top of page
Sunset Horizon
whitneynewpic_edited.jpg

Whitney Schneider

License and Certifications

  • Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist 

  • Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Interdisciplinary Behavioral Studies​

​

Specialties​

  • Cassandra Syndrome/Supporting those with neurodiverse partners

  • Neurodiverse Couples Specialist

  • Life Transitions

  • Postpartum Depression

  • Spirituality/Christianity

  • Grief and Loss

  • IEPs/Special Education 

  • LGBTQ+ - Affirming Parenting

​

Life Experience​

  • Married 23 years to neurodivergent husband

  • Proud mother of 3 neurodivergent kids: age 21 Autism/ADHD/twice exceptional, age 18 ADHD, age 13 Autism/ADHD

  • Diagnosed with ADHD at age 17

  • Proud mother to LGBTQ+ identifying kids

​​

Whitney's Story

Hello, I'm so glad you're here!

 

I am a passionate therapist with a lifetime of personal experience navigating the complexities of neurodivergence for myself and within my own family. I am proud to bring my own real-life perspective to my practice and to my clients.

 

My own journey as a child of, a sibling to, the parent of and partner to neurodivergent individuals has profoundly shaped my understanding and awareness of the myriads of struggles, surprises, pivots and beautiful moments within neurodiverse relationships.

 

I specialize in working with those that are navigating similar paths.

 

Whether you are seeking support for managing a relationship with a neurodivergent partner, a neurodivergent child/ren, or exploring your own identity, I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment to express, explore and grow.

Main Areas of Focus

Being in a Relationship with a Neurodiverse Partner

​
Navigating a neurodivergent relationship can bring unique and unexpected challenges.

 

One often overlooked phenomenon in neurodiverse relationships is Cassandra syndrome also known as Cassandra Affective Deprivation Disorder (CAAD). 

 

Cassandra syndrome primarily affects partners of neurodiverse individuals and can lead to significant emotional and mental distress. The name comes from the Greek myth of Cassandra who was cursed to utter true prophecies and never be believed.

 

Cassandra syndrome arises when the neurotypical partner feels that their emotional needs are unmet or misunderstood leading to a sense of emotional deprivation, neglect, sadness, and isolation. 

​

Are You Struggling with Cassandra Syndrome?

​

  • Do you experience extreme disappointment within your relationship?

  • Do you struggle to understand why your emotional needs are unmet or misunderstood?

  • Do you feel frustration toward your partner and then guilt for feeling this way?

  • Do you feel as though your partner lacks empathy or concern for your needs?

  • Do you doubt your own self-worth or attractiveness?

  • Do you experience frequent feelings of frustration or resentment?

  • Are you experiencing persistent worry or fear about your relationship or personal adequacy?

  • Do you feel sometimes as though your partner is more like a bad room-mate?

  • Do your friends and family fail understand why you’re unhappy?

 

You are not alone; suffering from Cassandra syndrome can leave us feeling lonely, empty, confused and exhausted.

 

If you suspect that you are experiencing Cassandra syndrome, there is help and there is hope.

 

It's essential to have self-compassion and take the time to identify your own important needs and desires, and more importantly, how to get them met! I specialize in working with women suffering from Cassandra syndrome and neurodiverse couples.

 

My approach is compassionate, inclusive, trauma and attachment informed, utilizing various modalities to support you in a non judgemental way that is both nurturing and effective.  

bottom of page