Study's full title: Neurodiversity-Affirming Practice – Exploring the Knowledge and Perspectives of Australian Allied Health Practitioners

University Affiliation: The University of Melbourne

Ethics Approval/Reference Number: Project ID Number 28997

Principal Researcher: Ms Stephanie Weir

Additional Reseracher: Dr Caitlin McDowell, Dr Free Coulston, Dr Hannah Stark, Ms Amy Bonsor, Ms Melissa Vallence, Ms Amy Fitzpatrick

Supervisor(s): N/A

Purpose of study: Understanding where to seek information and how to implement evidence-based practice that is neurodiversity-affirming is currently presenting a significant challenge for allied health professions in Australia. There are few neurodiversity-affirming practices that are supported by an empirical evidence base, and so there is little guidance from the research literature to support clinicians to implement neurodiversity-affirming practices in their work. As such, much of the conversation around neurodiversity-affirming practice is currently happening online via social media, and through informal peer-support networks, and many workplaces may not be aligned with or support practitioners in implementing a neurodiversity-affirming approach to assessment and intervention. Thus, this project aims to explore and describe how Australian speech pathologists, physiotherapists, and occupational therapists currently conceptualise and define neurodiversity-affirming practice, where they are accessing practice guidance, and what they believe are the factors that enable or prevent implementation of neurodiversity-affirming practice in their work.

Participation Criteria: Occupational therapists currently practicing in Australia.

Survey Link: https://q.surveys.unimelb.edu.au/jfe/form/SV_4ORF7hiQp1vphc2

Contact Details: Dr. Caitlin McDowell, Senior Lecturer Caitlin.mcdowell@unimelb.edu.au

End date for survey:  TBC