Ep 66 – Neurodiversity & MI
Ep 66 – Neurodiversity & MI
Glenn Hinds Neurodiversity & MI
Glenn and Seb were honoured to have Deb Solomon on the podcast to discuss neurodiversity. 
Deb is a social worker in Adult Care, and a Practice Development Lead. Following a surprise diagnosis of ADHD in 2020 she went on to set up and chair the first UK group for neurodivergent social workers through the British Association Of Social Workers (BASW) after recognising the lack of knowledge and support in the profession. Deb is also the Vice Chair of BASW Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Group and has recently set up the Neurodiversity Network for her local authority. Deb presents workshops on neurodiversity, executive functioning and is passionate about ensuring anyone who thinks differently is safe to be their whole selves, celebrating strengths as well as promoting acceptance for all neurotypes.
Episode index:
Neurodiversity and Motivational Interviewing
Deb Solomon explores neurodiversity and Motivational Interviewing, drawing on her professional experience in social work and her lived experience of ADHD. She discusses what MI practitioners may need to understand when working with neurodivergent people, including executive functioning, communication and the importance of creating conversations in which people feel safe to be themselves.
The episode also considers ambivalence, strengths, acceptance and moving beyond labels towards understanding what an individual needs. These themes connect with Acceptance, Partnership and Empowerment.
In this episode
00:00 – Opening and episode preview
07:25 – Deb’s introduction and early story
10:08 – Gender differences in ADHD
14:26 – What changed for Deb after receiving the ADHD diagnosis
20:30 – What an MI practitioner should know when working with clients who are neurodiverse
34:10 – Deb’s emotional and cognitive experiences as someone with ADHD
40:40 – Ambivalence and the executive functions
56:25 – “I have to get it (a thought) out”
1:02:16 – What’s helped Deb that might help others
1:06:25 – Media attention towards neurodiversity
1:11:55 – End of episode
Contact information:
Twitter: @ND_SWgroup
Email: deb.solomon@basw.co.uk
Listen to Episode 66
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