Autism Acceptance Month: Honoring Neurodiversity in the Therapy Space
Written by Kelsey Someliana-Lauer, Therapy Practice Solutions Virtual Assistant Autism Acceptance Month , observed annually in April, emerged as a grassroots movement to promote understanding and celebration of autism as a natural aspect of human diversity. Originally known as Autism Awareness Month, the shift to "Autism Acceptance" reflects a broader societal recognition of the importance of embracing and supporting neurodivergent individuals. Led by autistic self-advocates and their allies, the movement aims to challenge stereotypes, combat stigma, and advocate for the rights and inclusion of autistic individuals worldwide. Unfortunately, neurodivergence has not always been accepted, let alone celebrated. In the past , conditions such as ADHD, autism, and learning differences were frequently misunderstood and stigmatized, leading to harmful practices and societal marginalization of neurodivergent individuals. ADHD, for example, was often perceived as a behavioral problem r