Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapy
Understanding Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapy: Diversity in Mental Health
Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapists
When you hear the term "neurodiversity-affirming therapist," what comes to mind? It's a term that's gaining recognition in the world of mental health, and it represents a significant shift in how therapy is approached. In this article, we'll explore what it means for a therapist to be neurodiversity-affirming, why it matters, and how to find a therapist who aligns with this approach.
What Is Neurodiversity?
Neurodiversity is a concept that acknowledges the natural diversity in brain functioning and behavior. Just as people have varying heights, eye colors, and family traits, our brains also exhibit a wide range of differences. It's essential to understand that these differences are not flaws to be corrected but rather a part of the beautiful tapestry of human diversity.
However, society has often labeled certain neurotypes as "different" or "other" because they don't conform to neurotypical standards for behavior, communication, and cognition. In the field of psychology, neurotypical brains have historically been regarded as the “standard”, which has led to the pathologization of non-harmful behaviors and an attempt to enforce neurotypical standards. This traditional approach has caused harm to neurodivergent individuals.
Understanding Neurodivergence
Neurodivergence is a term coined by Dr. Judy Singer, a sociologist, to describe how each person's brain develops uniquely, influencing their thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and perceptions of the world. While there's no single definition of "normal" when it comes to brain development, the term neurodivergence is used to encompass those whose experiences fall outside of social expectations for "typical."
Some neurodivergent individuals may have disabilities as a result of their unique brain functioning, while others do not consider their neurodivergence a disability. Both perspectives are valid. In recent years, neurodivergence has often been associated with neurodevelopmental disabilities like learning disorders, ADHD, autism, and intellectual disabilities. However, Dr. Singer's original intent was to include all brains that deviate from neurotypical standards, including those with mental health diagnoses.
So, if your experience of the world differs from typical expectations, you may be considered neurodivergent.
Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapy: What Does It Entail?
Neurodiversity-affirming therapy is not about specific techniques or scripted interventions. Instead, it's a guiding philosophy that shapes how a therapist views their clients and their experiences. A neurodiversity-affirming therapist understands that neurodivergence, in itself, is not a defect or an affliction that needs fixing. However, they also acknowledge that neurodivergence can bring challenges.
In essence, a neurodiversity-affirming therapist recognizes that each client is the expert on their own experience and validates the full spectrum of their experiences—both positive and challenging. They allow neurodivergent communities to lead discussions about appropriate language, interventions, and resources rather than imposing neurotypical expectations.
My approach is grounded in accompanying clients on their journey towards a greater acceptance of their experiences. Often neurodiverse people have experienced continuous non-affirming reinforcements from an early age and so changing self-view is confounded by their life experience. Like most journeys in life, it is not a straight line, in fact there are always false-starts and dead-ends to contend with. There is a wonderful book that explains this process in a lot more detail, giving both the theory and relatable examples (Journeys Through ADDulthood, by Sari Solden).
“After so many years identifying so closely with your AD/HD symptoms, you cannot expect your self-image to be instantly corrected with this first part of treatment.” - Sari Solden None-Affirming Therapy: The Risks
Therapy has not always embraced neurodiversity, often assuming that neurodivergence is something to be corrected. Unfortunately, this approach can lead to clients being pushed to change their behaviors solely because they deviate from the norm, even if those behaviors are not harmful.
For instance, the autistic community has voiced concerns about treatments like Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA), which encourages autistic individuals to suppress stimming behaviors (self-stimulating behaviors), even when stimming serves as a coping mechanism or self-regulation. Such therapies aim to make individuals appear less autistic, which can be incredibly stressful and lead to burnout.
Therapists who aren't neurodiversity-affirming may also lack knowledge about neurodivergent communities, placing the burden on clients to educate them. This extra demand on clients during therapy can be challenging.
In essence, neurodiversity-affirming therapy is a form of cultural competence. Therapists who embrace this approach have taken steps to acknowledge potential biases and acquire knowledge about neurodivergent clients, ensuring that they avoid causing harm.
How to Find a Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapist
If you're a neurodivergent person seeking therapy and you want a therapist who understands and respects neurodiversity, here's some suggestions. First, research prospective therapists. Keep in mind that not all therapists are well-versed in neurodiversity-affirming practices, so it's essential to inquire about their approach.
You can ask potential therapists if they consider themselves neurodiversity-affirming and what that means in their practice. Many therapists who embrace this approach will mention it on their website or in therapist directories, making it easier for you to identify them.
Remember that finding the right therapist may require some trial and error. It's okay to explore multiple providers until you find the right fit for your unique needs. In the end, therapy should be a supportive and affirming experience that respects your identity and experience, embracing the diversity that makes you, you.
References:
Amy Marschall’s blog post titled ‘What Does It Mean For a Therapist to Be Neurodiversity-Affirming?' discusses neurodiversity and therapy. I really enjoyed the post and used Amy’s post as my jumping off point for the above post.
Journeys Through ADDulthood - Sari Solden
Counselling for the neurodiverse in South Edmonton
Caroline offers a no-charge 15 minute virtual “meet-and-greet” session, perfect for asking questions and deciding next steps.
