Frequently Asked Questions


The difference between a neuroaffirming therapy practice and the medical model comes down to how they view neurodivergence (such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, etc.) and how they approach therapy and support.

Neuro-affirming Therapy Practice

A neuro-affirming approach recognizes neurodivergence as a natural variation of human brains rather than a disorder that needs to be "fixed." It is based on neurodiversity principles, meaning it supports and respects the ways neurodivergent people experience the world.

  • Key Principles:

    • Emphasizes acceptance rather than normalization.

    • Focuses on strengths-based approaches, recognizing that neurodivergent people have unique abilities.

    • Accommodates different sensory, communication, and processing needs.

    • Encourages self-advocacy and identity development.

    • Challenges harmful societal norms (e.g., compliance-based therapies that force masking or suppression of natural behaviors).

  • Therapeutic Goals:

    • Improve self-understanding and self-acceptance rather than making a person appear neurotypical.

    • Provide strategies to navigate challenges (like executive functioning difficulties) in ways that align with the person's natural brain wiring.

    • Support emotional regulation and sensory needs without suppression (e.g., allowing stimming rather than discouraging it).

Medical Model

The traditional medical model sees neurodivergence primarily as a condition or disorder that needs treatment or correction. It often focuses on reducing symptoms and helping individuals conform to neurotypical expectations.

  • Key Principles:

    • Views neurodivergence as a pathology that requires intervention.

    • Uses deficit-based language (e.g., “impairments,” “disruptive behaviors”).

    • Often prioritizes behavior modification over understanding the root cause of behaviors.

    • Tends to measure success based on how well a person masks or assimilates into neurotypical society.

  • Therapeutic Goals:

    • Reduce or eliminate behaviors that are considered "abnormal" (e.g., scripting, echolalia, fidgeting).

    • Teach coping mechanisms that promote independence—but often from a neurotypical lens.

    • Uses structured interventions like Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), which has been criticized for encouraging masking and compliance at the expense of mental health.

Which Approach is Better?

The Neuro-affirming model is generally preferred by neurodivergent individuals and advocacy groups because it promotes dignity, self-acceptance, and mental well-being. The medical model, while useful for diagnosing and treating co-occurring conditions (such as anxiety or depression), is often criticized for pathologizing neurodivergence and ignoring the lived experiences of neurodivergent people.

A balanced approach might include medical support when necessary (e.g., for co-occurring conditions) while prioritizing neuroaffirming, strengths-based therapy.

What is a Neuro-affirming therapy session like?

1. Welcoming & Regulation Check-In

The therapist ensures the client is comfortable in their environment (lighting, seating, sensory tools).

  • Instead of small talk, the session may start with a direct check-in:

    • "How are you feeling in your body right now?"

    • "Would you like to communicate verbally, in writing, or another way today?"

    • "Is there anything that would help you feel more regulated?"

2. Flexible Communication & Processing

The client is encouraged to express themselves in their preferred way (speaking, typing, drawing, movement, music etc.)

  • Pauses for processing time are respected.

  • The therapist avoids forcing eye contact or pressuring social norms.

    3. Strength-Based Exploration

    • Instead of focusing on "fixing" perceived deficits, the therapist highlights strengths and preferred ways of functioning.

    • Reframing challenges: "Your brain works in patterns—how can we use that to support you?"

    4. Sensory & Emotional Awareness

    • Acknowledging and validating sensory sensitivities.

    • Offering strategies that fit the client’s sensory profile (e.g., noise-canceling headphones, stimming tools).

    5. Autonomy & Consent-Based Approach

    • The therapist asks for consent before discussing difficult topics.

    • Clients are encouraged to set boundaries and take breaks as needed.

    6. Practical Coping Strategies (Customized, Not Compliance-Based)

    • Instead of forcing neurotypical behaviors, strategies are adapted to fit the client’s brain.

    • Example: Instead of "Just try harder to focus," exploring ways to work with attention differences, such as body-doubling, listening to music or gamification.

    7. Closure & Transition Planning

    • The session ends with a structured wrap-up to help with transitions.

    • The therapist may ask:

      • "Do you need help shifting out of session mode?"

      • "What’s one thing from today that felt helpful?"

      • “Do you need me to send an email with some resources and/or a summary of what we discussed today?”

What states are you licensed to practice in?

CT License

NJ License 44SC05978600

ME License LC24536

MD License

PA License

SC License TLS 1225 CP

VA License 0904018250

VT License 089.0136499

What is the difference between a Neuro-Affirming therapy practice and one that follows the medical model?