Inspired by the work of Prof Christopher Gillberg and his colleagues, and the work of Drs Judith Gould and Lorna Wing, the origins of the Neurodiversity Centre were in clinical work being done over the last 13 years with families and individuals presenting with neurodevelopmental challenges or differences. The organisation was formally established in 2016, as a dynamic, learning and service-user-oriented organisation committed to offering comprehensive support, understanding and inclusion for those with neurodevelopmental challenges or differences affecting their daily lives. Headquartered in the Western Cape of South Africa, the Neurodiversity Centre operates eight branches and collaborates with satellite-licensed associated branches (LABS) in KwaZulu-Natal, extending our services nationwide and internationally. With a robust multidisciplinary team of approximately 80 dedicated professionals, we aim to serve as a global ESSENCE hub serving, supporting, and including the communities in which we work in our clinical, research and training programmes.
SERVICES OVERVIEW
Introduction
Our Services
How does the process work?
Once you fill in the self-referral form on our website you will be assigned a therapist/key worker. An initial intake will be set up to establish what the most pressing needs are for you and/or your family. Your keyworker might be an educational, counselling, or clinical psychologist. Referrals are very carefully screened to ensure you reach the most appropriate resource.
Based on your needs, you may then be offered a full neurodevelopmental assessment or screening/ family support/ school or work-based observation/ training/ personal/ couple or family support. You may also be offered access to one of the many associates of the Neurodiversity Centre who can help with medication, occupational therapy, speech and language support, dietetics, neurology or other therapy. You will of course be a strong voice in your treatment recommendations, and we will listen to and respect what you feel would be manageable and helpful for you, your family, your organization, your practice or your school.
