Neurodivergent-affirming Care

References

A common concern voiced by those with autism regarding applied behavior analysis (ABA), the first intervention widely applied to those with autism, is that they experience iatrogenic effects.1 Unfortunately, in the past, these concerns were met with minimization. However, the purpose of neurodivergent-affirming therapy is to consider these concerns, acknowledge their validity and work collaboratively to identify an alternative.1

Neurodiversity-affirming therapy may include the validation of symptoms and experiences, exploration of identity formation regardless of diagnosis and permission to accommodate specific needs when requested.2

Neurodiversity-affirming refers to the acknowledgment that individuals have differences in their abilities and the way in which they interact with the world. It’s a step forward from the belief that those who are neurodiverse have a challenge to overcome. Instead, neurodiversity affirming celebrates our diverse minds and how we uniquely perceive information, process and learn.2

Neurodiversity-affirming practices are crucial for promoting inclusivity because they embrace, rather than challenge, individual differences, allowing those who are neurodiverse to feel supported.1 This shift is vital for mental health: those who are neurodivergent but do not receive an affirming medical diagnosis report significantly worse mental health symptoms. 2

What Does Neurodiversity Affirming Mean?

Neurodivergent-affirming care focuses on celebrating the differences that make everyone unique rather than perpetuating the stereotype that neurodivergent individuals have challenges that need to be corrected.1 This therapeutic approach is critical for fostering inclusivity and success, ensuring that those who are neurodivergent see a mental health boost.2

Neurodiversity-affirming care is a practice founded on accepting each person’s differences and celebrating our individual strengths.1 For those who are neurodivergent, the shift towards neurodiversity-affirming practices can come with a significant mental health boost by celebrating diverse ways of thinking and fostering a sense of belonging, rather than framing differences as challenges to be fixed.2

Given the significant variability in how our minds think and process, therapy requires inclusive, supportive practices so each person’s unique strengths are valued.2, 3 Neurodiversity-affirming practices shift therapy away from a model focused on correcting perceived differences and instead embrace and support the unique strengths and needs of neurodivergent people.1, 2

A Neurodiverse Affirming Approach