What is Neurodiversity?

Neurodiversity refers to the diversity of human nervous systems. The nervous system is often described as the body's command centre and is made up of the brain, spinal cord and nerves.

The neurodiversity paradigm stands in opposition to the deficit / disorder framework which forms the foundation for the majority of the research and treatment of neurodivergent people over the past century. It views neurodivergences as simply different ways of being human - "different not less".

In the words of Nick Walker, a prominent autistic writer and educator:

1.) Neurodiversity is a natural and valuable form of human diversity.

2.) The idea that there is one “normal” or “healthy” type of brain or mind, or one “right” style of neurocognitive functioning, is a culturally constructed fiction, no more valid (and no more conducive to a healthy society or to the overall well-being of humanity) than the idea that there is one “normal” or “right” ethnicity, gender, or culture.

3.) The social dynamics that manifest in regard to neurodiversity are similar to the social dynamics that manifest in regard to other forms of human diversity (e.g., diversity of ethnicity, gender, or culture). These dynamics include the dynamics of social power inequalities, and also the dynamics by which diversity, when embraced, acts as a source of creative potential.

https://neuroqueer.com/neurodiversity-terms-and-definitions/

What does it mean to be Neurodivergent?

A neurodivergent person's nervous system "diverges" - or differs significantly - from societal norms. We can be born neurodivergent (sometimes called innate neurodivergence) or we can acquire it later on.

As neurodivergent people have a whole different nervous system this means the messages being sent throughout the "bodymind" need to be understood and attended to on their own terms. The messages or signals telling us, for example, to move, breathe and respond will be different and distinctive from neurotypical people. This affects our thoughts, feelings, memory, senses, sleep, digestion and all our bodily processes including healing and aging.

Neurodivergent people are neurominority groups and this often means our needs are overlooked in favour of the norms and ways of being which work well for and are most comfortable or familiar to the "neuromajority".

"Coming out" as Neurodivergent

My professional identity has been a key area of exploration and challenge for me in recent years. I have been concerned about whether the dominant social and cultural narratives would jeopardise my career if I “unmasked” professionally. I am insightful and highly empathic. I have consistently received positive feedback and people have chosen to work with me in for long and in depth therapeutic processes.

The game changer for me was in recognising that I haven’t been competent in my work "despite" my neurodivergence or because I have been “passing” as neurotypical (though that may be how an observer could see it). My neurodivergence is inseparable from my competency ability. Indeed, it may be that some of the very things which are valuable in my work would not be present were it not for my neurodivergence.

Who knows?! I'm certainly not for everyone, yet it has been such a relief to welcome in the parts of me which I've hidden away for so long. It's been amazing to realise I'm not broken or "abnormal". As well as to finally embrace the weirdness (in the best way). I have lots of genuine self compassion and I believe that fizzes out of me and affects others.

What does this mean for Circles?

You may be reading this as a neurodivergent person yourself. I am committed to doing all I can to ensure you feel welcome and comfortable in all the Circles I facilitate. I can also speak with you about any accommodations you may need in advance.

One of my Circles is an exclusively Autistic space (self identification is very welcome) and the others are all neurodiverse spaces. Neurodiverse is all of us together, all types of nervous systems and "bodymind" connections. In truth, most spaces are neurodiverse ... the difference here is probably that I'm naming it and thereby inviting curiosity and genuine equality.

A note to my non-neurodivergent / neurotypical guests, please know that you are welcome and prized within my Circles. I don't actually believe anyone is "typical" or that "majority" means homogeneity.

We can all belong together and this to me would be a true manifestation of the potential of Circles to truly and meaningfully impact our communities and be part of a significant cultural shift .