Autism & Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (AuDHD)

Autism + attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (AuDHD) is a unique neurotype in which you have both Autism + ADHD. This combined neurotype comes with a unique blend of traits from both neurotypes. 

As an Autistic person, you may experience social & communication differences, special interests, & a neuroceptive need for routine & predictability. On the other hand, as an ADHD'er, you may experience internal or external hyperactivity, impulsivity, hyperfixations, a neuroceptive need for novelty & variety, increased need for movement, an interest-driven attentional focus, & rejection sensitivity dysphoria.

Overlapping AuDHD traits include differences in time perception, stimming, sensory differences, & executive functioning differences. In addition, you may experience competing needs. For example, you may need structure & routine, but you struggle maintaining those routines. Or you may get very distressed when plans suddenly change, but you struggle to arrive on time yourself. As AuDHD'ers, you may experience a heightened version of shared traits from Autism + ADHD, such as a heightened attention to detail, leading to heightened sensory differences. 

In neuro-affirming & non-pathologizing therapy, the focus is on recognizing & validating neurodivergent identities, strengths, & experiences; this is on contrast to the pathology paradigm, which treats neurodivergent identities & experiences as problems to be "fixed" or changed to fit neurotypical standards. This therapy approach embraces the concept of neurodiversity, viewing differences in neurotype as normal variations of the human experience. Rather than trying to normalize or mask neurodivergent traits or push neuronormative standards, it focuses on empowering neurodivergent folks to live fulfilling lives on your own terms. 

The 5 key principles of neuro-affirming therapy are that it is strengths-based (rather than deficit-based), is non-pathologizing, validates neurodivergent identity, focuses on personal autonomy, & is contextualized— meaning that it recognizes & addresses the broader social context, including acknowledging the impact that societal expectations & norms have on neurodivergent individuals.

Compared to a neuro-affirming & non-pathologizing therapeutic approach, traditional therapy differs in that it often focuses on "fixing" or changing neurodivergent behaviors or traits, with the intent of increasing conformity with neurotypical standards. In contrast, the goal of neuro-affirming therapy is to improve self-acceptance, well-being, & empowerment— not to get rid of your traits or make your behavior more "normal" according to neuronormative standards. 

The primary aim of neuro-affirming therapy is to validate your neurodivergent identity & respect your unique needs. As a result, neurodivergent folks (for example, AuDHD folks) can experience less feelings of shame or stigma related to your neurodivergence. You can also improve self-esteem & confidence by focusing on your strengths & celebrating your neurodivergent identity. Overall, there are many benefits of neuro-affirming therapy, such as improved mental health, increased self-esteem, greater autonomy, & improved coping ability.

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