Why Language Matters When Speaking about Neurodiversity: Perspectives from a Pediatric Speech Therapist in NYC
I just attended an insightful and meaningful course presented by Lindsey Biel, OTR/L. The course was entitled: Positive, Strength-Based Strategies for Sensitive Kids: A Sensory Smart™ Approach. She is an amazing occupational therapist who works with people of all ages with visual, sensory, and motor differences.
As a differently-abled person and a pediatric speech therapist in NYC, I found this course to be extremely affirming to my personal experiences as a child who grew up with physical, sensory, and learning differences. It also reinforced the values I bring to my own speech therapy sessions, centered on empowerment, sensory awareness, and affirming communication.
As I continue to navigate the world as a neurodivergent person.
I am reminded daily of the importance of examining the language we use to describe people.
Perhaps you may wonder, “Why is the language we use so important?”
A Pediatric Speech Therapist’s Insight on the Power of Language
Let me tell a little story about myself to illustrate this idea.
When I was about 3 years old, I had just received a heel cord lengthening. The doctors had released my achilles tendon and put my leg in an immobile brace (up to my knee).
My mother visited the surgeon, rightly concerned about my leg’s overall mobility and weakened state of muscle (due to inactivity after the surgery).
There was no therapeutic intervention scheduled.
When (my very astute) young mother questioned the surgeon about strategies to improve my leg’s range of motion, strength, and flexibility, this doctor barked his opinions at my mother and me rapidly.
He matter-of-factly stated that “therapy was a waste of money. If you wanted to go that route, you could, but you would be throwing your money out the window.”
He stated his position. In summary, what could be achieved had already been accomplished through his surgery. Nothing else to do. Period. Go home. Leave. I’ve done my work.
That was the vibe we both felt.
Well, with that, my mother swiftly turned around and walked right out that doctor’s office door!
And she turned around to me and said: “Not every doctor knows what they are talking about. Do not listen to him. We are going to therapy, and I think it will definitely help!
So, if you think words do not have power, think again.
Language as a Tool for Healing and Growth
Even as a small child, I remember this moment in my life vividly.
Additionally, I have not forgotten the doctor’s words and how those words made me feel.
They made me feel small, scared, and unimportant.
I also recall my mother briskly walking out of the doctor’s office!
I remember her strength and power in that advocacy.
The warmth I felt as she led the way to choosing a more empowering route.
A path aligned.
Positively affirming, grounded in agency and choice.
And the right therapy and education were the best investment my family ever made.
As a pediatric speech therapist in NYC and as someone who has lived through these experiences, I know firsthand that language definitely matters.
And as parents, caregivers, therapists, teachers, and medical professionals, I invite you to be mindful of the language you use around the children you support.
We all absorb language.
Language has energy, power, and meaning.
So, let’s all use positive language when speaking about neurodivergent people!
Let me share with you some examples about how language around mental, emotional, sensory, physical, and learning differences has evolved and expanded over the last decade.
I personally find the term differences or differently-abled more affirming than the term disability.
The word disability is literally translated to mean without ability.
I do not feel I am “without ability!”
No, instead, I experience differences. Differences in the way my body, mind & soul experience the world!
An Invitation to Listen, Learn, and Affirm
The Autistic community has voiced similar concerns.
Many Autistic people do not want to be labeled as “people with autism.”
They are Autistic people who deeply identify with their differences as a part of who they are and their being, which should not be pathologized or cured.
Therefore, I invite everyone to listen to the voices of the neurodiverse communities, those of us who have lived in our differently-abled bodies.
Ask us what language we prefer to use. Everyone is different and has different preferences.
I promise you, just showing the intention that you care and would like to create a comfortable space for someone with neurodiverse experiences will go such a long way!
Be curious.
And be open to learning from other neurodivergent people and their lived experiences.
Ask questions.
Use positive-affirming language with your child.
Language is powerful, and it matters. It creates ripples that could influence a child for the rest of their lives. So, I invite you to use positive language to create positive change!
Closing Reflections from a Pediatric Speech Therapist in NYC
Chatty Child’s speech therapists provide creative and innovative in-person and online therapy sessions across all of New York State.
To book an in-person or online speech therapy assessment and treatment sessions with Heather Lynn Boerner, MA CCC/SLP, please visit our website at: www.chattychild.com; email: info@chattychild.com; or call: 347 491 4451
Sincerely,
Heather Lynn Boerner, MA CCC/SLP
Respecting Neurodiversity Through Pediatric Speech Therapy in NYC
At Chatty Child Speech & Occupational Therapy, we believe that honoring how each child communicates begins with the language we use. As a pediatric speech therapist in NYC, our approach is rooted in neurodiversity-affirming care. Celebrating differences and supporting authentic expression. We work collaboratively with families to center each child’s unique voice and strengths.
Here’s how to get started:
- Schedule a free 15-minute phone conversation to discuss your child’s communication style and how we can help support it.
- Book an initial consultation and evaluation session to set goals aligned with your child’s needs and values.
- Begin ongoing speech therapy sessions designed to support growth, connection, and self-advocacy.
- Watch your child thrive. Not by changing who they are, but by feeling empowered to be themselves.
More Ways We Support Children and Families at Chatty Child
In addition to our core pediatric speech therapy services in NYC, Chatty Child offers a comprehensive range of supports designed to foster each child’s development while empowering the family as a whole:
- InterAct – A creative program that combines theater and communication therapy, helping kids grow expressive language skills through play, storytelling, and movement.
- Occupational Therapy – Supports children in building fine motor skills, managing sensory needs, and becoming more independent in everyday routines.
- Teletherapy – Flexible virtual sessions for speech and occupational therapy, accessible to families across New York State.
- Tutoring – Personalized academic help in literacy, writing, and creative problem-solving to boost classroom success and self-confidence.
- Functional Nutrition – Holistic nutritional support designed to enhance both physical well-being and emotional balance in developing children.
- Consulting – Collaborative guidance for caregivers, educators, and providers working together to support each child’s unique path.
- Programs – Engaging group classes and enrichment opportunities focused on connection, creativity, and social-emotional development.
Meet the Author: A Pediatric Speech Therapist in NYC
Heather Lynn Boerner, MA CCC/SLP, is a nationally certified and New York State licensed speech-language pathologist with over two decades of experience providing pediatric speech therapy in NYC. In addition to her clinical background, Heather is a certified mindfulness and meditation teacher, a trauma-informed provider, and a proud neurodiverse and differently-abled individual. Her personal and professional experiences deeply inform her approach to care.
Heather’s own journey as a differently-abled person led her to establish Chatty Child Speech, Occupational & Physical Therapy, PLLC, an inclusive practice dedicated to empowering children through individualized, compassionate support. She is also the author of Carrie the Colorful Chameleon, a children’s book that promotes confidence, learning, and friendship. The story includes a teaching guide designed for use by parents and educators alike.
Heather and her team offer services both in-person at their Tribeca, Manhattan clinic and virtually throughout New York State, helping children grow in confidence, communication, and self-expression.
Chatty Child Speech, Occupational & Physical Therapy, PLLC
Creating Possibilities .. one child at a time ..
Chatty Child Provides Pediatric Speech & Occupational Therapy & Classes in Tribeca, Manhattan, NYC – In Person at 325 Broadway Suite 403 New York, NY 10007 & serving the entire state of New York including: NYC, Westchester, Hudson Valley, Long Island via online therapy in New York State.
www.chattychild.com 347 491 4451 info@chattychild.com
This website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a therapeutic relationship. © 2025 Heather Lynn Boerner | all rights reserved.
