments, therapy, and NDIS supports for children, teens, and adults.

Our team of psychologists provide neurodiversity-affirming care, recognising and celebrating the strengths of every individual.

We provide a range of services including:

• ADHD assessments and therapy for adults and children

• Autism assessments and support across the lifespan

• Individual counselling and emotional regulation support

• NDIS psychology and functional capacity assessments

• Neurodiverse support groups and online workshops

  
  

Our psychologists draw on lived experience and evidence-based approaches to create a space where neurodivergent people feel safe, understood, and empowered.

Whether you’re seeking a Clinical Psychologist on the Gold Coast, a neuro-affirming therapist near Burleigh Heads, or NDIS support, our team is here to help you navigate your journey with compassion and clarity.

Located in Burleigh Heads on the Gold Coast — close to Miami, Palm Beach, Robina, and Varsity Lakes.

Learn more about our neuro-affirming care or book an ADHD or Autism assessment here.