Neurodiversity - affirming care

Written by: Annelise Kohler, RN Psychotherapist

You might have heard the term Neurodiversity-Affirming being thrown around a lot lately in therapy and healthcare spaces, and you might be wondering:
Would this apply to me?
Is it something I should be looking for in a therapist?
What if I haven’t been diagnosed with ADHD or Autism?
Am I allowed to ask for modifications in therapy if I’m Neurodivergent? How do I know if a therapist is actually affirming?

Let’s clear up some terminology because it’s a big topic; to understand how a therapist might apply Neurodiversity-Affirming Care, we first need to start with the basics.

Neurodiversity
This is the concept that no two brains are alike in how they function, whether this be how we think, how we feel, how we process information, or how we pay attention, every single brain is different.

Neurodiverse
This term refers to a population of people in which there would be variation and diversity in the way brains and minds work. Sometimes it is mistakenly used for Neurodivergent, which means something else.

Neurodivergent
Let’s be clear: this does not mean not normal. Often, we see this term being used for ADHD and Autism, and while it can refer to these experiences, it is actually an umbrella term, describing anyone who has not benefitted socially, or has been marginalized or oppressed, just because of the way their brain works. You do not need a diagnosis to call yourself Neurodivergent.

Neurotypical
On the flip side, this does not mean normal. What it means is that someone who is neurotypical has benefitted socially, because they can sustainably and/or comfortably conform to Neuronormativity.

Neuronormativity
This term describes a system of power that reinforces the idea that there is a superior or more normal way of functioning. It is oppressive and based on capitalistic and colonial ideologies. Unfortunately our society still values

Neuronormativity
This means that folks who are Neurodivergent will unfortunately not be accommodated automatically and often will have to fight for their needs.

Neurodiversity Movement
This is a social justice movement that rejects

Neuronormativity and is based on equality, inclusion, and respect for Neurodivergent folks. This movement is what Neurodiversity-Affirming Care is based on.

Neurodiversity-Affirming Care
This model of care recognizes that variations in the way we think, feel, process, focus, communicate, and perceive sensory information, are not deficits and it does not pathologize these differences. It does not seek to “fix” or “cure” Neurodivergence. Instead, a therapist who applies this model would adapt already existing therapies to suit the individual’s needs, to help make therapy more accessible and decrease barriers. This could mean but is not limited to:

respecting sensory boundaries, reducing unnecessary demands and helping someone

manage their energy capacity, creating a space where someone feels safe unmasking,

supporting non-verbal communication, or helping someone advocate for

accommodation needs.

If you think you might benefit from a therapist who understands and applies

Neurodiversity-Affirming Care, please do not hesitate to reach out.