Neurodivergent-friendly space at interPURPOSE on Kingston Road offers in-person coaching

By JESSICA SHACKLETON 

Connie Kuipers is the vision behind interPURPOSE, a program where she coaches neurodivergent people in employment, academia, and life overall.

She began with virtual coaching sessions but now has a physical space which was officially opened in the summer and is designed as a productive, co-working environment. It’s a cozy spot above Ella Minnow Books on Kingston Road that has chairs, laptop tables, a communal puzzle, and a bookshelf. The kitchen has a cupboard of tea and mugs. 

“I feel like this is the kind of practical solution I’ve been wanting to offer,” said Kuipers. “It’s a comfy space that’s neurodivergent friendly.” 

Coaching happens online, over the phone, or in groups at the new space. Compared to other co-working and educational spots, interPURPOSE works in small groups and has focused, individual goals. 

Kuipers said she still does a lot of virtual coaching, but noticed the need for physical community. 

“It’s for people to get the less-fun stuff done, the things that especially neurodivergent people get stuck on. I’m here as a coach available to prompt people, get priorities, and celebrate,” she said. “When you change the environment for folks, it really makes a difference with their willingness to do the work.” 

With a background in adult education, Kuipers began her journey to coaching during the COVID-19 pandemic and did her training with Adler Graduate Professional School and International ADHD Coach Training Center, based in Washington. 

“All my training happened during the pandemic, which was amazing,” said Kuipers. “I was able to stop what I was doing for that, and it was a real transition time for my own ADHD, so being able to be at home and focus on that was really fortunate.” 

“I had one of the better pandemic experiences compared to other people. That pause was really helpful,” she said.   

The cost of interPURPOSE’s services have stayed the same since its inception, as Kuipers  said she wants it to be accessible. Sometimes, the resources needed can be expensive, so she encourages people to check out the Bursary for Students with Disabilities (BSWD), which can help with this kind of educational service. 

She said she wants to curb the stereotype of ADHD being young boys’ hyperactivity and dispel myths about diagnosis and misinformation. 

Kuipers was diagnosed with ADHD at the age of 49. When she became a mother, she realized she couldn’t work in an office and be a focused mom at the same time. 

“Every adult whose late-diagnosed is going to look back at life and go ‘I see it now,’ but still it was quite a struggle,” she said. “I started taking medication, and it was like the lights came back on. The diagnosis helped me shift my understanding of just feeling bewildered.” 

She said the person she is today is much different than she used to be. Her personal experience with ADHD helps her with coaching others.

The three goals of interPURPOSE are increasing people’s understanding of neurodivergency, practical focus, and coming home to yourself, said Kuipers.

As for future goals, Kuipers wants to fill the space and get the word out that it’s open and a welcoming place for everyone who needs it. 

The interPURPOSE space is located at 991 A Kingston Rd.

To learn more, please visit https://www.interpurpose.com/