Supporting Self Determination in Neurodivergent Individuals
By Jessica Jordan, MS. OTR/L
What Do We Mean By Self Determination?
Self-determination is the ability to make choices, set goals, and advocate for your own life. It's about autonomy, voice, and direction. It's a basic human right one that every person deserves to access, especially those in the neurodivergent community. We as human beings should be in control of our lives, free from undue external control.
Why It Matters for Neurodivergent Individuals?
Far too often, neurodivergent individuals experience a lack of agency. Their preferences may be dismissed. Their goals overlooked. Their voices minimized.
Approximately 50–60% of autistic individuals don’t have access to an appropriate educational program. Some middle school autistic students are still going over the alphabet!
75% are unable to find meaningful employment after high school.
It is alarming the statistics are as high as they are! These aren’t just numbers. They’re real barriers that reflect a lack of self-determination and they highlight why supporting autonomy is critical from childhood through adulthood.
Understanding the Self Determination Theory
Psychologists Edward L. Deci and Richard M. Ryan developed the Self-Determination Theory (SDT), which states that every human being has three basic psychological needs:
Competence – Feeling capable and effective
Autonomy – Having control and choice over one’s life
Relatedness – Feeling connected and supported
How We Can Support Self Determination
We all play a role in nurturing autonomy and voice—whether we’re parents, therapists, educators, or friends. Here are some of the most powerful ways to support it:
1. Model goal setting and problem solving
Help break down short and long term goals, and model how to work through obstacles. Consider using a strengths based assessment to help individuals better understand and advocate for themselves.
2. Scaffold daily living skills with support
Teach practical skills with adaptations as needed. Partner with occupational therapists to identify tools, environments, or routines that empower autonomy.
3. Presume competence in every interaction
Always speak to the individual, not about them. Believe they understand, even if communication looks different. Support reflection on progress on goals and celebrate it with genuine feedback.
4. Offer real choices and decision-making opportunities
Provide choice making opportunities. Everyone needs help making decisions at times, however needing help isn’t a good reason to take away someone’s choices. Even if an individual needs help, they still have the right to make their own choices through various forms of communication! Whether through spoken language, visuals, gestural cues or AAC (high or low tech), offer options and honor the individual's voice.
5. Personalize goals around interests and strengths
Consider individual preferences & ensure that goals align with interests. Interventions to promote self determination should be personalized by strengths, interests and supports.
A Local Resource: San Diego’s Self Determination Program
If you're in California, the San Diego Regional Center offers a program where individuals and families can participate in self-directed planning and support.
📍 Learn more at:www.sdrc.org/sdp
Closing Thoughts
When we support self determination, we’re honoring the full humanity of neurodivergent individuals. We’re saying: your goals matter. Your preferences matter. And you deserve a say in your own life.
If you're looking for support in creating personalized strategies, identifying strengths, or learning how to build more autonomy into your home or therapy work we’re here to help. Our team of OTs is passionate about empowering neurodivergent families with practical tools, affirming support, and individualized insight. Reach out to us anytime.
Helpful Links
If you found this post helpful, you’ll love our therapy resources! Whether you’re a parent or therapist, our apraxia and autism courses are here to offer practical tools, compassionate guidance, and real-world strategies you can use every day.
👨👩👧👦 For Parents & Caregivers: Autism Training | Online Course for Parents and Caregivers
🧑🏫 For Therapists: Therapist Course for Apraxia and Autism | Mentorship for OTs and Therapists
🏥 Work With Us: In-Person Occupational Therapy (San Diego & Long Beach Areas) | Virtual Coaching
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