Finding Neurodiversity-Affirming Support
Understanding the difference between pathologizing and affirming approaches
If you or a family member are Neurodivergent and seeking support, how do you know what to look for?
For me, one of the most important qualities in a good coach, counsellor, tutor, or therapist is they are neurodiversity-affirming.
What does that mean?
Pathologizing is a focus on deficits, treating divergent brains as though they are sick and disordered. Professionals who pathologize focus on a person’s weaknesses, viewing differences as abnormalities.
Many focus on helping a person “fit in”, conform, and behave as neurotypical as possible. These approaches have been shown to be harmful.
Teaching an Autistic person to camouflage or mask their Autistic traits causes psychological distress and is even a risk factor for suicidality.
In contrast, an affirming approach is one that views neurodiversity as a positive part of human ecology. Different brains and neurotypes bring new perspectives, different ways of thinking and…
