Autistic people, ADHDers, and others with sensory processing differences are frequently misunderstood, underdiagnosed, and underserved in rural and remote mental health systems. Services built around neurotypical expectations often misinterpret neurodivergent behaviours, leading to misdiagnosis, disengagement, or harm. These challenges are compounded by systemic barriers, including limited access to diagnosis, clinician knowledge gaps, and a lack of sensory-safe or inclusive care.

This presentation is led by a neurodivergent, disabled therapist and credentialed mental health nurse with more than 30 years of experience, currently completing a Master of Psychology. Drawing on lived experience and clinical practice, I explore how rural services can better support neurodivergent people through inclusive, peer-informed approaches grounded in real community needs.

I will share practical examples from my work, including telehealth adaptations that support executive functioning and sensory regulation, co-designed tools that improve therapeutic engagement, and community education programs that challenge neuronormative assumptions. These strategies are cost-effective, scalable, and designed to centre dignity, autonomy, and accessibility.

This session encourages practitioners, service providers, and decision-makers to reflect on current practices, recognise unmet needs, and engage with neurodivergent people not only as clients but as leaders and partners in the transformation of rural mental health care.