In an optimal society the majority of experts on a given subject matter are those who are also affected by and experiencing it.

A few of many areas this applies to are mental health, mental illnesses, and neurodivergence.

I experience recurrent depressive disorder, of varying severity in each episode. This is in part hereditary and physiological, in part due to the way we structure life in capitalist society, and in another part due to me also having a histrionic personality style.

I've done a lot of work—in and outside of hospitals—on this with therapists, doctors, and other people who are affected. At this point, I have learned a lot and feel I have a good idea what I and others with similar experiences to mine want and need—perhaps without realizing—to feel better.

Still I am no therapist. I did not learn any of this in a university. I cannot, don't want to, and will not offer therapy of any kind.

Personally, I have had good and helpful experiences with psychiatry and psychology. The roots of both of these fields are hugely problematic and many issues persist today.

I generally do recommend trying, and trying multiple times, at least in places that offer care with no charge at the point of service.

In any case more and other work than the institutionalized helps. This includes and is not limited to

• speaking, sharing, and listening,
• using and getting in touch with your body,
• (re-)learning how to play and be playful,
• creating and experiencing art, I have a personal focus on performance art,
• cultivation of ambitions, interests, hobbies, and anything that’s fun,
• learning from and mimicking non-human animals and children.

Having the experience and personality style that I do, an obvious path for me is being in and creating spaces for the above both for individuals and for groups.

Do read about what I offer and take part in. Feel very free to contact me about anything that's on your mind.