Articles By: Michael Holker MSW, RSW

Michael Holker, MSW, RSW, is a Registered Social Worker 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.

Tall Poppy Syndrome for Audhd Indivduals

Nov 5, 2025, 9:34:45 AM

Why Success Makes Us Want to Disappear: Tall Poppy Syndrome in Neurodivergent Adults

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

...

Illustration of a thoughtful man sitting in a parked car outside his warmly lit home at dusk.

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...

a worried man standing with crossed arms between two coworkers having a difficult conversation in an office setting.”

Oct 28, 2025, 9:57:02 AM

How to Set Boundaries at Work When You’re Neurodivergent (and Why It Feels So Hard)

"When we avoid difficult conversations, we trade short-term discomfort for long-term dysfunction."...

Illustration of an adult holding a warm mug at a sunlit kitchen table, with a snack and headphones nearby.hones nearby.

Oct 13, 2025, 9:49:52 AM

Self-Compassion Practices for Neurodivergent Burnout — A Kinder Path to Recovery

By Michael Holker, MSW, RSW | Published July 2026

What Self-Compassion Actually Is — And What It...

Illustration of two adults sharing a relaxed conversation on a park bench beneath leafy trees.

Oct 8, 2025, 10:51:53 AM

Neurodivergent Relationships: How to Build Authentic Connection

Neurodivergent relationships are relationships in which one or both people are neurodivergent, such...

Illustration of a sensory-safe living room with warm colours, soft lighting, plants, and comfortable seating for a calmer, neurodivergent-friendly home.

Oct 3, 2025, 11:30:41 AM

Creating Sensory-Safe Spaces at Home: Practical Solutions for a Calmer, Neurodivergent-Friendly Environment

"Within you, there is a stillness and a sanctuary to which you can retreat at any time and be...

Visual Representation of Masking showing overlapping faces

Sep 23, 2025, 10:04:29 AM

Unmasking in Everyday Life: How Neurodivergent Adults Unmask Safely

Unmasking is the gradual process of reducing the strategies you use to hide autistic or ADHD...

ADHD Strengths based approach to Executive Functioning

Sep 22, 2025, 10:08:11 AM

ADHD Executive Dysfunction Isn’t a Character Flaw: A Strengths-Based Reframe

"What looks like chaos from one angle may be creativity from another.”

When people talk about...

Illustration of a man relaxing in an armchair beside an open window, with a closed laptop in the background.

Sep 15, 2025, 8:48:58 AM

Why Rest is Productive: Redefining Work for Neurodivergent Minds

By Michael Holker, MSW, RSW · Updated October 2026

"Almost everything will work again if you unplug...

Illustration of an adult wearing headphones and resting in a comfortable armchair beside a sunlit window.

Sep 12, 2025, 10:02:09 AM

Trauma-Informed Care for Neurodivergent Adults: Why Trauma Feels Different and What Helps

Trauma-informed care for neurodivergent adults is therapy that recognizes how invalidation, sensory...

Illustration of an adult with short auburn hair and glasses arranging colourful stones on a shelf with books, plants, and artwork.

Sep 11, 2025, 7:30:52 AM

The Role of Identity in Neurodivergent Healing

"I am not what happened to me. I am what I choose to become." — Carl Jung

By Michael Holker, MSW,...

Aug 6, 2025, 11:24:08 PM

10 ADHD Coping Strategies for Adults That Actually Work

ADHD coping strategies for adults are approaches that help manage attention, time, emotions and...

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.