What is Neurodiversity Affirming Care?

By Tiny Sprouts Therapy Speech Language Pathology, Inc. l Where We Grow & Play

Pediatric Speech Therapy in Los Angeles & Long Beach

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At Tiny Sprouts Therapy, we are always growing in our understanding of how to best support neurodivergent children and their families. We have been encouraged by the increase in research that embraces neurodiversity affirming care, but a recent study shared by Informed SLP reminds us that there is still a long way to go.

The study, conducted by Zoe Darazsdi and Christine Bialka in 2023, highlights the real and often painful experiences of autistic individuals in mental health settings. Participants described being misunderstood, stigmatized, and even harmed by providers who failed to listen, made assumptions, or dismissed their needs.

As professionals dedicated to creating safe and respectful environments, we believe it is essential to reflect on these findings and work toward meaningful change.

Examine Implicit Biases

The study includes powerful firsthand accounts from autistic individuals who were told things like "you could not be autistic, you are too smart" or "people with Asperger's are not leaders." These are not just passing comments. They are examples of the deep stigma and misunderstanding that still exists today.

To move forward, we must take time to recognize and unlearn the biases we carry. That includes letting go of outdated beliefs about what autism should look like and listening without judgment.

Listen to Autistic Voices

Several participants in the study shared how their needs and experiences were ignored or mischaracterized. One woman who experienced severe sensory challenges was labeled as anxious and hysterical. Because of that dismissal, she faced years of misdiagnosis and ineffective interventions.

This is a clear reminder that we must take autistic people seriously. When someone shares their perspective, especially around sensory needs or communication style, our role is to listen, believe, and respond with respect.

Use Respectful Language

Language reflects our values. One participant expressed a strong preference for identity first language, such as autistic person, yet her therapist continued using other terms against her wishes. This made her feel unseen and disrespected.

There is no single right answer about language, but there is a right approach: ask what a person prefers, then honor it. We also encourage shifting away from clinical terms like symptoms or red flags. Instead, try words like traits or characteristics, and consider using high or low support needs in place of functioning labels. Small changes in language can have a big impact.

Focus on Strengths

Several participants described therapy sessions that focused only on their perceived deficits. One person explained that so much time was spent working on social skills that they never had time to actually be social.

A neurodiversity affirming approach emphasizes each person’s strengths. Therapy should help clients explore their interests, connect with others in meaningful ways, and develop confidence—not just practice passing as neurotypical.

Avoid Limiting Assumptions

Many participants said they were discouraged from pursuing career goals or relationships after disclosing an autism diagnosis. Some internalized these beliefs, which negatively impacted their self confidence.

Therapists and professionals must never assume that someone is in therapy to change who they are. We must not assume that autistic traits need to be corrected. Instead, we can partner with each person to understand their goals and support their unique path forward.

As the authors wrote, the client is always the expert on themselves. That includes autistic clients, who are especially vulnerable to uneven power dynamics in therapy.

Final Thoughts

Thanks to Informed SLP for spotlighting this important research. The work of Darazsdi and Bialka is not easy to read, but it is crucial. It shows us where harm has happened and how we can do better.

At Tiny Sprouts Therapy, we are committed to creating spaces where autistic individuals feel valued, respected, and supported. Change does not happen overnight, but by staying open, listening deeply, and holding ourselves accountable, we can help build a future that embraces every child for who they are.

Source

Darazsdi, Zoe, and Christine S. Bialka. "Oh you could not be autistic Examining anti autistic bias and self esteem in the therapeutic alliance." Autism, 2023. https://doi.org/10.1177/13623613231154622

Summary provided by Informed SLP.