The Social Model of Disability argues that a person is not disabled by their biological differences, but rather by a society that refuses to accommodate them, such as sensory-unfriendly workplaces or rigid operational structures.

While this model is crucial for fighting stigma and advocating for systemic change, an over-reliance on it can sometimes overlook personal agency and internal physical realities. If we assume that all challenges disappear with external accommodations, we risk ignoring the very real, internal physical experiences, such as chronic fatigue, executive challenges, or sensory pain, that persist even in a supportive environment. Crucially, it can also inadvertently encourage an external locus of control, where personal growth and relational accountability are paused while waiting for the environment to change.

The Predicament Model, coined by disability scholar Dr Tom Shakespeare, views disability and neurodivergence as a complex ‘predicament.’ It acknowledges two truths simultaneously:

• The Outer Predicament: Society creates unnecessary structural barriers that require systemic dismantling.

• The Inner Predicament: There is a distinct, lived biological reality to navigating an ADHD or Autistic nervous system, which requires intentional pacing and personal responsibility to manage.

This framework is highly relevant for individuals navigating chronic physiological challenges, but it also extends to our psychological choices. Recognising your neurotype as a "predicament" allows you to hold self-compassion for your biological limitations while maintaining a steadfast commitment to character integrity. A diagnosis explains the inner predicament; it does not excuse us from addressing how our responses to that predicament affect our relationships and personal evolution.

The Intersection of Physical Context & Relational Well-being

In clinical practice, it is widely recognised that psychological well-being is deeply intertwined with our physical health context. For many neurodivergent adults, navigating life includes managing a variety of co-occurring physical vulnerabilities, such as autonomic or connective tissue sensitivities, that place an extra tax on baseline energy reserves.

From a psychological perspective, recognising this mind-body connection is essential. My role as a psychologist is not to treat or manage these underlying physical or medical conditions, but rather to support you in navigating the profound emotional, cognitive, and relational impacts of living with intersecting processing differences/challenges.

Together, we focus on moving past protective, defensive strategies and moving toward sustainable pathways for pacing, executive energy management, and deep interpersonal accountability. We work to build a life where your nervous system is accommodated, and your character is consistently invited to mature and flourish.