Neuro-Affirming Care
What is it?
At NEST, we subscribe to a neurodiversity-affirming approach to therapy that is founded on the understanding that all brains, like fingerprints, are uniquely wired and as such, require different input in order to succeed across various societal environments. These "neuro" differences affect how people engage and process themselves and the world around them. The term "neurodiversity" refers to the natural variation in human brains, including Autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and many other neurological differences.
While there is no singular way to provide neuro-affirming care, the heart of NEST’s philosophy is centered on safe, trauma-informed care, ALWAYS. Therapists at NEST believe that neurological differences should be valued, accepted, and accommodated, rather than treated as disorders or deficiencies. An ongoing and collaborative assessment and therapeutic process aims to tailor care that addresses an individual's specific strengths and needs, and builds understanding and empathy in the community at large, rather than normalizing a person for society’s comfort.
How do we practice it?
At NEST, the standard for care starts with understanding and accepting neurodiversity and neurodivergence. It is the foundation for providing individualized and trauma-informed health related services and coaching, including speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and counseling services for individuals across the lifespan. Approaching therapy from a neuro-affirming lens allows our therapists to meet clients where they are and build upon their strengths. Thus promoting client engagement in therapy services, while simultaneously empowering their self-awareness and right to choose how and when they use the skills we have taught. Neurodiversity is also the platform on which we choose to educate the greater community. Our values at NEST empower our therapists to contribute to society through educating our community about the individual strengths that each and every human possesses, and how, highlighting these strengths creates a stronger and more inclusive world.
