Neurodivergent Affirmative Assessments

Follow this link for details on AuDHD

Neurodiversity is a concept that recognises and celebrates the natural variations in human brain

functioning and cognitive styles. It suggests that neurological differences, such as autism, ADHD,

dyslexia, and other conditions, are simply variations of the human brain rather than disorders or

deficits.

The term "neurodiversity" emphasizes that these differences are not inherently good or bad, but

rather a natural and valuable part of the human experience. It promotes the idea that

neurodivergent individuals have unique strengths, perspectives, and contributions to offer to

society.

Neurodiversity challenges the traditional medical model that views neurological differences as

disorders that need to be fixed or cured. Instead, it encourages acceptance, understanding, and

support for neurodivergent individuals to thrive in their own way.

It's important to note that neurodiversity is not about romanticizing or ignoring the challenges that

some neurodivergent individuals may face. It simply seeks to shift the focus from trying to normalize

or change neurodivergent individuals to embracing and accommodating individual differences.

By embracing neurodiversity, it is hoped that we can work towards creating a more inclusive and

accepting society that values and respects the unique strengths and perspectives of all individuals,

regardless of their neurological makeup.

At RMC we have a deep understanding that Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are two distinct neurodevelopmental disorders, but they can sometimes present with overlapping symptoms. This overlap can make diagnosis challenging, especially since both conditions can co-occur in the same individual.

While there are similarities, there are also very distinct differences. At RMC we have clinical experience of understanding how stimulant medication may potentially trigger a different and unique set of mild side effects within Clients who present with AuDHD.

This approach emphasises the strengths and unique abilities of neurodivergent people and

 advocates for their inclusion, acceptance, and support within society.   

At RMC we embrace : 

Diversity & inclusion: Recognising that there are no "normal" brains and that neurodivergence 

contributes to diversity, which is beneficial for society. 

Adjusting expectations: Accepting diversity in communication and not expecting

neurodivergent people to conform to neurotypical standards.

Medical model: Rejecting the medical model that views neurodivergence as inherent 

defects and instead recognising the strengths and abilities of neurodivergent people. 

At RMC we embrace the idea that medication for ADHD offers many benefits when working and studying in a predominately neurotypical world.

Our neurodiversity-affirming approach is grounded in the social model of disability. The social model of disability is now the internationally recognised way to view and address ‘disability’. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) marks the official paradigm shift in attitudes towards people with disability and approaches to disability concerns.

We celebrate and embrace neurodivergence, focusing on creating supportive, inclusive spaces

 that respect each person’s identity. 

At Rainbow-Mandala Clinic  we use identity-first language: “I am Autistic” rather

 than “I have Autism”. This reflects the preference of the majority of our Autistic community

and shows that we understand Autism as a neuro-developmental difference, not a

disease.

We also uphold the absolute right of everyone to self-identify in any way they

may choose. We do not use traditional, pathologised language to distance Autism from a

disease.

 Autism is not a ‘deficit’ or a ‘disorder’; it is a difference. We reject functioning labels: these labels

are degrading, dehumanising and reductive, and there is no such thing as a

‘high functioning’ or a ‘low functioning’ Autistic.

We do not use the outdated and problematic term ‘Asperger’s syndrome’, or ‘Aspergers’.