The Testing Psychologist Podcast
466. Neurodiversity-Affirming Assessment w/ Dr. Matt Zakreski
Sep 23, 2024
Join Dr. Matt Zakreski, an expert in neurodiversity-affirming assessment, as he discusses essential practices to better support neurodivergent individuals. He breaks down key definitions and statistics, emphasizing that cognitive differences should be seen as variations rather than deficits. Dr. Zakreski shares strategies for creating inclusive environments in testing, focusing on adaptability in both assessments and therapy. He advocates for a continual learning approach, urging professionals to embrace flexibility and open communication in their practices.
49:29
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Quick takeaways
- Neurodiversity-affirming assessment practices prioritize recognizing brain variations over behavioral deficits, fostering a positive and inclusive understanding of neurodivergent individuals.
- Adapting testing environments to accommodate neurodivergent needs, such as allowing movement and using innovative communication methods, can significantly improve assessment outcomes.
Deep dives
Understanding Neurodivergence
Neurodivergence refers to individuals with brains that process information in fundamentally different ways compared to the neurotypical population. This includes conditions like ADHD, dyslexia, autism, and OCD, which affect approximately one in five children in the U.S. Distinguishing neurodivergent traits from deficits is crucial for reframing the conversation around these differences. The importance lies in understanding that these differences stem from legitimate brain variations rather than behavioral shortcomings, allowing for a more compassionate and affirming approach to support.
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