Neurodiversity is a term used to describe the natural variations in how human brains develop, encompassing everyone but often used in reference to individuals with autism, ADHD, giftedness, and other developmental or neurological conditions (Baumer & Freuh, 2021). Neurodiversity-affirming therapy represents a paradigm shift in mental health care, moving away from the traditional medical model, which views neurological differences as deficits to be fixed. Instead, it embraces the strengths and identities of neurodivergent individuals, providing support that honors their unique experiences and helps them thrive with appropriate accommodations.
This approach emerged from the growing neurodiversity self-advocacy movement, particularly within the autism community, where a need for more inclusive, strength-based perspectives in therapy became evident. Neurodiversity-affirming therapy is about working with clients to help them accept, understand, and work with their strengths rather than trying to "fix" differences.
How Can Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapy Help?
In the words of author Elizabeth Gilbert, “To be fully seen by somebody, and be loved anyhow, is a human offering that can border on miraculous.” Neurodiversity-affirming therapy provides individuals with tailored tools and guidance that align with their unique needs, strengths, and challenges. By being understood and accepted for who they truly are, clients often experience greater self-compassion, improved mental health, and increased confidence to navigate life’s challenges.
How Effective is Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapy?
Research shows that when therapy is personalized and celebrates neurodivergent identities, clients often experience increased self-esteem, autonomy, and reduced feelings of shame (Paricos et al., 2024). On the contrary, clients who did not receive neurodiversity-affirming care reported worsening symptoms and poorer mental health outcomes (Kroll et al., 2024). This highlights the importance of an affirming approach in promoting well-being for neurodivergent individuals.
What to Expect from Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapists:
Personalized Therapy: Therapy is tailored to fit your individual needs and strengths.
Client-Centered Approach: Your worldview and lived experience guide the therapeutic process, rather than imposing an external framework.
Holistic Perspective: Therapists consider how societal structures, relationships, and community play a role in your care and well-being.
Accommodating Your Needs: Therapists work realistically with accommodations, meeting you where you are and empowering you to succeed.
Click here to learn more about neurodivergent therapy.
Author Bio:
Cecilia (Cici) Ye-O’Neill is a Registered Psychologist at Eckert Psychology & Education Centre, specializing in neurodiversity-affirming therapy. She earned her Master’s of Science in Educational Psychology from the University of Calgary and works with children, teenagers, adults, and couples (including neurodiverse couples) to build resilience and self-understanding. Cici’s therapy is rooted in a neurodiversity-affirming approach, paired with EMDR, allowing her to work effectively within the world of neurodiversity and trauma. She also provides mental health and psycho-educational assessments, as well as academic counseling for students of all ages.
Contact: Reach her at cye@eckertcentre.com or follow her on Instagram @seecicipsych for therapy tips and casual psych memes. Reach the rest of the team at info@eckert-psychology.com and follow us on Instagram @eckertcentreyyc.
Additional Resources on Neurodiversity:
Books:
- Neurodiversity: The Birth of an Idea by Judy Singer. A foundational text on the history and development of the neurodiversity movement.
- Neurotribes: The Legacy of Autism and the Future of Neurodiversity by Steve Silberman. An exploration of the history and meaning of neurodiversity, particularly within the autism community.
- Divergent Mind: Thriving in a World That Wasn’t Designed for You by Jenara Nerenberg. A focus on neurodivergence, particularly in women and gender differences.
Professional Organizations and Websites:
Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN)
Resources and guidelines for neurodiversity-affirming practices.
The Neurodiversity Hub
A resource hub focused on neurodiversity and related counseling approaches.
The National Autistic Society (NAS)
Information and guidelines on neurodiversity and inclusive practices.
Online Resources and Blogs:
Neurodiversity News
A platform for news and insights on neurodiversity.
References:
Baumer, N., & Freuh, J. (2021, November 23). What is neurodiversity? Harvard Health Publishing. Link
Kroll, E., Lederman, M., Kohlmeier, J., Kumar, K., Ballard, J., Zand, I., & Fenkel, C. (2024). The positive impact of identity-affirming mental health treatment for neurodivergent individuals. Frontiers in Psychology, 15. Link
Paricos, A., Sturrock, A., Twomey, K., & Leadbitter, K. (2024). “I’m not mad, bad, and dangerous … simply wired differently”: Exploring factors contributing to good quality of life with autistic women. Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders, 112. Link
.jpg)
