Neurodiversity Coaching Academy

Neurodivergent individuals living and working in neurotypical environments are often faced with the question of how much to reveal about how they process information and what working conditions support them. We all are told to be ourselves, but that is not always a safe option for neurodivergent people in their work or home environments. Instead, they mask.

Masking involves creating a persona that is acceptable in an environment where being themselves would not be safe. As the self-presentation research reveals, we all do this to an extent on a regular basis. Masking, however, is a deeper break from the person’s natural way of being, requires energy to maintain, and can result in depression and anxiety over time.

As coaches, we need to provide a safe space for our clients to examine their masks and how they use them. We need to help them discern what safety might look like, how they can self-protect with less harm to themselves, and how they can express more of their authentic selves in the world.