An Experience Sensitive Approach to Care with and for Autistic Children and Young People in Clinical Services
McGreevy, Quinn, Law, Botha, Evans, Rose, Moyse, Boyens, Matejko and Pavlopoulou (2023)
Support schemes for autistic children and young people in clinical services are often rooted in neuro-normative and behaviourist approaches. These medicalised models can diminish individuality, limit self-expression, and overlook the harmful effects of a non-inclusive environment on wellbeing. This article advocates for a shift toward a humanistic, lifeworld-led model of care, as outlined by Todres et al., which encourages mental health professionals to incorporate eight core dimensions of care into everyday practice. By fostering neuro-inclusivity, practitioners can promote respect, personal agency, and collaborative, person-centred decision-making. The authors argue that true progress requires a systemic shift toward neurodiversity-affirming support across clinical, educational, and research settings to improve long-term mental health outcomes for autistic individuals.
