Working with Neurodiversity: The Voice in Neurodiversity-Affirmative Music Therapy and other Music-based Work

The Neurodiversity Paradigm challenges the concept of autism, and related neurological differences such as ADHD and dyspraxia, as disorders or deficits, instead viewing neurodiversity (neurological diversity) as a natural and normal part of human diversity. Under the neurodiversity paradigm, neurotype (e.g. neurotypical, autistic etc.) is considered as an aspect of identity, in the same way as gender or sexuality, and neurodivergent forms of behaviour, communication and culture are valued in the same way as neurotypical forms of behaviour, communication and culture. In recent years, the music therapy profession has begun to consider the application of the neurodiversity paradigm to music therapy practice, in particular In relation to autism, and an increasing amount of literature embracing this perspective has been published.

This lecture, delivered from a lived experience perspective, will begin with an explanation of the key concepts around neurodiversity, the neurodiversity paradigm, and some prominent neurodiversity-informed theories, including a brief exploration of autistic communication and culture. We will look at ways to work musically from a neurodiversity-affirmative perspective, whether therapeutically or within other forms of music-based work or teaching practice. Particular consideration will be given to the use of the voice, both in terms of responding to the neurodivergent individual’s particular ways of using language, song and vocal sounds, and in terms of using one’s own voice (whether you identify as neurotypical or neurodivergent), and other forms of music, to communicate respectfully and effectively with neurodivergent people. I will speak about my own music therapy work with autistic people, which takes a collaborative approach with the client as much as possible, giving examples of how I use my voice and other forms of musical response in my therapeutic work.