Neurodiverse Affirming approach
A neurodivergent approach helps a neurodivergent person feel at ease and fosters their self-esteem.
A Neurodiverse Affirming Approach could involve helping someone feel comfortable by:
1. Adjusting a room’s lighting to suit a person who is negatively affected by the lights;
2. Allowing a person to avoid eye contact, when they find it uncomfortable to give it and/or
3. Providing a wobble stool or standing desk to someone who benefits from moving their body throughout the day.
Therapists such as an occupational therapist (O.T.) and psychologist can help care providers understand a neurodiverse child’s needs. E.g. an O.T. can provide strategies to help your child feel relaxed.
If you are planning to see a therapist and want the therapist to have a Neurodiverse Affirming Approach, check if the therapist is neurodiverse affirming when enquiring about an appointment.
Read more on Neurodiverse Affirming Approach from the psychology team Your Mind Matters and/or listen to more about it on Sound Cloud from Speech Pathology Australia, via the links below:
https://yourmindmatters.net.au/a-neurodiversity-affirming-approach-what-is-it-and-how-can-it-support-your-children/
https://soundcloud.com/speechpathologyaustralia/neurodiversity-affirming-practice-s04-e41
To support neurodiversity in your workplace you could refer to this book:
Neurodiverse Workplace: An Employer’s Guide to Managing and Working with Neurodirgent Employees, Clients and Customers
References:
Nicky Trussler, Possum House. (2024, 09). Talk at Portland, Victoria, Library.
Super-You Therapy. (2023, 05). Neurodiversity for Speech Pathology Australia (W.A. Branch)
Internet links, books and podcasts mentioned in this written piece
Written by Jessica Bibby
Copyright 03 11 2024
