What Does It Mean to Be Neurodivergent?
Neurodivergent is an everyday word, not a clinical diagnosis. It describes a person whose brain processes information, learns, communicates, or manages attention in ways that differ from what is considered typical (often called neurotypical). (Rudy, 2024) Some of those differences show up as challenges at home or in the classroom, while others show up as real strengths, such as deep focus, strong memory, or creative problem solving. At RISE Pediatric Therapies (RPT), we support neurodivergent children and their families with routine-based therapy delivered at our Mesa and Surprise clinics. Contact us at (480) 295-4925 to learn more. We proudly serve families throughout the Phoenix East Valley, West Valley, Tucson, and surrounding areas in Arizona.
Neurodivergent Examples
Neurodivergence is an umbrella term. It covers several developmental differences that are lifelong and are not the same thing as a mental illness or an intellectual disability, although they can occur together. Common examples include:
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Learning differences such as dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia
- Tourette syndrome and other tic disorders
- Developmental language disorder and related communication differences
- Sensory processing differences and developmental coordination disorder (dyspraxia)
Neurodivergent vs. Neurotypical: What Is the Difference?
Neurotypical simply describes the range of thinking, learning, and social behavior that most people fall into. Neurodivergent describes brains that work outside that range. Neither label says anything about intelligence or potential. Many children are both neurodivergent and gifted, and every child has a mix of strengths and areas where support helps.
Is My Child Neurodivergent?
Only a qualified professional can determine whether a child meets criteria for a specific diagnosis. Parents in Arizona often notice early signs such as delayed speech, difficulty with transitions, big reactions to sounds or textures, trouble with attention or following multi-step directions, or play that looks different from peers. Please note that RPT does not provide diagnoses, and a diagnosis is not required to begin most of our services. If you have concerns, we can evaluate your child’s skills and point you toward the right next step.
No two neurodivergent children look alike, so our care starts with understanding your child rather than a label. Our clinicians evaluate strengths and needs, then recommend the therapies that fit your child and your family’s routines. Depending on your child’s age and goals, support at RISE Pediatric Therapies in Arizona may include:
- Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy and school readiness programs, offered in partnership with Advanced Autism Center for Treatment (AACT)
- Speech and language therapy, including feeding therapy
- Occupational therapy for fine motor, sensory processing, and daily living skills
- Physical therapy and Certified Dynamic Movement Intervention (DMI)
- Caregiver and parent coaching so progress continues at home
- Early intervention through the Arizona Early Intervention Program (AzEIP) for children from birth to age 3
Kids who get consistent, early support tend to make bigger gains across communication, motor skills, social-emotional development, and getting ready for school. We are not trying to change who your child is. We want to give your child tools, and give you strategies, that work at home, in class, and out in the community.
Start your support journey today
Why Choose Us
Compassionate, family-oriented care.
Person-focused programs led by your child’s coordinated care team and designed alongside family and caregivers.
Exceptional caregiver and parent coaching for the best outcomes for your child.
In-home, in-community, and in-office services with flexible scheduling.
Support for Neurodivergent Children Across Arizona
Whether your child has a diagnosis or you simply have questions, RISE Pediatric Therapies is here with evaluations, individualized therapy, and caregiver coaching for neurodivergent children in Arizona. Call (480) 295-4925 or get started online. Our clinics are in Mesa and Surprise, and families come to us from Chandler, Gilbert, Tempe, Glendale, Queen Creek, Peoria and the surrounding areas.