This is SUCH a great question — and while we wish the answer could be a simple “yes,” the reality is a little more complex. 

While we strongly support neurodiversity-affirming practices, we acknowledge that statements and messaging may not always reflect real-world practice. As such, it is not possible to guarantee the approach or values of any individual or organisation. To minimise the risk of misrepresentation, the Directory does not promote itself as exclusively listing neurodiversity-affirming providers.

However, we do reserve the right to reject, suspend, or remove Listings where services are clearly misaligned with neurodiversity-affirming values.  Information provided in the Listing Form — along with publicly available content such as websites and social media — may be used to assess eligibility. Providers that promote the idea of “fixing” or “treating” autism, or offer ABA-based therapies, are not eligible for a Listing.

To proceed with creating a Listing, providers must be able to answer ‘Yes’ to the following 3 questions:

• Do you confirm that your business is committed to providing neurodiversity-affirming support and services?

• Does your business offer a strengths and rights-based approach to developmental differences, aiming to provide support and adaptations that affirm neurodivergent identity?

• Is your business committed to hearing and validating the voices, perspectives, and preferences of neurodivergent individuals?

Providers are also asked to share a summary of their approach by answering:

• How does your business understand and approach autism?

• In practical terms, how does your business provide services and support that is neurodiversity-affirming for autistic individuals?

• In what ways does your business support autistic individuals to express their identity authentically and accommodate their individual sensory needs?