Xtraordinary People's therapeutic innovation transforms the treatment of neurodiversity
Barcelona, November 2024.- Neus Marí Cardona, therapeutic director of Xtraordinary People, argues that neurodiversity is not a challenge to overcome, but rather “a unique way of experiencing and perceiving the world”. Under his direction, Xtraordinary People has consolidated a therapeutic approach that integrates biological, psychological, social and relational aspects, offering comprehensive support to people with neurodivergences such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), learning difficulties, high abilities or epilepsy.
“Neurodiversity must be accepted and understood, not corrected,” Marí stresses, adding: “Differences in development are often perceived as something that must conform to a standard. However, each neurodiverse person brings Xtraordinary vision and potential that can only flourish in an environment that understands, respects and supports them.”
This approach is not limited to individual treatment, but also encompasses the person's immediate environment: family, school, and community. “Our bio-psycho-social-relational approach allows us to see the person in a global way, understanding that their well-being depends not only on clinical interventions, but also on how they interact with their context. We cannot isolate the biological from the emotional and the social. If a child doesn't feel understood at school or in their family, their progress will be limited, however precise our intervention may be.”
Marí emphasizes the importance of an early and accurate diagnosis: “The first step is to understand how each person's brain works and how it interacts with their environment. This approach allows us to personalize our interventions, adapting the therapeutic plan to the individual's specific needs, so that they can move forward at their own pace, without feeling that they are failing.”
A key part of this approach is the incorporation of advances in neuroscience. “Neuroscience allows us to understand in greater depth how brain connections are formed and how they influence learning, social interaction and emotional regulation. For example, in children with ADHD, we know that brain areas related to attention and self-control may work differently. This peculiarity is not a defect, but rather a feature that, when properly understood, can be managed and used for your benefit”.
In addition, Marí highlights her dedication to the Xtraordinary Baby program, designed to accompany families during the first years of their children's lives, combining pediatric care, educational support and neurodevelopmental care. “Our goal is to provide families with the necessary support to ensure a healthy and happy development during the first years of life, promoting prevention, support and early care,” explains Marí.
Expert training
On the other hand, Xtraordinary People is committed to training experts in neurodiversity through the training program in the Xtraordinary Methodology. This course is aimed at health and education professionals, and combines theoretical and practical training in the field of neuroeducation and neurodevelopment. “Our training seeks to train experts who can work effectively in therapeutic and educational intervention, ensuring comprehensive and personalized support for people with neurodivergences,” says Marí.
The bio-psycho-social and relational approach not only seeks to improve a person's ability to adapt, but also to transform their environment. “Part of our work is to create more inclusive environments, both at home and at school and any other social context, so that each person can develop to the maximum of their abilities. This involves understanding and adjusting to needs, both expectations and intervention strategies.”
Marí recognizes the profound emotional impact that this approach has on children and adolescents. “When a child begins to understand that their differences are not a defect, but a valuable part of who they are, their self-esteem improves significantly. Our goal is not for them to adapt to a mold, but to find their own way and feel safe in it.”
At Xtraordinary People, the mission goes beyond simple clinical intervention; it's about building a support network that allows neurodiverse people to live a full and enriching life. “It's not just about academic or social outcomes, but about overall health and well-being. When we manage to make a person and their environment understand and accept their individual differences, we are building a society that is more inclusive and respectful of diversity”, he concludes.