Reflecting on Neuroaffirming Practice: Learning, Growing, and Moving Forward

At Blackburn Speech & Paediatric Therapy, we believe that ongoing reflection is what drives our profession forward. We recognise that some of our past reports and documents contained deficit-based language and non-neurodiversity-affirming themes. While these documents were often written within the framework of existing medical and educational systems, we acknowledge that this language may not have fully reflected the strengths and identities of the individuals we work with.

At the same time, we understand that many funding and support systems still rely on a deficit-based model to determine eligibility. Some of our past blog posts were created to help families navigate these systems so they could access the resources they need. While we acknowledge the current reality, we are also committed to advocating for a shift towards a strengths-based, neuroaffirming future.

What Neuroaffirming Practice Means to Us

Being neuroaffirming is more than just changing the words we use—it’s about creating an environment where neurodivergent individuals feel seen, valued, and supported.

At Blackburn Speech & Paediatric Therapy, we:

✅ Take a strengths-based approach, building on each individual’s unique abilities rather than focusing on deficits.

✅ Tailor therapy to meet each client’s needs, prioritizing their well-being.

✅ Support healthy coping mechanisms, helping children develop strategies that work for them.

✅ Celebrate all communication methods, recognizing that speech is just one of many valid ways to communicate.

✅ Uplift the entire family, ensuring that support extends beyond the individual to the people who care for them. Many of our clients describe our approach as “comprehensive care” because we strive to support and celebrate both neurodivergent individuals and their families.

By continuing to listen, reflect, and adapt, we aim to create a space where neurodivergent individuals are not just supported, but truly celebrated for who they are.

We appreciate the colleagues, advocates, and neurodivergent voices that continue to shape and challenge our understanding. It is through reflection and change that we move forward as a profession.

#NeuroaffirmingPractice #Neurodiversity #StrengthsBasedApproach #InclusiveTherapy #SpeechPathology