Neuro-affirming forms of play therapy acknowledge and respect the neurodiversity of each child, offering a compassionate and inclusive approach to mental health support. By focusing on the strengths and individual needs of neurodivergent children, these forms of therapy not only promote healing and growth but also foster a sense of acceptance and belonging. Whether through the developmental engagement of DIR/Floortime, the neuro-affirming framework of AutPlay, or the relational and neurodevelopmental focus of Neurofilial Therapy, neuro-affirming approaches provide a solid foundation for children to understand themselves and navigate the world around them. As research and practice in this area continue to evolve, the potential for positive impact on neurodivergent children and their families is immense.
Therapy
Certificate
1. What Is Neuro-affirming Play Therapy?
Neuro-affirming forms of play therapy are those approaches that recognize and respect the neurological diversity of each child. It is based on the understanding that different brains process information and emotions in diverse ways. No one form of therapy is going to be perfectly neuro-affirming as the advocacy for neurodiversity is ongoing in its development. Neuro-affirming practices emphasize the strengths and individuality of neurodivergent children, rather than focusing on deficits or attempting to 'normalize' their behavior. The goal is to support the child in a way that is aligned with their intrinsic way of being, promoting self-understanding, confidence, and growth - instead of teaching the child neurotypical skills or asking them to mask their neurodivergence.
2. Forms of Neuro-affirming Play Therapy
a. DIR/Floortime
Developed by Dr. Stanley Greenspan, the DIR/Floortime model focuses on "Developmental, Individual differences, Relationship-based" therapy. It is a form of play therapy that encourages adults to enter a child's world through play, meeting them at their developmental level and building upon their strengths. It's particularly effective for autistic children and children with neurodevelopmental differences, as it respects their sensory sensitivities and individual ways of interacting with the world.
b. AutPlay
AutPlay® Therapy was developed by Dr. Robert Jason Grant as a neurodiversity affirming framework for implementing play therapy, designed to help child and play therapists address the mental health needs of neurodivergent children ages 3-18 , including autistic and ADHD children, those with anxiety, sensory differences, learning differences, and developmental and physical disabilities.
c. Neurofilial Therapy
Neurofilial Therapy is an approach that integrates modern principles of neuroscience with well-established traditions of filial and dyadic therapy, with particular attention to the parent-child relationship. It emphasizes understanding the child’s neurological development and how it impacts behavior, emotions, and parent-child interactions. The therapy aims to improve these interactions by educating parents on neurodevelopmental strategies, enhancing attachment, and fostering better communication and emotional regulation in children.