NEURODIVERGENT AFFIRMING CLINICIAN STARTER PACK:A STARTER PACK TO MAKING YOUR PRACTICE AFFIRMING FOR AUTISTIC FOLKS
Disclaimers:
Land Acknowledgment: We live and work on the unseated territories of the Wahpekute and Chumash peoples, we pay respects to their elders past and present. We encourage folks to explore the ancestral lands they live and work on, and to learn about the Native communities that live there, the treaties that have been broken. If folks feel called, we encourage them to consider taking actions to support Native communities, reparations, and land back movements (see other resources on the references page).
A note on language: The language in the DSM, including the use of the word disorder (D in acronym), some find this harmful, while others prefer the language “disorder.” When this language is used, it is because, as mental health professionals, we need to use this same language when referring to “diagnoses” in the DSM. In addition some Autistics find the use of the level system helpful in identifying the level of support needed, while others view it as an overly simplistic way of defining something that’s fluid, and may feel it’s harmful and minimizing. The beauty is that each individual gets to choose what language feels validating and affirming to them. Inspired by Dr. Jennifer Mullan, we use the term, “therapy participant” rather than “client” or “patient,” as we work toward decolonizing therapy.
Educational Purposes: The information presented here is for educational purposes, and not meant to diagnose, treat or cure medical conditions or challenges, including neurodivergence (including mental health challenges), or physical health.
So you want to be a neurodivergent affirming clinician? Super! We need more affirming therapists, medication managers, mental health providers, clinicians, etc! (And if you’re not a clinician, yet wondered about affirming language, terminology used within the Autistic community, and are curious about resources - then you may be interested, too! Plus - you can always send this to clinicians in your life)!
Though, I should tell you that you do not become a neurodivergent clinician by simply reading this downloadable (I know, sorry)!. Another thing I should tell you, is you won’t actually get a physical package (disappointing, I know). Think of this as an eco-friendly, next best offering. A compilation of *some* language shifts to make or consider, terminology to be aware of and resources (all of these things are barely scratching the surface so-to-speak).
This process of becoming a neurodivergent affirming (ND-affirming) clinician is continual processing of learning and growth. It requires a commitment to tolerating discomfort. It requires cultural humility; naming when you made an error, and committing to doing better. It requires that as you continue to learn, you commit to shifting your language & practices. This PDF is intended as a jumping off point.
In the downloadable, you’ll find:
Neuro-affirming language considerations, such as language to use instead of saying “high functioning Autism” or “high functioning Autistic,”
Terminology to know when working with Autistic folks, “Autistic burnout,” “stimming,” “unmasking,” and more!
Accommodations to offer in therapy:
Autism therapy - is that even a thing? Well, depends on what that means. If you’re providing therapy to Autistic folks, the goal is NOT to “cure” Autism, because, well, it can’t be cured, and also there’s nothing wrong with us.
Resources to continue your learning
And more!
Another thing to note before we dive in, is that neurodivergence is an umbrella term, and there are many things that fall under the neurodivergent umbrella. Check out more on that here. For the purposes of this downloadable, we’ll be focusing on primarily Autism. If you have interest for learning about neuro-affirming practices for folks with other identities - leave a comment and let us know which type of neurodivergence you’d like to learn more about, next!
Each individual has different feelings and preferences with regards to language and terminology. One Autistic individual may prefer identity first language, while another may prefer person. Some folks don’t mind the label “disorder,” while others find this demeaning and prefer “disability” when referring to Autism. Defer to each individual and use the language that they use!
Now that that’s all out of the way, without further ado, drumroll please…. are you ready to learn how you can adapt your practice to best support Autistic therapy participants? Well, get your starter pack here!
