Neurodiversity

What is the Neurodiversity Movement?

The neurodiversity movement is an empowering, transformative approach to understanding and celebrating the natural variations in human brains and minds. At its core, the movement acknowledges that neurological differences — such as those related to autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other cognitive variations — are a part of human diversity. 

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Rather than seeing neurodivergent individuals as needing to be “cured,” the neurodiversity movement emphasizes the importance of acceptance, inclusion, and support. It advocates for the idea that each person, regardless of how their brain functions, brings unique strengths, talents, and perspectives that contribute to the richness of society.

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Key Principles of the Neurodiversity Movement:

1. Celebrating Neurological Diversity: Neurodiversity is rooted in the understanding that people have a wide range of cognitive styles and abilities. These differences are not deficits but are part of the natural spectrum of human variation. The movement encourages a shift in perception, from seeing neurodivergent individuals as "broken" or "less than" to recognizing them as valuable, unique members of society.

2. Strengths-Based Approach: Neurodivergent individuals often have unique abilities and perspectives that can be seen as strengths. For example, people with autism might have exceptional attention to detail, while individuals with ADHD may bring creativity and high energy to problem-solving. The neurodiversity movement encourages the focus on these strengths and contributions, fostering environments where people can use their abilities to their advantage.

3. Inclusivity in Society: The neurodiversity movement pushes for inclusion and accessibility in all areas of life. This includes schools that accommodate different learning styles, workplaces that embrace diverse cognitive abilities, and communities that foster social acceptance and understanding. The movement works to dismantle the systemic barriers that prevent neurodivergent individuals from fully participating in society.

4. Self-Advocacy and Empowerment: One of the central tenets of the neurodiversity movement is the belief in self-advocacy. Neurodivergent individuals are encouraged to advocate for their own needs, rights, and desires, empowering them to speak up about their experiences and shape their futures. This empowerment leads to greater autonomy and allows individuals to live authentically, without feeling the need to “mask” or hide their differences.

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Why the Neurodiversity Movement Matters

The neurodiversity movement has brought about a profound shift in how we think about disability, difference, and belonging. It challenges the traditional medical model, which tends to view neurological differences as something to be fixed, and instead promotes a social model that emphasizes equality, acceptance, and celebration.

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By embracing neurodiversity, we move closer to a world where individuals of all neurotypes — whether neurotypical or neurodivergent — can live and work together in a society that values everyone for who they are, not in spite of it.

Neurodiversity is not just about a diagnosis or label. It’s about humanity, inclusion, and the idea that everyone deserves a space to thrive, regardless of how their brain works.

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What is Neuro-Collective's Role?

As a neurodivergent psychotherapist and mother to neurodivergent children, Neuro-Collective's founder, Meghan Maynard, directly witnessed the challenges that neurodivergent children, teens, and young adults faced in their everyday activities. Social systems, like recreation programs, schools, health, and mental healthcare, are designed for the masses. This means that the unique needs of neurodivergent families are often overlooked.  

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That's where we come in. We know that neurodivergent families need places and spaces that foster inclusion and acceptance. We know that parents and caregivers need support. We know how powerful it is to connect with someone who understands the challenges associated with caregiving in a world that doesn't seem to be designed for your family. Neuro-Collective aims to meet the needs of neurodivergent families through inclusive and accepting recreation opportunities, parent/caregiver support groups, respite care opportunities, and advocacy and training for the broader community. 

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At Neuro-Collective the voices of neurodivergent individuals guide our practice. Guided by the sentiment, "nothing about us, without us", Neuro-Collective strives to meet the needs of neurodivergent families in the most meaningful ways-- starting with community, inclusion, and support.