What is Neuroaffirming care?
Neuroaffirming care is an approach that respects and validates neurodiversity, recognising neurological differences, such as autism, ADHD, and other cognitive variations, are natural and valuable aspects of human diversity rather than deficits to be "fixed." This approach prioritises understanding and supporting an individual's unique needs, strengths, and ways of experiencing the world, rather than imposing neurotypical norms. Neuroaffirming care fosters autonomy, self-acceptance, and self-advocacy by providing accommodations, reducing sensory and cognitive barriers, and challenging harmful stigmas. It is person-centred, trauma-informed, and collaborative, ensuring that individuals feel safe, heard, and empowered in their care. By focusing on strengths and affirming identity, neuroaffirming care promotes genuine well-being and helps individuals navigate life in a way that aligns with their authentic selves.
Historically, neurodivergent individuals have often faced misunderstanding, stigma, and discrimination, leading to significant trauma (hello Lost generation!). Many have been pressured to conform to neurotypical expectations through harmful practices such as forced masking, compliance-based therapies, and exclusionary education and workplace systems. This has resulted in experiences of chronic invalidation, social isolation, and heightened vulnerability to anxiety, depression, and burnout. In medical and mental health settings, neurodivergent individuals have frequently been misdiagnosed, dismissed, or subjected to interventions that prioritise "normalising" behaviours rather than understanding their needs. These experiences can create deep-seated distress and mistrust, making it essential for modern care to shift toward neuroaffirming approaches that prioritise safety, respect, and genuine support. Recognising this history allows us to break cycles of harm and create spaces where neurodivergent individuals can heal, thrive, and be fully accepted for who they are.
What is our role now?
As clinicians, our role in neurodiversity-affirming care is to listen with curiosity and compassion, honouring each individual’s unique neurotype without judgment or assumption. The therapeutic space aims to validate lived experience, support self-understanding, and affirm neurodivergent ways of being. This means attuning to the person in front of us, adapting our approach to meet their communication style, sensory needs, and cognitive preferences, while challenging internalised and systemic ableism. At its core, neuroaffirming practice is about connection, respect, and celebrating the full diversity of human minds.
At recoverED, we strive to practice from a neuroaffirming framework for neurodiverse individuals with eating disorders. Our therapy is tailored to each person’s unique needs, creating a supportive, understanding, and accessible recovery space.
Contact us to find out if we may be the right fit for you.
