Neurodiversity and Neurodivergence

and who do I work with?

The term 'Neurodiversity' is rooted in the social model of disability. It emerged within the early autistic activist community in the 1990's. It simply means a group of diverse individuals who interact and perceive the world in different ways. The whole population of Earth is neurodiverse; however, one singular person cannot be diverse. Similar to the diversity we see in nature, biodiversity. The social model of disability, in essence, means the belief that disabled people don't need to be 'fixed', but our environments need to be adapted, as that's what disables us.

Disclaimer: While I embrace the concept of neurodiversity, I want to clarify that we do not align with the recent viewpoints expressed by Judy Singer who by some is considered its coiner. The term "neurodiversity" is a vital part of the community's identity, and I affirm my commitment to inclusion and the support of LGBTQIA+ people and rights.

The term Neurodivergent was coined by Kassiane Asasumas. It refers to a social position in which people who are marginalised, pathologised, oppressed and labelled as "ill" or "disordered" for functioning in a way that diverges from neuronormativity, an oppressive system that believes there is a right or superior way to function. (Credit for the above definition: "The lived experience educator")

My trading name, "Navigate Neurodiversity OT", refers to navigating the concept of neurodiversity, the social model of disability, understanding your own neurotype/s, and exploring our wellbeing as a neurodivergent adult.

I work with anyone who feels they come under the umbrella of being neurodivergent. Perhaps you have traits or differences in areas such as sensorimotor, communication, time perception, etc. I work with people who have a diagnosis or who are self-identifying as a particular neurotype, or who just identify as neurodivergent.

Here is a non-exhaustive list of some neurotypes and areas people frequently come for support connected to:

Autism
ADHD
Dyspraxia
Dyslexia
Anxiety
Fatigue
Worry
Sensory needs
Workplace challenges

I have a particular interest in working with Autistic women and LGBTQIA+ people. I do not exclude any one neurotype form my support, however i will always assess if i am the right person to provide support to each client based on a number of factors, to ensure i am practicing ethically.

I also recognise that many neurodivergent people may also have:

ME/CFS (Chronic fatigue)
Chronic/persistent pain
Fibromyalgia
MCAS
Hypermobility / connective tissue
Long-covid
POTS
Other mental and physical health needs

I am hypermobile with persistent pain myself!

Therefore, I take a biopsychosocial and holistic approach that considers all aspects of your life.

Do feel free to contact me to set up a free discovery call to discuss if our services would be suited to your needs. Alternatively, email me if you have any questions.