Our Origin Story

Fish in a Tree began as a small brunch gathering among neurodivergent friends in New Orleans, united by a shared vision of mutual support and acceptance. Our informal meetups evolved into a thriving virtual neurodiversity community center and consulting firm over time. Today, we provide a wide array of programs and services, both locally and virtually, to support neurodivergent people and their families. Rooted in the belief that every individual has unique value, Fish in a Tree continues to grow, promoting neurodiversity acceptance, inclusion, and empowerment across New Orleans, the US, and beyond.

  • At Fish in a Tree, we provide a wide range of services and programs designed to support and empower the neurodivergent community. Our offerings include peer support groups, educational workshops, and supportive resources, all tailored to meet the diverse needs of individuals and families. We also provide consulting services to help organizations and communities create inclusive environments. We deliver local and national programming that celebrates neurodiversity, fosters self-knowledge, and promotes the unique strengths of every individual. Our goal is to create a supportive, inclusive community where neurodivergent people can thrive and be celebrated.

  • At Fish in a Tree, we serve neurodivergent individuals of all backgrounds, along with their families and allies. We also support educators, healthcare providers, employers, and organizations seeking to create inclusive environments. Whether through local programming, our virtual platform, our speaking and consulting services, or our network of affiliate sites, we are dedicated to providing resources, programs, and a supportive community for anyone who embraces or seeks to understand neurodiversity.

  • Neurodiversity is the concept that neurological differences, such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and others, are natural variations of the human brain. These differences are part of the normal spectrum of human diversity and should be recognized and respected like any other form of diversity. Neurodiversity emphasizes the value and strengths of individuals with neurological variations, challenging traditional views that often pathologize these identities. By embracing neurodiversity, we foster an inclusive society that celebrates the unique contributions and perspectives of neurodivergent individuals.

  • The neurodiversity movement is a social and civil rights movement that advocates for the recognition and respect of neurological differences as natural variations of the human experience. It challenges the traditional medical model that views neurologically unique identities, like autism, ADHD, and dyslexia, solely as disorders to be cured. Instead, the movement promotes acceptance, inclusion, and support for neurodivergent individuals, emphasizing their strengths and contributions to society. By championing the rights and dignity of neurodivergent people, the neurodiversity movement seeks to create a more inclusive world where all individuals can thrive and be valued for who they are.

  • Neurodivergence encompasses a variety of neurological differences that are part of the natural diversity of human brains. These identities and conditions include, but are not limited to, autism, attention differences (ADHD), dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia, and any other brain types that differ from the neurotypical majority. There are also acquired neurodivergent conditions like Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Traumatic brain Injury (TBI) Each of these represents a unique way of thinking, learning, and interacting with the world. Embracing neurodivergence means recognizing and valuing these differences, understanding that they contribute to the rich tapestry of human diversity.