The concept of neurodivergence is one of focus and attention in the field of mental health today and presents applications to current clinical, therapeutic, and diagnostic areas in the field. A paradigm shift has occurred in the way individuals with neurodivergent traits are understood. The focus is changing from one where the individual’s condition is seen as a conglomeration of deficits or problems to one of seeing an individual as someone with a combination of unique traits. Some of those unique characteristics are positive and helpful, while others are challenging and obstructive. This holistic view allows us to help our neurodivergent clients find their place in the world based on their unique makeup of characteristics, traits, and skills.
Art therapy is a field of practice where art making is used in treatment and it has broad applications in the mental health field. The wide array of techniques provide benefit to a variety of populations, including neurodivergent teens. With an understanding of neurodivergence, specifically as it relates to neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), it becomes clear both how and why art therapy is an effective modality for the treatment of teens with neurodivergent traits.
Meet the Presenter
Jennifer Samson, LMFT, ATR | Clinical Quality Manager, Evolve Adolescent Behavioral Health
Jennifer earned her bachelor’s degree in Fine Art at Yeshiva University, Stern College in New York City and earned her master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy with a specialization in Art Therapy at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles. She completed a post-master’s fellowship at Cedar’s Sinai Hospital in the Thalian’s mental health clinic where Jennifer worked as an art therapy intern as part of a multidisciplinary team treating children and families. In addition to working in community mental health, Jennifer worked as a school based therapist in a non-public school specializing in children and adolescents with autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders. Jennifer also has extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with autism spectrum disorders in social and education settings.
Jennifer has been part of the Evolve team for over 8 years and has had the opportunity to help the company grow and develop. She is currently the Clinical Quality Manager and Medical Records Administrator at Evolve Adolescent Behavioral Health where she collaborates with leadership to facilitate clinical projects and initiatives throughout the company. Jennifer is the administrator of Evolve’s electronic medical record (EMR), leads the Medical Record Department and trains and consults regarding clinical documentation, mandated reporting and confidentiality. Jennifer enjoys softball, painting, spending time with family and friends and the occasional roadtrip up to the mountains.
