It’s a question I’m sometimes asked when I’m brought in to support around Autism and ADHD. Why am I not covering other areas of neurodivergence?
It’s a fair question, here’s my take on it.
Imagine this. You’ve just bought a house. It’s full of potential, but it’s a project.
The roof is leaking, the drains are overflowing, the electrics are temperamental and the kitchen… well, it needs gutting.
You’re handy with a paintbrush. But you’re no plumber, and you’re definitely not about to start rewiring the place. So where do you start? First up, those overflowing drains.
Introducing ‘Drains Are Our Thing’
They arrive, assess the situation, explain the problem clearly, quote fairly and complete the job to a high standard.
You thank them sincerely, and then ask ‘but what about the roof?’
Huh? Who would say that?
Your draining experts are great. They’re friendly, focused and good at what they do. You’d recommend them in a heartbeat, for drains.
But they don’t fix roofs. That’s not their job’ and they’d never claim it was.
Neuro-inclusion is not a one-trade job
Building a workplace or community that truly works for neurodivergent people is a collaborative project. Just like renovating a house, it takes a whole team. Each professional brings different tools, knowledge and experience to the work. No one person can do it all and nor should they try.
Neurodiversity is my passion but within that, my specialism is in Autism, ADHD and AuDHD. I bring in-depth expertise, professional training in psychotherapy and coaching and my lived experience in this space.
That doesn’t mean I deny or ignore the existence of other neurodivergences like Dyslexia, Dyspraxia or Tourettes.
Quite the opposite. I believe firmly in creating cultures fit for all humans, across all neurodivergencies and all areas of marginalisation.
Just like I’m sure your drainage expert wants you to live in a house with safe electrics and a working roof, I want to be part of a system where each piece is looked after by someone who has a depth of experience in their subject matter.
Neurodiversity Inclusion is a collaborative effort
It requires knowing when to step up and when to refer to those with different expertise.
It’s time we stop expecting one person to fix the whole house.
Teamwork and collaboration build sustainable inclusion cultures that work for all people and for society.
If you’re looking to strengthen your Neuro-inclusion programme with specialist insight on Autism, ADHD or AuDHD, I’d love to talk with you. Reach me on email hello@kathywolstenholme.uk