The landscape of mental health care is evolving, recognising that neurodivergent individuals—those with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other neurological variations—have unique needs and strengths. Traditional therapeutic approaches often pathologise these differences, but a growing movement advocates for neurodiversity-affirming practices that honour and support diverse cognitive profiles.
Neurodiversity-affirming therapy is a paradigm shift that moves away from deficit-based models and instead views neurodivergent traits as natural variations of human diversity. This approach emphasises collaboration, respect, and individualised support, aiming to empower clients rather than attempting to “normalise” them.
Key Books Shaping Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapy
1. Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapy: What Every Mental Health Provider Needs to Know by Amy Marschall
This comprehensive guide offers practical strategies, evidence-based techniques, and a deep understanding of neurodiversity. It equips therapists with tools to build stronger relationships, improve their understanding, and make a positive difference in the lives of neurodivergent clients.
2. Neurodiversity-Affirming Psychotherapy: Clinical Pathways to Autistic Mental Health by Ruth Strunz
Emphasising the importance of centering the neurodivergent client’s sensory experience within the therapeutic alliance, this book provides practical guidance on how to do so. It is essential for clinicians seeking to provide neurodiversity-affirming psychotherapy and support their clients in self-advocating around their sensory processing needs.
3. A Therapist’s Guide to Neurodiversity Affirming Practice with Children and Young People by Raelene Dundon
In this honest and practical guide, autistic therapist Raelene Dundon explores and demystifies how neurodiversity-affirming principles can be easily applied to therapeutic practice. The book offers insights into creating inclusive environments for neurodivergent children and young people.
4. The Autistic Survival Guide to Therapy by Steph Jones
Steph Jones, an autistic therapist and former journalist, offers a candid, witty, and insightful exploration into therapy from the perspective of a late-diagnosed autistic individual. Drawing from her professional and lived experiences, as well as consulting therapists from across the world and tapping into the autistic community, Jones creates a comprehensive guide for navigating therapy as an autistic person.
The book addresses the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in therapeutic settings, including misunderstandings, misdiagnoses, and the need for therapists to adapt their approaches to be more inclusive and affirming. Jones provides practical advice on recognising “red flags” in therapists, setting appropriate boundaries, and finding confidence in the therapeutic process.
Additionally, the book includes a context guide to help therapists understand how undiagnosed or diagnosed autism may present itself during therapy sessions, fostering a more supportive and effective therapeutic environment
The Importance of Sensory Considerations
Neurodivergent individuals often experience heightened or diminished sensory sensitivities. Therapists are encouraged to understand and accommodate these sensory needs to create a comfortable and effective therapeutic environment. This may involve adjusting lighting, noise levels, and seating arrangements to minimise discomfort and promote engagement.
Building Collaborative Therapeutic Relationships
A central tenet of neurodiversity-affirming therapy is collaboration. Therapists are urged to work alongside clients, valuing their input and expertise about their own experiences. This partnership fosters trust and empowers clients to take an active role in their therapeutic journey.
Training and Resources for Therapists
For therapists seeking to deepen their understanding and skills in neurodiversity-affirming practices, various training programs and resources are available. These include workshops, online courses, and peer support groups that focus on topics such as sensory processing, communication strategies, and inclusive therapeutic techniques.
Conclusion
Embracing neurodiversity in therapy not only enhances the effectiveness of treatment but also affirms the dignity and worth of neurodivergent individuals. By adopting neurodiversity-affirming practices, therapists can contribute to a more inclusive and compassionate mental health care system that recognises and celebrates cognitive diversity.
Please see this link for a book summary of The Autistic Survival Guide to Therapy by Steph Jones.
References
Jones, S. (2024). The Autistic Survival Guide to Therapy. Jessica Kingsley Publishers.
Marschall, A. (2025). Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapy: What Every Mental Health Provider Needs to Know. Norton & Company.
Strunz, R. (2024). Neurodiversity-Affirming Psychotherapy: Clinical Pathways to Autistic Mental Health. Routledge.
Dundon, R. (2023). A Therapist’s Guide to Neurodiversity Affirming Practice with Children and Young People. Jessica Kingsley Publishers.
Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapy: What Every Mental Health Provider Needs to Know. (2025).
Neurodiversity-Affirming Psychotherapy: Clinical Pathways to Autistic Mental Health. (2024).
A Therapist’s Guide to Neurodiversity Affirming Practice with Children and Young People. (2023).