Private Practice Startup Podcast - Episode 357 Summary

Title: How to Create a Neurodivergent Affirming Private Practice
Host: Dr. Kate Campbell & Katie Lemieux
Guests: Patrick Sal, Founder of All Things Private Practice & Host of All Things Private Practice Podcast; Maureen Warbach, Visionary Entrepreneur in the Mental Health Field
Release Date: July 27, 2024

Introduction to the Episode

In Episode 357 of the Private Practice Startup Podcast, hosts Dr. Kate Campbell and Katie Lemieux delve into the essential strategies for creating a neurodivergent-affirming private practice. The episode features returning guests Patrick Sal and Maureen Warbach, both esteemed entrepreneurs in the mental health sector, who share their expertise and personal experiences in fostering inclusive and supportive environments for neurodivergent individuals.

Understanding Neurodivergence in Private Practice

[05:00] Maureen Warbach emphasizes the significance of the episode's timing, noting, “Today is April 10th. We are firmly in the month of autism acceptance month,” highlighting the increasing recognition of neurodiversity in mental health practices.

The Power of Language

One of the foundational elements discussed is the importance of language in affirming neurodivergent identities.

• Maureen Warbach: “Language matters. We need to use identity-first language, such as 'I am an autistic therapist,' rather than 'a therapist with autism.' This shift honors neurodiversity and validates the lived experiences of neurodivergent individuals.”
  [10:00]

• Laura: “Autistic clients want to feel understood without having to explain their challenges in detail. Proper language fosters this immediate sense of understanding and acceptance.”
  [27:50]

Developing Affirming Policies and Procedures

Creating policies that support neurodivergent clients and staff is crucial. The guests discuss practical steps to ensure these policies are both inclusive and effective.

Flexible Scheduling and Accommodations

• Patrick Sal: “During onboarding, we highlight identities and accommodations right away. For example, if a staff member needs to start their day at 2 PM instead of 9 AM, we accommodate that.”
  [08:15]

• Maureen Warbach: “We eliminate rigid schedules, allowing staff to work during their most productive hours. This flexibility reduces stress and enhances job performance.”
  [12:00]

Communication Preferences

• Patrick Sal: “We use communication preference surveys to understand how each team member likes to receive feedback—be it via text, email, or in-person. This ensures everyone feels comfortable and heard.”
  [09:45]

• Maureen Warbach: “Allowing clients to choose how they communicate—whether through video calls with the camera off, texting, or traditional phone calls—can significantly improve their therapy experience.”
  [29:30]

Environment and Sensory Considerations

• Maureen Warbach: “Setting up a sensory-friendly office—like using low lighting and providing fidget tools—helps clients feel more comfortable and present during sessions.”
  [16:50]

Internal Practices for Staff Support

The conversation shifts to internal practices that support neurodivergent staff members, ensuring they thrive within the organization.

Modeling and Advocacy

• Patrick Sal: “Modeling self-advocacy as leaders encourages staff to feel safe in disclosing their neurodivergent identities and requesting necessary accommodations.”
  [34:30]

• Maureen Warbach: “By openly discussing my own needs and preferences, I create a safe space for others to do the same, fostering a supportive and understanding workplace culture.”
  [35:00]

Continuous Improvement and Evolution

Maintaining a neurodivergent-affirming practice is an ongoing process that requires regular reflection and adaptation.

• Patrick Sal: “There’s never an endpoint. Every six months, we review our policies and practices to incorporate new insights and improvements, ensuring we remain inclusive and supportive.”
  [33:55]

• Maureen Warbach: “Constantly evolving our approach helps us stay aligned with the needs of our neurodivergent clients and staff, allowing us to provide the best possible care and support.”
  [33:52]

Personal Stories and Impact

Both guests share personal anecdotes that highlight the transformative impact of adopting neurodivergent-affirming practices.

• Patrick Sal: Reflecting on his own journey, Patrick shares, “Discovering my own neurodivergent identity allowed me to advocate for myself and, in turn, inspire my team to do the same. This has created a more authentic and productive work environment.”
  [17:00]

• Maureen Warbach: Maureen recounts her experience with public rollout of neurodivergent affirming practices, stating, “Modeling acceptance and flexibility in my practice has not only benefited my clients but has also empowered my staff to embrace their true selves, leading to better outcomes for everyone involved.”
  [19:20]

Key Takeaways and Conclusion

The episode concludes with reflections on the importance of embracing neurodiversity within private practices. The guests reiterate that small, intentional changes can make a significant difference in creating an inclusive and supportive environment for both clients and staff.

• Patrick Sal: “Feeling comfortable to self-advocate as a leader creates a ripple effect, fostering a positive and inclusive atmosphere for everyone in the practice.”
  [34:40]

• Maureen Warbach: “Listening to and incorporating feedback from neurodivergent voices is essential. It ensures that practices are truly accessible and affirming.”
  [34:50]

Dr. Kate Campbell and Katie Lemieux thank Patrick and Maureen for their invaluable insights, encouraging listeners to implement these strategies to build neurodivergent-affirming private practices that not only support clients but also empower mental health professionals.

For More Information:
Visit www.PrivatePracticeStartup.com for additional resources, webinars, online courses, and attorney-approved private practice paperwork.