At OTW we believe NDA practise includes a more ethical and aware approach to supporting autistic (and other neuro-diverse) clients.

1. First and foremost, a neurodiversity-affirming perspective necessitates that occupational therapists respect their clients as having a unique style of neurological processing that leads to phenomenological differences in sensing and operating in their environment. As a result, goals and interventions do not seek to reduce, alter, or replace behaviours simply because they are considered “autistic” and instead these behaviours are respected as central to the client’s way of being and meaningfulness as it is personally defined.
2. Our Therapists must listen to and consult with neurodivergent individuals to determine the meaning of their behaviours and occupations. If it is not possible to ask the client directly about their experience, identify sources from other members of the community to provide insight into the possible meaning of a particular way of being or occupation.
3. Behaviours are framed as being natural and valid responses to a specific situation given the skills, abilities, and preferences of the individual.
4. Goals and interventions prioritize emotional well-being and positive engagement over compliance in therapy sessions. A therapeutic alliance is formed in working toward therapy goals based on client-driven enjoyment and meaningfulness.
5. Autistic and other neuro-divergent individuals have the right to physically engage with a task, or move their bodies during a session, to the extent that they see fit.
6. Autistic and other neuro divergent individuals should be guaranteed social agency and the right to socially engage in ways and to the extent that it is comfortable for them.
7. All forms of communication, both verbal and non-verbal, are valid and should be encouraged and honoured.
8. Therapists must be reflexive and acknowledge how their own understanding of behavioural norms aligns or differs from our clients’ ways of being