What is Neurodiversity Affirming Therapy?
Here at NeurodiversOTy we guide families using a more social-model of disability, rather than the medical model, such as addressing people with identity first language (‘Autistic person’) acknowledging that this is also a personal preference) and promoting access to more inclusive and sensory friendly spaces. As more research and advocacy is done in this area, we aim to continue to learn, grow, and adapt based on Autistic-led, evidence based research and the Autistic community.
A neurodiversity-affirming approach is simple and driven by human rights at its core. It is about respect and acceptance of all brains, understanding that neurodivergence is a part of the natural variation in our population, not something to be judged or shameful of.
Neuro-affirming Occupational Therapy seeks to support individuals by looking at the person as a whole, considering the Person, Environment, and their Occupations (daily activities of life). We help children and families find ways to participate in the activities that are meaningful to them and advocate for these supports, regardless of whether or not they align with societal expectations.
Support
We aim to support the individual, their family, and their wider support network to create safe, respectful, and responsive environments for each individuals unique needs. The individual is the driver for change. Their differences, strengths, and values are supported through implementing strategies that fit with that individual.
Advocate
Advocacy plays a crucial role in helping children and families get the appropriate supports, and rights they deserve. Advocacy involves education - fostering the skills to build self-awareness, build tools, and learn to advocate this for themselves throughout their life in a way that supports their aspirations, skills, and values.
Empower
Fostering education, exploring tailored strategies, and addressing individual needs, paves the way for clients to embrace and feel empowered by their neurodivergence. We aim to equips clients with the skills needed to actively participate in their daily activities and pursue the life goals they aspire to accomplish.
