What Is Neurodiversity-Affirming Practice? A Guide for Clinicians
Understanding the Question
Therapists and mental health practitioners often encounter the term “neurodiversity-affirming practice” but may not fully understand what it entails. Simply put, neurodiversity-affirming practice is an approach that respects, values, and supports the diversity of neurological differences rather than attempting to “fix” or change them.
This perspective challenges traditional deficit-based models, focusing instead on creating environments and therapeutic practices that empower neurodivergent individuals to thrive.
Core Principles of Neurodiversity-Affirming Practice
1. Recognizing and Valuing Neurological Diversity
Neurodiversity includes conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, Tourette syndrome, and more. These differences are natural variations in the human population, not deficits to be corrected.
Key takeaway: Neurodivergent individuals are not “broken”—their differences are part of the spectrum of human diversity.
2. Treating Clients with Dignity and Respect
A neurodiversity-affirming approach prioritizes respect for each individual’s unique experiences, needs, and strengths. This includes rejecting stereotypes and stigmatizing language.
In practice:
- Use language that affirms the person’s identity (e.g., “autistic person” if that’s their preference).
- Avoid pathologizing terms that suggest something is “wrong” with them.
3. Shared Responsibility in Communication
Rooted in the “double empathy theory,” this principle emphasizes that communication breakdowns often result from mismatched understandings, not deficits in the neurodivergent individual.
How therapists can adapt:
- Ask clarifying questions instead of making assumptions.
- Provide alternative communication options, such as writing or visual aids.
- Be patient, allowing clients time to process and respond.
4. Recognizing Strengths and Challenges
Neurodivergent individuals have unique strengths—such as creativity, pattern recognition, and problem-solving abilities—that should be celebrated alongside their challenges.
Key consideration: Avoid the “superpower” narrative, which can place unrealistic expectations on neurodivergent clients. Instead, balance recognition of strengths with understanding their genuine needs for support.
5. Creating Accommodating Environments
Therapists should adjust their spaces and practices to reduce barriers that neurodivergent clients might face.
Suggestions for accommodations:
- Minimize sensory distractions by offering quiet, well-lit spaces.
- Use visual aids and provide clear written summaries.
- Offer flexible scheduling and alternative methods of communication, such as email or text.
6. Including Neurodivergent Voices in Service Design
The principle of “nothing about us without us” underscores the importance of involving neurodivergent individuals in shaping the services they receive.
Application for clinicians:
- Actively seek feedback from neurodivergent clients to improve your practice.
- Stay informed by engaging with neurodivergent communities and literature.
Why Is This Important for Clinicians?
Traditional therapeutic models often focus on reducing “symptoms” or forcing neurodivergent clients to conform to neurotypical standards. These approaches can be harmful, leading to feelings of inadequacy or shame in clients.
Neurodiversity-affirming practices, on the other hand, foster empowerment, authenticity, and self-acceptance by:
- Supporting clients in understanding and embracing their identity.
- Helping clients develop strategies that work for their unique needs and preferences.
- Promoting a collaborative therapeutic relationship based on mutual respect and understanding.
How to Implement Neurodiversity-Affirming Practices
- Educate Yourself:
Learn about neurodivergent experiences directly from those who live them. Seek out resources authored by neurodivergent individuals and stay updated on neurodiversity research. - Challenge Your Biases:
Reflect on assumptions about what constitutes “normal” behavior and communication. Be mindful of how societal norms may influence your expectations. - Tailor Your Approach:
- Adapt therapy techniques to fit the client’s communication and sensory needs.
- Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps to support executive functioning challenges.
- Foster Self-Advocacy:
Empower clients to identify their strengths, advocate for accommodations, and navigate systems that may not yet be inclusive.
Key Takeaway for Clinicians
Neurodiversity-affirming practice embraces the full spectrum of human neurological diversity. It’s a commitment to treating neurodivergent clients respectfully, adapting to their needs, and creating a therapeutic environment where they feel understood and valued.
By shifting from a “fix-it” mindset to acceptance and support, clinicians can foster genuine growth, trust, and well-being for neurodivergent individuals.