Today we’d like to introduce you to Kory Andreas
Hi Kory , so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
For 20 years, I navigated the complex world of public, private, and non-public school systems as a School Social Worker and clinical supervisor. Surrounded by kids who didn’t quite fit the mold, I reveled in immersing myself in the helping relationship with teens and transforming traditional therapy models. My work there was flexible and independent, and I loved working on the front lines with the students. I was able to use my creativity in ways that would have never been possible in an outpatient setting. Much of my work was with Neurospicy teens, the LGBTQ teen community, and I had a big focus on suicide prevention and promoting acceptance and county wide policy changes for trans students.
When the pandemic upended the the educational world, my passion for Neurodivergence compelled me to “do more.” I was frequently being told that public school procedures were the reason why Autistic kids couldn’t be identified or receive the supports they so desperately needed, so I started my private practice the day the schools shut down, and never looked back. I created a therapy practice where I could not only promote acceptance but celebrate the unique strengths of Neurodivergent brains.
I began by getting my certification in Neurodiverse Couples therapy, as well as advanced Trauma informed care, and began to work exclusively in the world of Neurodivergent adults, and occasionally teens.
My own Neurodivergent brain, and family experiences made this a natural fit for me. Late diagnosed Neurodivergence is an area I am passionate about, as well as high masking Autism, which is frequently seen in females and gender non-conforming clients. I have spent the last several years providing therapy, Autism Assessments, unmasking retreats, and corporate trainings to spread the word about the rapidly changing world of Neurodivergent adults. This population is underserved and frequently misunderstood and misdiagnosed. I am thrilled to be working to change this every day. I am a writer, and a public speaker, and am working to spread updated information about making the world safer and more accommodating for Neurodivergent adults. In recent years, I have worked with many government agencies, companies, and therapy practices, including Amtrak, the National Security Agency, the public library system, the Census Bureau, and many local therapy practices to train them on creating Autism affirming workplaces and therapy spaces. I LOVE what I do, and am honored to be a voice for Neurodivergent adults.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Never. Working in the school system was a path filled with many “no’s” and years of “that’s the way things go here.” I walked out of the school system on Tuesday when a principal of a public school told me that if I suggested an assessment or “so much as stated the word, Autism” at a team for a student who was struggling, I would no longer be allowed to participate in the team meetings that were a part of my job. She told me that if we identified the Autistic kids, “it would create a problematic situation with the parents, and their understaffed school, and it was best to not identify the Autistic student in the first place.” I knew I could no longer be a part of a system that was consistently failing the kids that needed us the most. I cried at my desk, and walked out. I knew it was time to go.
Starting a private practice is hard. Working with systems that have been in place for years is difficult. Convincing workplaces that accommodations can improve the lives of all of their employees can be an uphill battle. Sitting with clients who have been to upwards of 8 therapists, and have been misunderstood for their entire lives is never easy. But I didn’t sign up for a smooth road. I was made for this. I am looking to amplify the voices of my clients in all that I do. I maintain an active social media account, I am speaking publicly in professional and corporate spaces, publishing my writing, and working on a book. None of this is easy to balance as a working mom, but I love what I do, and I know how important this work is. I sit in the corner of my home office, with my two “therapy golden doodles”, in my “transformer” office chair with my soft, weighted blankets, and do this work with enthusiasm each day. I know I am exactly where I am meant to be.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I think what sets me apart from others is my creativity and my intensity. My own neurodivergence has given me the gift of hyperfocus. I don’t do anything in a small way. I am always looking to do more, to try new creative approaches, and to reach more people. I love to use humor and connection in this helping profession. My presentations and trainings touch on topics that aren’t always easy to talk about, including trauma, intimacy, and other sensitive topics. I don’t shy away from the “tough stuff” because it is all important!
Most recently, I offered my first “UnMasking Retreat.” I brought together a group of late diagnosed Autistic adults for a weekend of connection, acceptance, and intense self reflection. It was one of the most beautiful experiences I have ever had as a human. I cannot wait to do it again!
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I am a HUGE fan of collaboration. I have tried to make connections with many local therapists, treatment facilities, and others who are doing great things in the Neurodivergent world. I frequently make referrals to other therapists who I trust, and recommendations in the community for other businesses that are doing great things to support the Neurodivergent community.
Connect with me on IG at @neurokoryous, or contact me through my website koryandreas.com.
Pricing:
- All of my pricing information is available on my website. I work hard to provide Autism Assessments and trainings that are within reach. Reach out for any specific circumstances!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://koryandreas.com
- Instagram: @neurokoryous
