Strengths-Based Neurodiversity Approach

A Strengths-Based Approach to Neurodiversity

A 4-pronged approach could help neurodiverse populations thrive.

KEY POINTS

  • Most approaches to ADHD, autism, and related conditions still operate from a medical, deficits-based model.

  • The neurodiversity movement, by contrast, favors a strengths-based model.

  • A recently proposed 4-pronged approach could help identify and nurture the strengths of neurodiverse individuals.Most approaches to ADHD, autism, and related conditions still operate from a medical, deficits-based model.

  • The neurodiversity movement, by contrast, favors a strengths-based model.

  • A recently proposed 4-pronged approach could help identify and nurture the strengths of neurodiverse individuals.

Our current thinking about mental health is still disproportionately influenced by what's known as the medical model, which conceptualizes cognitive differences in terms of disability or disease. Terms like autism spectrum disorder (often called simply autism or abbreviated to ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), for example, derive from a disability-focused view. In many ways, our current thinking still focuses primarily on deficits and those behaviors and cognitions that people with autism or ADHD cannot perform as well as individuals without such a diagnosis.


Vint Hill Educational Services offers subject-based tutoring in math, science, reading, writing, English, history, and foreign language. Most of our math tutors can teach Pre-Algebra up through Calculus. Our tutors take subject-specific tests before being hired, so we can guarantee they know the content.  

We don't just assign any available tutor; we actually handpick the best tutor for your child. Before accepting the tutor, parents receive a tutor profile to review and approve. The tutor matching process consists of the following: subject area knowledge, tutor education, tutor personality, tutor background, student weaknesses, student schedule, and location preference (in-office, in-home, or public library). 

Each session is one hour in length and one-to-one for individualized support. Parents receive access to our online Teachworks tutoring system and will be able to review tutor session notes, receive session email reminders, and keep track of session hours used and hours remaining. 

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