What is Neurodiversity?

​

 All brains and minds are neurodiverse, meaning that each is unique and different, functioning in diverse ways. This term was coined by Australian Sociologist Judy Singer in 1998. Judy believed that neurotypes could be considered a social category much like gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, or socioeconomic class. Singer felt that neurodivergent minds were often oppressed the same way different social categories were, such as women, queer folx, BIPOC communities, etc. There isn't a need for a 'cure' for Autism anymore than there is a need to cure the color of one's skin, a person's gender, sexual orientation, etc. 

​

Neurodiversity affirming is the belief that all neurotypes, including the neurodivergent (brains that diverge from the norm/neurotypical including Autism, OCD, ADHD, etc.) have value. This means that Autistic brains are not broken and do not need to be 'fixed'. Autism is a unique way of existing in and experiencing the world. People with autism often have enhanced sensory experiences which is both a strength and a weakness. Autistic brains show hypersensitivity in the areas of the brain that process sensory information They also demonstrate a heightened response to sensory stimulus in the areas of the brain that process emotion; the amygdala, the hippocampus, and the prefrontal cortex. 

​

This is why the Autistic Rights Movement has taken a strong stand against ABA Therapy. Heartstone Guidance Center stands with the Autistic Rights Movement and is opposed to all forms of ABA therapy. You will find a list of articles and resources on the issues with and alternatives to ABA therapy further down this page. There is a growing number of Autistic voices in the Autistic Rights Movement claiming that ABA therapy is unethical and abusive and similar to conversion therapy in that it attempts to extinguish autistic traits. Unfortunately, ABA is estimated to be a $17 billion-dollar-a-year industry, giving it the money and resources to drown out Autistic voices. There is however a growing body of research that suggests ABA is ineffective in the long run and can lead to mental health issues including PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Our Autistic therapists, myself included have a zero-tolerance policy towards ABA therapy. 

​

Autism, also known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects how people communicate, interact with others, and process sensory information. It is a diverse condition that affects each person differently, and it is often misunderstood and stigmatized. However, it is important to recognize that autism is not a disorder or a disease, but rather a different way of perceiving and experiencing the world.

One of the biggest misconceptions about autism is that it is a mental illness that needs to be cured. However, this is not the case. Autism is a type of neurodivergency meaning it is a natural variation in the human brain. Just as there is diversity in body types, skin colors, and personalities, there is also diversity in the way brains function.

People with autism often have unique strengths and abilities. They may excel in areas such as art, music, math, and science. Many people with autism have exceptional memories and are able to focus intensely on a specific task or interest. They may also have a strong sense of fairness and justice and may be very empathetic and compassionate towards others.

It is important to recognize and celebrate the strengths and differences of people with autism, rather than trying to fit them into a neurotypical mold. Neurodiversity should be seen as a positive aspect of society, and people with autism should be treated with respect, understanding, and acceptance.

There is still a long way to go in terms of acceptance and understanding of autism, but we can all do our part by educating ourselves and being more inclusive and supportive of those with autism. Let's embrace neurodiversity and recognize that autism is not a disorder, but rather a unique and valuable part of the human experience.