65. Jennifer Kemp, MPsych | Understanding Neurodiversity & Living Authentically

My guest today is Jennifer Kemp MPsych. Jennifer Kemp is a clinical psychologist based in Adelaide, Australia. Her neurodiversity-affirming approach is founded on her own experience of being late-diagnosed as Autistic and an ADHDer with the experiences of her clients and the latest research. In her therapeutic practice and when training other therapists, Jennifer recognises and accepts the unique differences and strengths of people with different neurotypes. Building on the social and human rights models of disability, Jennifer weaves together acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) with compassion-focused approaches to help her clients improve their mental health and develop greater self-acceptance, self-compassion, and pride in their neurodivergent identity.

Some of the topics we explore in this episode include:
- How Jennifer’s experience of neurodiversity informs her new book
- The concept of masking and some of the ways Jennifer has personally allowed herself to unmask
- "Spins” or special interests
- How a better understanding of neurodiversity enhances our clinical work
- The importance of context when working with neurodiverse clients
- And how to honor the multiple functions of compulsive behavior