Cassandra Miasnikov (She/They)

My Approach to Helping

As an LGBTQ+ neurodivergent therapist, I know it’s not easy living in a world that wasn’t built for you. You are absolutely worthy of the support & understanding you’ve spent your life looking for. That's why I specialize in therapy empowering neurodivergent people who don't fit the outdated, ”traditional” picture of neurodivergence, including people of color, women, nonbinary, and trans individuals. I have extensive training in assessing & treating neurodivergent people, including conducting independent clinical research & presenting my findings at research conferences in California, Oregon, & Washington. My primary areas of focus are ADHD, autism, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive, & bipolar disorders. I’ve also served as a lead presenter for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), a writer for the International Bipolar Foundation, & a mental health journalist for Insider. Before that, I was a tutor for children with ADHD, ASD, & dyslexia.

My Personal Beliefs and Interests

No one should have to figure everything out on their own, or spend years getting brushed off by providers who work off of outdated models. I started the Portland Neurodivergent Clinic because I believe neurodivergence isn’t something to be ashamed of. You deserve flexibility, whether that's telehealth individual sessions or Dungeons & Dragons therapy. While some models focus on pointing out your weak points, I take a shame-free approach by helping clients recognize & build on their strengths while identifying support needs. I treat therapy as a partnership, where we collaborate to navigate challenges & celebrate successes. Together, we create a shame-free therapeutic space that honors individuality, promotes resilience, & fosters growth in a safe, understanding environment.