EDF5569 Neurodiversity across the lifespan

This unit develops your advanced knowledge and applied skills in working with neurodevelopmental and neurocognitive differences across the lifespan, such as ADHD, autism, and dementia. You will apply contemporary, neurodiversity-affirming frameworks to understand diverse patterns of development and their intersections with mental health. Emphasis is placed on recognising the uniqueness of individual presentations and the importance of strengths‑based, person‑centred approaches. You will learn to use an ecological framework to inform case formulation, considering how social, cultural, environmental, and systemic factors shape experiences of disability and wellbeing. Through applied learning activities, you will build your capacity to integrate neurodiversity-affirming and culturally responsive approaches to all aspects of systemic and individual practice, including intake, assessment, formulation, and intervention. The unit also focuses on the selection and evaluation of evidence‑based interventions and the development of meaningful, client‑centred recommendations. You will consider collaborative and interprofessional approaches that promote participation, inclusion, psychological safety, and quality of life. Throughout the unit, you will strengthen your ability to deliver ethical, affirming, and responsive psychological services that support client autonomy, identity, and well-being across the lifespan.