I immigrated from Indonesia over 10 years ago. When I first came to Montréal as a McGill University student, I was captivated by the celebration of freedom, individuality, and diversity. I was excited to be in this country and carried immense hope for my future.

My idealism shattered once I joined the workforce and felt disconnected from my peers and the culture at work. I became stuck in a cycle where I was ashamed of myself for not fitting in, but also frustrated at my peers for shunning me out. I lost confidence in who I was and it hindered my ability to genuinely connect with the people around me.

As a psychotherapist, I work with neurodivergent and marginalized populations because, for far too long, we have been carrying the narrative that our differences make us weak.

It’s time to rewrite that narrative.

Therapy is where you finally look past the shame and other people’s expectations, to recognize what you actually want and need. Treat yourself with the grace you deserve, which in turn, will show others how they should be treating you. Explore your thoughts and behaviors to break free from the patterns that no longer serve you.

Reach out and let’s learn what it means to be different, not less.