Neurodiversity-Affirming Speech Therapy and Melospeech - It's About Respect! (0.17 CA PDH)
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Neuroaffirming care is an approach to healthcare and support services that recognizes, respects, and integrates the diverse neurological makeups of individuals, including those who are neurodivergent—such as people with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, Tourette's syndrome, and other neurological conditions. This care model is grounded in the principles of the neurodiversity movement, which advocates for understanding and appreciating neurological differences in the same way we do cultural, racial, or linguistic diversity.
Why Neuroaffirming Care Matters
1. Promotes Understanding and Acceptance: It challenges societal norms that view neurodivergence as a deficit or disorder that needs to be "fixed." Instead, it promotes understanding and acceptance of neurodivergence as a natural variation within the human species.
2. Improves Healthcare Experiences: Many neurodivergent individuals have negative experiences with healthcare systems that don't accommodate their needs. Neuroaffirming care can significantly improve their access to and quality of care, leading to better health outcomes.
3. Empowers Individuals: By acknowledging and valuing their unique perspectives, neuroaffirming care empowers neurodivergent individuals to participate more fully in their care decisions and in society. It supports their autonomy and self-determination.
4. Encourages Inclusive Research and Practices: It drives the development of research, policies, and practices that consider the full range of human neurological diversity. This leads to more inclusive and effective healthcare solutions.
5. Fosters a More Compassionate Society: By advocating for the acceptance and accommodation of all forms of neurodiversity, neuroaffirming care contributes to building a more compassionate, inclusive, and equitable society.
Neuroaffirming care is not just a set of practices but a paradigm shift in how we understand and support neurological diversity. It matters because it directly impacts the well-being, dignity, and rights of neurodivergent individuals. By embracing neuroaffirming care, healthcare providers, educators, and communities can make significant strides toward a world where every person is valued for their unique contributions, leading to a healthier, more inclusive society and this is our goal at Melospeech Inc.
Your Instructor
Dr. Givona Sandiford, CCC-SLP, is a licensed and nationally certified speech-language pathologist with nearly 20 years of experience across a variety of settings, including private practices, schools, hospitals, telepractice, outpatient clinics, home health, and skilled nursing facilities. Holding a PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences with an emphasis in child language development, Dr. Sandiford specializes in working with individuals with unique communication needs, including those with diverse neurological profiles, across a wide age range.
With a deep commitment to inclusive care, Dr. Sandiford approaches speech therapy by tailoring methods to each individual’s strengths, emphasizing their potential and unique ways of engaging with the world. She has served as an adjunct faculty member, teaching both undergraduate and graduate students in Communication Sciences and Disorders.
As the founder of Melospeech, Inc., Dr. Sandiford has developed innovative, adaptable speech therapy options that leverage technology to enhance care delivery. Her focus is on creating an environment where all individuals can thrive, ensuring therapy options meet the diverse needs of those she serves.
Through her courses, Dr. Sandiford empowers future professionals with evidence-based practices, clinical insights, and a compassionate approach to meeting the needs of individuals with a broad range of communication styles.
Course Curriculum
Frequently Asked Questions
Neuroaffirming care is not just a set of practices but a paradigm shift in how we understand and support neurological diversity. It matters because it directly impacts the well-being, dignity, and rights of neurodivergent individuals. By embracing neuroaffirming care, healthcare providers, educators, and communities can make significant strides toward a world where every person is valued for their unique contributions, leading to a healthier, more inclusive society.