Philosophy
There is no one right way to think, act, or be social. Just as ecological diversity is essential to the thriving of an ecosystem, neurological diversity is essential to the thriving of a human population.
What is Neurodiversity?
The term Neurodiversity was initially coined by Judy Singer, Autistic advocate. Neurodiversity aims to promote acceptance and appreciation for neurological diversity. Neurotypical refers to mainstream neurology, a particular means of processing information, understanding and adhering to mainstream expectations and social norms.
Neurodiversity encompasses Autism, ADH (the second D is pathologizing, although the first D kinda sucks too), learning disabilities, dyslexia, Bipolar and other unique wiring. We avoid the use of language such as "Autism Spectrum Disorder" (commonly known as “ASD”) or "Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder," as these terms are pathologizing in their language. We also avoid terms like Asperger’s and “high and low-functioning.” These date back to the Holocaust and the eugenics movement and equate human value with productivity. Neurodiversity, on the other hand, appreciates the value in all types of wiring.
Neurodiversity takes us away from traditional psychology and the deficit-based medical model for explaining who a person is or why they are the way they are. I’m so done with Neurodivergent people being told that they are “broken, wrong, incapable, disordered, bad, lazy, manipulative, etc.” I don’t “treat” people or a diagnosis.
I cultivate relationships and opportunities for people to:
connect with their strengths
access their capacity for pleasure, delight, and neutrality
be honest about their challenges
recognize their innate wisdom to get their needs met
understand & appreciate how they perceive the world and process information
feel accepted, respected, and valued
create a toolbox of strategies for coping AND thriving
find healing from the trauma that stems from being marginalized (ie ableism and other intersectionality)
I collaborate with my clients to help them design their lives to be in greatest alignment with who they are. I look at sensory, environmental, relational/social, professional, educational, and passion-based needs, affinities, disaffinities, abilities, and disabilities. I recognize the monumental feat of being human on planet Earth, and I advocate for my clients. I inspire hope, connection, self-understanding, self-love, and dreams realized.
