AI Tools Prove Life-Changing for Neurodivergent Individuals

Neurodivergent people find AI helps with communication, organization, and self-expression in the workplace and classroom.

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

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For people with ADHD, autism, and dyslexia, communicating in the workplace and classroom can be a challenge, but artificial intelligence is proving to be a game changer. A recent panel discussion demonstrated how AI has been a useful tool to help neurodivergent individuals organize their thoughts, communicate more effectively, and even act as a "universal translator" to express themselves authentically.

Why it matters

Neurodivergent individuals often struggle with processing, communication, and getting "unstuck" - issues that can significantly impact their personal and professional lives. The emergence of AI tools tailored to their needs is opening up new possibilities for self-expression, productivity, and inclusion.

The details

Mike Lannen, who has ADHD, uses AI to help get his thoughts in order and create briefs to share with others. Holly Buttura, who has OCD and anxiety, finds AI transcription tools beneficial for interpreting meeting notes. Alexandru 'Zeph' Lodestone, founder of a new AI tool, says it has been "life-changing" to have his voice heard authentically. While many see the benefits, a 2025 study shows that long-term overdependence on these AI tools can impact critical-thinking skills and give people a reason not to engage with others.

  • The panel discussion took place recently.
  • A 2025 study examined the potential downsides of long-term AI tool dependence.

The players

Mike Lannen

A digital marketing and AI company executive who has ADHD and uses AI to organize his thoughts and communicate more effectively.

Holly Buttura

An employee at Eternity who has OCD and anxiety and finds AI transcription tools beneficial for interpreting meeting notes.

Alexandru 'Zeph' Lodestone

The founder of a new AI tool that has been "life-changing" for him to express himself authentically.

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What they’re saying

“For the ADHD part of my brain, I was able to start all these different projects and braindump stuff into folders of AI just to get it out there to get things started, or enough to be able to take that braindump in my head and create a brief out of it to give to someone, like to another human to then be able to clearly do that side project.”

— Mike Lannen (WCAX)

“Many neurodivergent people don't struggle with intelligence, they struggle with processing, communication, or getting unstuck. And for me, this particular tool does an amazing job.”

— Holly Buttura (WCAX)

“It's been life-changing, it literally has been life-changing to have my voice heard authentically saying what I want to say in the way that I want to say it.”

— Alexandru 'Zeph' Lodestone, Founder of a new AI tool (WCAX)

What’s next

While many see the benefits of AI tools for neurodivergent individuals, a 2025 study will examine the potential long-term impacts of overdependence on these technologies, including effects on critical-thinking skills and social engagement.

The takeaway

The emergence of AI tools tailored to the needs of neurodivergent individuals is opening up new possibilities for self-expression, productivity, and inclusion in the workplace and classroom. However, the long-term effects of relying too heavily on these technologies will need to be closely monitored to ensure they continue to enhance rather than hinder the lives of those they aim to support.