I founded the Neuro-Inclusion Advantage in 2024, primarily aiming to educate, inform and assist organisations in their quest to be neuroinclusive. As an HPCSA registered Counselling Psychologist, I have a private practice specialising in working with neurodivergent clients. In my clinical practice, I take a biopsychosocial approach to neurodiversity, which recognises that the difficulties associated with neurodivergence are often due to both physical differences and societal structures.
As a clinician, I work with individuals to understand and optimise their own unique neurotype. However, in order to improve long-term clinical outcomes, there is also a need for systemic restructuring to make society more inclusive. In this context, I recognised a need to establish a company that can help businesses, educational institutions, healthcare practices, and broader societal systems to better accommodate all neurotypes.
Before qualifying and registering as a psychologist in 2011, I was extensively involved in management training and development. In this capacity, I worked with subject specialists to identify industry-specific knowledge and skills gaps and facilitated focused training and skills development accordingly. Integrating my management training background with my clinical understanding of neurodivergence positions me well to work with organisations, leaders, and individuals to establish neuro-inclusive environments.
Neuroinclusive environments are spaces that value, accommodate, and support the unique strengths and perspectives of diverse neurotypes (ie., ADHD, autism, dyslexia, or dyscalculia). This can be achieved through policies, practices, and strategies that allow neurodivergent employees, students, and stakeholders to thrive. In turn, an inclusive approach allows employers and institutions to benefit from the unique strengths that come with neurodiversity, which can drive progress, productivity, innovation, and organisational well-being. With a deep appreciation of the unique strengths and perspectives of neurodivergent individuals, I also offer personalised coaching services to help neurodivergent clients navigate life’s complexities and achieve their full potential.
Creating more inclusive spaces isn’t just a moral imperative—it’s a smart investment in the future. By designing environments that cater to the needs of neurodivergent individuals, we unlock untapped potential that can drive progress across various industries.
– Jennifer J. Palumbo, (September 30, 2024). Designing A More Neurodivergent, Inclusive World. Forbes Newsletter.