“I’m neuro-spicy.” That’s what my client said she had been told on a recent date.

She had met a woman, someone who intrigued her with her wit and charm.

The first few interactions were wonderful, but as my client got to know this woman better, she noticed unusual behaviors, like missing social cues and being easily overwhelmed when completing simple tasks.

As these small gestures became more frequent and noticeable, my client, curious and concerned, decided to bring it up.

The woman said, “I’m neurodivergent. That’s what I meant when I said I’m neuro-spicy.” The term “neurodivergent” refers to individuals with variations in neurological development and functioning and typically includes those who have been diagnosed with conditions such as autism, ADHD, and dyslexia.

In recent years, I have observed a notable increase in BIPOC clients curious about neurodivergence.

For this particular client, being a Black, queer woman was challenging enough; she was confused about why another Black person would want to identify as neurodivergent, given the numerous barriers Black individuals already face, including lack of resources, cultural stigma, and systemic biases. To foster a deeper understanding of our collective diversity, the Black community must explore the unique intersection of neurodivergence and Black experiences. Identifying as neurodivergent can offer Black individuals a sense of validation and understanding, helping them make sense of their unique experiences and challenges while also connecting them to a supportive community that acknowledges the intersection of race and neurodiversity.

Neurodivergence encompasses a range of developmental conditions characterized by challenges in social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors, varying from highly functional individuals to those needing significant support. Recognizing neurodivergent traits involves understanding a spectrum of cognitive, emotional, and sensory experiences that differ from the neurotypical norm, such as sensory sensitivities, difficulty with executive functioning, intense focus on specific interests, social communication differences, and stimming behaviors. For Black communities,........

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