Articles By: Michael Holker MSW, RSW

Michael Holker, MSW, RSW, is a Registered Social Worker and Psychotherapist who practices neurodiversity-affirming therapy and is the founder of Becoming Yourself Counselling and Consulting — a virtual practice based in Toronto that serves adults across Ontario. He works with late-diagnosed and self-identified autistic, ADHD, AuDHD and gifted (2e) adults, bringing lived experience of neurodivergence to a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach. He practises alongside Euodia Leung, MSW, RSW, whose focus is anxiety, depression and self-esteem. Book a free 20-minute meet-and-greet.

Adult building a more supportive life around executive dysfunction in ADHD adults, autistic burnout, sensory overload, and adult ADHD time management challenges.

Apr 24, 2026, 4:00:00 PM

How to Build a Life that Offers Executive Functioning Support

By: Michael Holker BSW, MSW Registered Social Worker | Psychotherapist

Is there a mismatch between...

Woman rediscovering herself after being diagnosed with autism as an adult, moving from masking and self-doubt toward clarity, relief, and identity.

Apr 10, 2026, 4:00:00 PM

Rediscovering Yourself After a Late Diagnosis: What Identity Looks Like on the Other Side

By Michael Holker BSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker | Psychotherapist | Published: July 2026

This...

Mar 27, 2026, 10:00:00 AM

How to Choose a Neurodivergent-Affirming Therapist in Ontario

By Michael Holker BSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker | Psychotherapist | Published: July 2026

This...

Illustration of overwhelmed gifted adult with tangled thoughts representing why traditional goal-oriented therapy fails 2e adults seeking therapy for gifted adults in Ontario.

Mar 13, 2026, 10:00:00 AM

Why Goal-Oriented Therapy Often Misses the Gifted and 2e Adult

Therapy for gifted adults in Ontario requires a unique understanding of the neurodivergent brain.

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Visual metaphor for unmasking autism, depicting autistic masking, internal exhaustion, and autistic burnout symptoms as an individual removes a performed identity to reveal their authentic self.

Feb 27, 2026, 4:00:00 PM

Unmasking Autism and The Hidden Cost of Masking

TL;DR: Strategic Unmasking

Is unmasking autism always the goal? No. Unmasking autism is a...

Conceptual illustration asking “Is giftedness neurodivergent?” depicting the twice exceptional (2e) brain, giftedness with ADHD and autism, and the paradox of brilliance alongside burnout.

Feb 13, 2026, 4:00:00 PM

Is Giftedness Neurodivergent? Understanding the 2e Paradox

Key Takeways

Is giftedness neurodivergent? Many clinicians now describe giftedness as a form of...

Person contemplating what is AuDHD? ADHD Symptoms and autism overlap

Jan 30, 2026, 11:00:00 AM

What Is AuDHD? Understanding the ADHD Autism Overlap

What is AuDHD? For many adults suffering with ADHD symptoms, there feels like something “more” is...

Man struggling with ADHD symptoms sitting overwhelmed, contrasted with adult man receiving therapy support for undiagnosed ADHD symptoms in men during counselling session.

Jan 16, 2026, 1:27:04 PM

ADHD Symptoms in Men & Why So Many Go Undiagnosed

By: Michael Holker BSW, MSW Registered Social Worker | Psychotherapist

What if your struggle to...

Person reacting intensely to perceived rejection, representing RSD symptoms in ADHD and autistic adults.

Dec 23, 2025, 3:27:52 PM

What is Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria & Signs You Experience It

Have you ever felt confused about a situation that ended with a seemingly odd response from someone...

Adult figure transitioning from autistic burnout and sensory overwhelm into a calm space, symbolizing recovery and reduced neurodivergent symptoms.

Dec 12, 2025, 10:00:00 AM

Autistic Burnout: Signs, Causes & How to Recover — A Complete Guide

How do you know if you’re in autistic burnout?

What is Autistic Burnout?

Autistic burnout is a...

Tall Poppy Syndrome for Audhd Indivduals

Nov 5, 2025, 9:34:45 AM

Breaking Free from Tall Poppy Syndrome for AuDHD Adults

“Great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds.”— Albert Einstein

...

young blonde handsome man sits on armchair thinking what to do

Oct 29, 2025, 9:40:20 PM

Why Neurodivergent Men Struggle to Recognize Their Own Needs

"The most important thing in communication is hearing what isn't said." — Peter Drucker

The day...

Welcome,

We’re glad you’re here. Dive into articles, tools, and insights designed to help you better understand yourself, grow, and feel great. Whether you’re exploring neurodivergence, seeking tips for emotional balance, or simply learning more, we hope these resources support your journey.

Anecdotes and Confidentiality

Personal anecdotes bring ideas to life and foster connection. The identifying details have been changed to ensure confidentiality. These stories illustrate concepts, acknowledging that everyone’s journey is unique.

Disclaimer

This information is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please consult a healthcare provider regarding any medical concerns. I am a registered social worker offering psychotherapy services to Ontario residents. For a complimentary Meet & Greet or more on my practice, reach out!

We hope these resources help you pursue a more authentic, meaningful life.