— Neurodiversity is an essential form of human diversity. The idea that there is one “normal” or “healthy” type of brain or mind or one “right” style of neurocognitive functioning, is no more valid than the idea that there is one “normal” or “right” gender, race or culture. The classification of neurodivergence (e.g. autism, ADHD, dyslexia, bipolarity) as medical/psychiatric pathology has no valid scientific basis , and instead reflects cultural prejudice and oppresses those labeled as such. The social dynamics around neurodiversity are similar to the dynamics that manifest around other forms of human diversity. These dynamics include unequal distribution of social power; conversely, when embraced, diversity can act as a source of creative potential. Psychotherapists who integrate the neurodiversity paradigm into their work do so by refusing to label neurodivergence as intrinsically pathological.
Instead of attempting to “cure” autistic or bipolar clients, for instance, these therapists seek to help autistic or bipolar people thrive as autistic or bipolar people, finding ways of living that are more in harmony with their natural neurological dispositions, and helping them to heal from internalized oppression. — says Nick Walker
Valeria interviews Angelica Weeks, aka Angela — She is a 33-year-old mental health clinician who has been working in the field for almost three years now. She is a private practicing psychotherapist, and she also works part-time for a local community college — Edmonds College — as an Associate Faculty in their Family Life Education Department (FLED).
Angela is also a mother to three children. She is also very open about having Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder w/Combined Presentation; and, that herself and her family are also Neurodiverse. Angela’s three children are all autistic. It is highly suspected that her husband is autistic, as well. Angela openly shares this information with her clients, as this tends to help them feel more at ease to experience representation and to feel understood. She works primarily with those who identify as Neurodiverse; and, trauma survivors. Angela has also worked with a variety of age groups, from 4 up to 65 year olds. Presently, she has children, adolescents, and adults on her caseload. She enjoys drawing and coloring, reading, playing with her children, going on adventures and exploring the area she live in, shopping, baking, and spending time with friends and family.
To learn more about Angela Weeks and her work, please visit: angelica-weeks.clientsecure.me
— This podcast is a quest for well-being, a quest for a meaningful life through the exploration of fundamental truths, enlightening ideas, insights on physical, mental, and spiritual health. The inspiration is Love. The aspiration is to awaken new ways of thinking that can lead us to a new way of being, being well.
