Neurodiversity-Affirming Practice Course: A Core Competency for Psychologists

Module 1: Foundations Of Neuro-Affirming Practice

Introduction To Neurodiversity

A comprehensive look into how we understand and approach neurological differences. You'll explore the historical and current models of disability, learn about the different types of neurodivergence, and understand what a neuro-affirming practice looks like.

Core Principles Of Neuro-Affirming Practice

Dive into the fundamental principles that underpin a neuro-affirming practice, emphasising a shift from traditional, deficit-focused approaches to those that celebrate and support neurodiversity. You'll learn how to implement these principles in your interactions and environment, ensuring a more inclusive and empowering experience for neurodivergent individuals.

Module 2: Understanding Neurodiversity Through a Neuro-Affirming Lens

Autism And ADHD

Explore Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) through a neurodiversity lens, moving beyond traditional deficit-based perspectives. You'll gain a deeper understanding of key terms, social interactions, and the unique strengths associated with these neurotypes.

Dyslexia And Dyscalculia

Delve into Dyslexia and Dyscalculia, two specific learning differences, moving beyond a deficit-based understanding to highlight their unique cognitive profiles and associated strengths.

Neurodiversity Intersectionality

Explore how the experience of being neurodivergent is shaped by a person's other identities, such as gender, race, sexuality, and socioeconomic status. It highlights that neurodivergence is not a monolithic experience, and these intersections can lead to unique challenges and strengths.

Module 3: Assessment and Formulation from a Neuro-Affirming Perspective

Rethinking Assessment Practices

Learn how psychological assessment can be made more neuro-affirming. Explore the purpose of assessment—to form and test hypotheses for effective support planning—and then reflect on traditional practices, advocating for a shift away from a deficit-based model.

Issues With Underlying Assumptions For Adaptive Functioning Assessments

Explore the limitations of adaptive functioning assessments, which are used to measure an individual's ability to perform everyday tasks for diagnostic and support planning purposes. It reflects on how these assessments, often based on standardised tests, may be inadequate for neurodivergent individuals due to their underlying assumptions.

Adopting The Neurodiversity Paradigm When Determining Neurodivergence and Assessing Preferences and Strengths

An outline on how to adopt a neurodiversity paradigm in psychological and adaptive functioning assessments, shifting from a deficit-based model to one that affirms and respects natural human differences. The goal is to make assessments more collaborative, accurate, and supportive.

Module 4: Therapeutic Interventions and Support within the Neuro-affirming framework

The Concept Of 'Masking' And Its Impact On Well-being

Dive into masking, a common experience for neurodivergent individuals, particularly autistic people. It examines why masking occurs, how it manifests, and its significant impact on mental health and well-being.

Collaborative Goal Setting With the Neuro-affirming Framework

Learn about the importance of adopting a neuro-affirming framework in collaborative goal setting, shifting the focus from remediation of deficits to leveraging an individual's unique strengths to improve their quality of life.

Recognise And Address Ethical Considerations

Explore the critical role of ethical considerations within a neuro-affirming framework, guided by principles such as those outlined in the APS Code of Ethics (2007). It focuses on ensuring respect, autonomy, and cultural competence in all psychological practices involving neurodivergent individuals.