At Enable Me Occupational Therapy we use the following therapeutic approaches as part of our every-day practice:

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NEURO-AFFIRMING PRACTICES

Neuro-affirming practice involves recognising and honouring the diverse ways in which a persons' brain functions and process information.

 

It emphasises the importance of understanding and respecting the unique neurological differences, strengths, interests, preferences, and support needs of each person.

 

This approach involves adapting strategies and interventions to meet the specific needs of the person, promoting a sense of validation, acceptance, and empowerment. 

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It is our goal to embrace everyone's uniqueness and strengths, and provide our client's with the skills, tools, and strategies to enable improved participation at home, school or work, and  play or social environments.

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We do not believe in:

• promoting masking, loss of autonomy, or loss of personal agency

• eliminating stimming behaviours, or

• setting goals that seek to 'cure' neurodivergent behaviours

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TRAUMA-INFORMED CARE

Trauma-informed care is based on the understanding that:

• people may have experienced trauma in their lives

• trauma may be a factor for people in distress

• the impact of trauma may be life-long and may impact the person, their relationships and their emotions.

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We aim to practice with a deep understanding of the impact that trauma can have on a person's physical, emotional, social, and mental well-being. 

 

We prioritise creating safe and supportive environments, that are built on trust and empowerment, and are committed to helping our clients work towards healing and growth through participation in everyday activities.

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POLYVAGAL THEORY

Polyvagal Theory, developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, explores the role of the vagus nerve in regulating our physiological and emotional responses.

 

The theory suggests that the autonomic nervous system is not just a two-way system (sympathetic fight-or-flight and parasympathetic rest-and-digest), but a three-way system that includes a social engagement system.

 

This theory highlights the importance of understanding how our nervous system responds to stress and how it influences our ability to connect with others and regulate our emotions.

 

By incorporating Polyvagal Theory into practice, we can better support our clients in managing their responses to stress and trauma, ultimately promoting healing and well-being.

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CO-OP APPROACH

The Cognitive Orientation to daily Occupational Performance (CO-OP) approach is an evidenced-based client-centered intervention that focuses on improving a person's performance in daily activities through cognitive strategies in 10 sessions.

 

This approach helps people to identify their goals, develop problem-solving skills by making a plan, attempting their go by doing and learn strategies to overcome and barriers in their plan, by checking to see what works and what needs to change.  

 

By using the CO-OP approach, we help to empower our clients to take an active role in their therapy and develop skills that can be applied across various activities and environments.

 

This approach emphasises collaboration, goal-setting, and skill-building and enhances our client's independence and participation in meaningful activities.

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