Episode 58: Neurodiversity at Work: A Clinician Explains Why Accommodations Go Wrong & How to Do Better
- Sarah Russell
- 1 day ago
- 1 min read
Featuring Matthew Seneshen, clinical counselor & educator specializing in neurodiversity and workplace mental health
How do you survive at work when the system expects you to prove you’re struggling before it offers help?
In this episode, we explore:
Neurodiversity & Identity
Early diagnosis, dysgraphia, and processing differences
Shifting from “broken” to understanding neurodivergence as natural variation
Workplace Reality
Why accommodations often fail in real-world settings
The gap between inclusive policies and actual day-to-day experiences
Stigma, “othering,” and the pressure to self-disclose
Systems & Models
Medical model vs. social model of disability
Introducing the biopsychosocial approach to workplace support
Why workplaces struggle to implement meaningful change
Universal Design & Solutions
Moving from individual accommodations to universal workplace design
Collaborative, proactive support instead of reactive gatekeeping
Why supporting all workers improves outcomes (and retention)
Self-Advocacy & Boundaries
How to communicate needs without over-pathologizing yourself
Knowing your “line” at work before burnout hits
Navigating conflict with managers and systems
Mental Health & Meaning
Separating your worth from productivity
Values-based work and identity outside of your job
Grief, burnout, and rebuilding a sense of self
Key Questions Answered in the Audio:
Why do workplaces require proof of struggle before offering support?
How do you know in advance if an accommodation will be helpful or sustainable?
How do you advocate for yourself without oversharing or stigmatizing yourself?
Looking For Matt?
Email: Contact@walktalkcounselling.com
Connect With Us!
Follow us on all the socials @NDreportpod
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