Neurocomplexity - Moving beyond Pathology
When most people hear the word “neurodivergence,” they think in terms of labels—autism, ADHD, HSP, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and others. These terms can be useful, but they are only a pencil sketch compared to the richness of the terrain that is the neurocomplex mind.
In neuro-affirming spaces, a newer concept is beginning to take root: neurocomplexity. This perspective invites us to see the brain not as a machine that either works “correctly” or “incorrectly,” but as an extraordinary, non-linear richness of possibility, with different capacities, limitations, and needs.
Neurocomplexity shifts us away from a pathology-based model of reductionist diagnostic categories of the medical industrial complex and toward an appreciation of the intricate, multidimensional symphony of capabilities we are only beginning to glimpse—but which humanity has relied on for millennia as a wellspring of creativity, innovation, and problem-solving.
A component of neurocomplexity is the fascinating biological process of synaptic pruning.
What Is Synaptic Pruning?
Our brains develop more neural connections than we ultimately keep. During childhood and adolescence, the brain undergoes synaptic pruning—eliminating weaker or unused synapses while strengthening the ones most essential for learning, memory, and sensory processing. Think of it as fine-tuning the brain’s wiring for efficiency.
In most people, this pruning process helps the brain specialize, conserve energy, and streamline information flow. But in neurocomplex individuals, things often work a little differently.
Synaptic Pruning in the Neurocomplex
Research shows that in those who identify as autistic or ADHD, pruning is often reduced, delayed, or occurs at a different pace. This results in a higher density of synaptic connections compared to neurotypical brains.
That difference matters. More synapses can mean:
Heightened sensory sensitivity (sounds, textures, lights, and emotions can feel more intense).
Differences in information filtering, leading to innovation and insights as well as challenges with focus or overwhelm in busy environments.
Unique cognitive strengths, such as exceptional pattern recognition, memory, or multidimensional problem-solving.
Giftedness, heightened intuition, non-traditional gender identification, and chronic illness.
Neuroscience also links reduced pruning to a range of challenges including anxiety, depression, difficulty with sensory integration, and debilitating degrees of social difference.
Importantly, neuro-affirming researchers stress that reduced pruning is not only a liability. Yes, the surplus of synapses can contribute to overload and fatigue—but it also enables richer processing, deeper insights, and extraordinary creative or analytical abilities.
Neurocomplexity: A Deeper Truth
If pruning differences make for denser, more sensitive brains, then neurodivergent people are literally wired for complexity.
We feel more, think more, and perceive more. At our best, this means noticing patterns others miss, making connections across fields, and generating innovative ideas. At our hardest moments, it means running out of energy quickly and being easily overwhelmed by the sensory environment—sometimes leading to meltdowns or shutdowns.
A useful analogy: imagine working on a laptop that constantly runs a heavy 3D modeling program in the background. The machine can do amazing things—but it overheats, lags, and drains its battery faster. It isn’t defective; it’s doing more.
Similarly, neurocomplex professionals often “run hot” because our brains are processing so much, all the time. We’re not broken. We’re not “less than.” We’re different. And whether that difference feels like an obstacle or an asset often depends on perspective, context, and support.
Why This Matters for Neurodivergent Professionals
In professional settings, neurodivergent individuals are often told—implicitly or explicitly—to hide their differences. To act “normal.” To mask.
This high-masking survival strategy comes at an enormous cost. It drains energy, erodes authenticity, and often results in chronic burnout—the silent epidemic of neurocomplex professionals. Over time, it can even contribute to complex trauma.
Neurocomplexity offers another way. Instead of asking, “How do I fix or hide my brain?” the better question is: “How do I honor the complexity of my brain and set myself up to thrive?”
That shift in perspective is a doorway to transformation. It lets you step out of default, deficit-based thinking and into an affirming understanding of yourself as someone whose brain is intricate, resilient, and valuable. A symphony, not catastrophe.
Complexity and Resilience
In ecosystems, biodiversity strengthens resilience—the more varied the organisms, the better the system adapts to challenges. The same is true of human communities and workplaces.
Teams that include neurodivergent professionals benefit from unconventional problem-solving, innovative ideas, and unique insights. Recognizing neurocomplexity—both the gifts and the struggles—makes organizations stronger, more creative, and more adaptive.
In today’s world of extraordinary change, this recognition may not just be a competitive advantage—it could determine whether a business or even an entire industry survives or collapses.
A Coaching Perspective
In coaching, I don’t see you as a diagnosis or a checklist. I see a whole person. Our focus is on helping you identify your nature, build capacity, and become an expert manager of your own energy. Together, we explore:
Who are you? What is your nature, and how do you function—naturally?
What patterns of strength and challenge show up in your daily work?
How can you recraft your environment to better suit your nature?
How does your brain respond to different environments, relationships, and demands?
What strategies can help you sustain your energy and authenticity?
The goal isn’t to “normalize” you. It’s to help you grow into your own shoes. To invite you out and help you understand and work with your unique complexity—so you can show up fully, authentically, and sustainably in your professional and leadership life.
Moving Forward
Neurocomplexity expands the conversation around neurodivergence. It helps us move beyond labels and symptoms to a fuller appreciation of how our brains can think, feel, and connect.
If you are a neurodivergent professional, embracing neurocomplexity can be profoundly liberating. You are not a problem to solve. You are a complex, dynamic, resilient human being with much to offer.
And in a society that thrives on creativity, adaptability, and innovation—neurocomplexity is not just something to accept. It’s something to celebrate.
Ready to explore? Let’s connect.