Therapists who affirm neurodiversity recognize that differences in brain function aren't flaws to be fixed. They see neurodivergence as natural variation, like differences in height or eye color, with its strengths. Despite its benefits, society often marginalizes certain neurotypes for not fitting typical behavioral, communication, and cognitive norms. Psychology's historical focus on neurotypical standards has led to over-pathologizing harmless behaviors and enforcing conformity, harming neurodivergent individuals.
Neurodiversity, a term coined by sociologist Dr. Judy Singer, describes how people's unique brain development influences their thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and perceptions. "Neurodivergence" refers to those whose brain functioning differs from societal norms of "typical." Some neurodivergent individuals may experience disability due to these differences, while others do not view their neurodivergence as disabling. Both perspectives are valid. Initially, neurodivergence encompassed all deviations from neurotypical standards, including mental health diagnoses, although it's now often associated with neurodevelopmental disabilities like ADHD and autism as defined by the DSM-5. If your perception and interaction with the world differ from typical expectations, you may be neurodivergent.
Understanding neurodiversity benefits everyone by appreciating our unique ways of functioning. Instead of labeling them as "right" or "wrong," we can embrace these differences.
In workplaces and schools, this means:
These practices not only support neurodivergent individuals but also yield significant rewards. For instance, JPMorgan Chase's Autism at Work program found that participants were up to 140% more productive and made fewer mistakes than neurotypical employees.
Neurodiversity-affirming therapy isn't about specific techniques or actions during sessions. It's a therapeutic approach that shapes how therapists understand their clients, similar to trauma-informed Therapy's recognition of trauma's impact.
A neurodiversity-affirming therapist sees neurodivergence not as a flaw needing fixing but also acknowledges its potential disabling aspects. Rejecting the idea that neurodivergence is always a strength without deficits avoids toxic positivity and respects the diverse experiences of neurodivergent individuals.
A neurodiversity-affirming therapist respects each client's expertise in their own experience, embracing both the challenges and strengths. They prioritize the voices of neurodivergent communities in determining language, interventions, and support rather than imposing neurotypical expectations.
Traditionally, Therapy hasn't always embraced neurodiversity. The medical model often views neurodivergence as a problem requiring correction, though many neurodivergent communities challenge this approach.
Non-neurodiversity-affirming therapists may urge clients to change behaviors simply because they are atypical, even if those behaviors aren't harmful. For instance, some in the autistic community oppose applied behavioral analysis (ABA), which discourages stimming—a coping mechanism that can help regulate sensory experiences—under the guise of making individuals less visibly autistic.
This approach can be stressful and lead to burnout, as it aims to mask autistic traits rather than support individuals as they are. Therapists lacking neurodiversity awareness may rely on clients to educate them, placing an added burden on those seeking treatment.
Neurodiversity-affirming care requires cultural competence. These therapists actively address biases, seek knowledge about neurodivergent experiences, and collaborate with clients to ensure supportive, non-harmful treatment.
When seeking Therapy as a neurodivergent individual, it's crucial to research potential therapists. Unfortunately, a recent study found that many providers (46%) serving neurodivergent people need more awareness of neurodiversity-affirming practices, and more than half (58%) overestimate their competency in this area.
Before scheduling an appointment, ask a prospective therapist if they consider themselves neurodiversity-affirming and how they implement this in their practice.
Many therapists who value neurodiversity-affirming practices state this on their websites. You can also find such therapists through specialized directories:
Remember, switching therapists is okay if their approach or personality doesn't suit your needs. Finding the right fit may require trying out multiple providers.
Even though the concept of neurodiversity was first introduced more than twenty years ago by someone on the autism spectrum, its acceptance is still growing. The better we grasp neurodiversity today, the more we can change our actions in the future.
The shift in understanding neurodiversity is evident in advocacy for neurodivergent populations moving away from ABA, which aims to "cure" autism by changing behaviors rather than accepting neurological differences. Many view ABA as harmful, with resources available online explaining why it should be avoided and promoting alternative approaches for children with autism.
This shift has fostered a network of neurodiversity leaders and educators dedicated to promoting acceptance and collaboration with neurodivergent individuals rather than trying to change them.
Advocacy for neurodivergent individuals is evident in the rise of alternative therapies replacing ABA for children with autism. Recognizing the unique skills associated with neurodiversity has increased the demand for neurodivergent individuals in the workforce. For instance, The Harvard Business Review advocated hiring more neurodivergent people, highlighting neurodivergence as a "competitive advantage."
The stigma and challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals still exist in our society. However, our growing cultural understanding of neurodiversity offers a framework for changing attitudes and improving the treatment of neurodivergent people. Decades ago, left-handed students were forced to use their right hands, which had lasting effects. Now, we recognize left-handedness as a natural difference rather than a disorder, allowing children to write with their preferred hand. Similarly, as we continue to embrace and understand neurodiversity, we can better support each other and help individuals learn and thrive in ways that suit them best.
However, Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapists play a crucial role in fostering acceptance and support for neurodivergent individuals. These therapists create inclusive and empowering therapeutic environments by embracing neurological differences and recognizing them as natural variations rather than deficits. They prioritize understanding and accommodating diverse ways of thinking, feeling, and experiencing the world. This approach not only validates the unique strengths of neurodivergent clients but also contributes to broader societal shifts towards inclusivity and equity in mental health care and beyond.