The Importance of Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapy
As a practice of all neurodivergent therapists, we believe that anything other than neurodiversity-affirming therapy is harmful to neurodivergent individuals. There is no room in mental health for providers who believe that the goal is to help people 'act' more neurotypical.
Neurodiversity-affirming therapy is a form of therapy that recognizes and values the diversity of human brains and neurological differences. It seeks to support and empower individuals with conditions such as ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and others, rather than trying to fix or cure these differences.
In neurodiversity-affirming therapy, the focus is on helping individuals with neurodiverse conditions to develop coping strategies, build self-esteem, and navigate the challenges that they may face in a society that is often not designed to accommodate their needs. The therapist works with the individual to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to their specific needs and goals, and that takes into account their unique strengths and challenges.
Some key elements of neurodiversity-affirming therapy may include:
A focus on strengths and positive qualities, rather than deficits or problems
An emphasis on acceptance and validation of the individual's experiences and perspective
Collaboration between the therapist and the individual to set treatment goals and develop coping strategies
Support for the individual to advocate for their needs and navigate the challenges of living in a neurotypical world
Education about neurodiversity and ways to support neurodiverse individuals in various settings, such as school or work.