The EMPOWER Model: A Framework for Fostering Neurodivergent Occupational Participation and Supporting Neurodiversity-Affirming Occupational Therapy Practice

Neurodivergent occupations are ways of embodying life and experiencing the world that speak true to their neurotype; they are vivid, complex, and need to be fostered by the occupational therapy profession. Though the neurodiversity movement is garnering increased attention in the profession, the medical model of disability remains the dominating lens influencing occupational therapy services. Neuronormativity remains the ideal form of participation, which can lead to occupational therapists manifesting occupational marginalization with their neurodivergent clients. To date, there is a lack of practical frameworks supporting occupational therapists in integrating neurodiversity-affirming and anti-ableist principles into everyday occupational therapy practice. This paper responds to this need by introducing the Empowering Neurodivergent Occupational Participation and Well-being (EMPOWER) model. The EMPOWER model is designed to guide occupational therapists in translating the neurodiversity framework into practice while dismantling ableism in the profession. By incorporating the EMPOWER model, occupational therapists can increase their ability to champion neurodivergent occupations and promote a paradigm shift toward inclusive practices that honor neurodivergent experiences and ways of living.