Neuro-Affirming Practice
Neuro-affirming practice includes approaches that recognise and support diverse neurodevelopmental profiles of individuals, particularly conditions of autism, ADHD and dyslexia.
The emphasis is on understanding and affirming the unique ways in which neurodivergent individuals perceive and interact with the world and the value that brings to human experience.
Key aspects include:
- Validation – acknowledging and valuing neurodivergent experiences and perspectives
- Personalisation – adapting strategies and interventions to meet individual needs with an understanding each individual requires a different approach
- Strengths-based – leveraging the unique strengths and talents of neurodivergent individuals as a platform from which challenges are viewed and interventions built
- Collaboration – viewing the process of decision-making about supports and interventions as requiring involvement of the neurodivergent client and their family
- Education and awareness – promoting the value of embracing neurodiversity within communities, schools and workplaces.
Neuro-affirming practice is primarily about creating inclusive environments that celebrate diversity of human experience and empower each individual to thrive.