About The Founder

Hello and Welcome!

Hello! My name is Christina, and I am the founder of the Mindscape Neurodiversity Institute. My journey toward understanding neurodivergence began at age 46 when I was diagnosed with Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, Vestibular Dysfunction, Auditory Processing Disorder, and Visual Processing Disorder. While these may sound overwhelming to some, for me, it’s simply the way I’ve always navigated life—armed with a variety of coping mechanisms, strategies, and tools that I’ve developed over the years.

My early life was filled with unique challenges and experiences. As a child, I often exhibited behaviors that, in hindsight, were indicators of my neurodivergence. I was mistakenly thought to be deaf at age four due to my lack of response to my name, and I frequently eloped in stores. Despite these challenges, I grew up in a structured household with strict routines, which allowed me to function in a world that often felt overwhelming.

In my childhood, I developed a deep love for learning. My father’s library of National Geographic magazines and historical books, as well as countless maps, fueled my curiosity about the world. My grandfather, who had a passion for geology, was one of my greatest influences. He nurtured my love for asking “why” and taught me to play cribbage, sparking a lifelong appreciation for knowledge.

Fast forward to today, I am a mother to three wonderful children—my daughter, who is 26, and my two sons, Otto (10) and Axel (8). Otto is autistic, while Axel, like me, has Dyslexia and ADHD. Navigating the education system with my neurodivergent children has opened my eyes to the many challenges that neurodivergent families face, especially the lack of understanding in schools and other institutions. These experiences have motivated me to advocate for neurodivergent individuals and to create spaces that embrace and support our unique strengths.

Outside of my advocacy work, I am a lover of animals and have built a small ecosystem at home, including 10 chameleons, a snake, a bearded dragon, and chickens and ducks. Building and creating systems that work harmoniously—whether it’s a pond filtration system or a supportive environment for neurodivergent individuals—has always been a passion of mine.

Mindscape Neurodiversity Institute was born from my desire to provide a haven for neurodivergent families. My vision is to create a place where neurodivergent individuals can thrive and where families can find support, understanding, and empowerment. Through this organization, I am committed to advocating for the needs of neurodivergent people and promoting a world where we can all live authentically.