The Role of Transdisciplinarity in Neurodiversity-Affirming Care

Abstract: As understanding of neurodiversity evolves, so must the approaches we use to support neurodivergent individuals. Traditional, siloed models of care often fall short in addressing the nuanced, intersecting needs of this population. This presentation highlights the transformative potential of transdisciplinary collaboration, emphasizing the need to integrate perspectives from behavioral analysis, medicine, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, education, and lived experience. Attendees will explore how transdisciplinary approaches foster holistic, person-centered, and neurodiversity-affirming care by shifting away from deficit-based paradigms toward strengths-based, autonomy-supportive models. The discussion will highlight practical strategies for breaking down barriers between disciplines, enhancing collaborative communication to develop care plans that prioritize the well-being, self-determination, and quality of life. This session invites clinicians, educators, and community stakeholders to move beyond interdisciplinary cooperation and toward true transdisciplinarity and integrated care, grounded in mutual learning, shared goals, and the active involvement of neurodivergent individuals in shaping their own care.

Learning Objectives:

1. Participants will differentiate transdisciplinarity, multidisciplinary, and interdisciplinary approaches in health care

2. Participants will identify key strategies for fostering effective collaboration across disciplines, including the integration of lived experience in care planning and delivery.

3. Participants will apply principles of neurodiversity-affirming care to design support plans that prioritize autonomy, strengths, and holistic well-being for neurodivergent individuals