Neurodiversity Explained: Celebrating Strengths and Differences in Every Brain
At Better Together Therapy, we believe that every brain is unique. The word neurodiversity reflects the idea that there isn’t one “right” way of thinking, learning, or experiencing the world. Instead, human brains are naturally diverse.
While the term is often linked to autism and ADHD, it also includes other neurotypes, such as dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia, Tourette’s, and more. By embracing neurodiversity, we move away from seeing differences as “deficits” and instead recognise them as part of the rich variation of human life.
What Is Neurodiversity?
Neurodiversity describes the natural variation in how people think, process, and experience the world.
Neurodivergent is used to describe someone whose brain works differently to what is considered the “typical” neurotype. For example, an autistic person, an ADHDer, or someone who is both (AuDHD).
Neurotypical refers to people whose brains align with the majority style of thinking and processing.
The Neurodiversity Movement
The neurodiversity movement promotes acceptance, inclusion, and respect for all neurotypes. Instead of asking neurodivergent people to “fit in,” the focus is on creating environments where they can thrive as their authentic selves.
Some key ideas include:
Language matters: Many autistic people prefer identity-first language (e.g., autistic person) rather than person-first language (person with autism). But preferences do vary, so its important to ask each individual how they’d like to be described.
Strengths-focused support: Instead of trying to “fix” differences, support should build on strengths while also addressing areas in need of support.
Inclusive environments: Schools, workplaces, and communities adapting to the needs of neurodivergent people, not the other way around.
This approach moves society away from a medical model of disability (where differences are problems to be treated) and towards a social model of disability (where barriers in society are the problem, not the person).
Why Language Is Important
The words we use can either affirm identity or reinforce stigma.
Below we have summarised some helpful language swaps:
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We are moving away from phrases such as “high-functioning” or “low-functioning” because it can oversimplify and not accurately capture an individual’s abilities. For example, someone may appear “high-functioning” at school or work but still experience significant challenges with sensory overload at home.
Neurodiversity in Everyday Life
Neurodivergence can influence many areas of life, from learning to communication, movement, and sensory experiences. For example:
A dyslexic child may struggle with reading but excel in visual-spatial thinking and problem-solving
An autistic person might find loud, unpredictable environments overwhelming but bring deep focus and expertise in areas of interest
Someone with ADHD may find organisation tricky but thrive in fast-paced, dynamic environments where creativity is valued
Understanding these differences means we can better support individuals to succeed without expecting them to suppress who they are.
Neurodiversity-Affirming Support: What It Looks Like
Celebrating strengths and unique ways of thinking
Honouring client’s autonomy and interests (e.g., play is always valid!)
Focusing on connection and safety first
Supporting communication needs
Providing strategies for emotion regulation
Looking Ahead
Neurodiversity is about valuing the many different ways people experience the world.
At Better Together Therapy, our psychologists and speech pathologists provide neurodiversity-affirming care for children, teens, and adults. We celebrate strengths, respect individual preferences, and work with individuals and families to create supportive, inclusive environments.
If you or your child are neurodivergent and looking for support (or if you are wondering if you are neurodivergent and would like further assessment), we’d love to work with you! Get in touch with our team to learn more about our psychology and speech services.
