Neurodiverse Education
The term "neurodiverse" simply means that there is diversity in the ways that human minds process information just as there is diversity in our ethnic backgrounds, gender affiliations, and cultural adaptations. The process of growth at LJ Friedrich Consultants, LLC is to learn about the individual, discover what he or she needs to succeed, then teach them and their families how to get what they need for an ever-higher quality of life. Dr. Friedrich's degrees are in education, so the focus is on LEARNING, not BEHAVIOR MODIFICATION. This is a critical understanding. At LJFC, we believe that all people of differing abilities can learn and grow. Our programs are designed to this end.
For further reference:
Silberman, S. (2015). Neurotribes: The Legacy of Autism and the Future of Neurodiversity. New York: Penguin Random House.
For further reference:
Silberman, S. (2015). Neurotribes: The Legacy of Autism and the Future of Neurodiversity. New York: Penguin Random House.
Universal Design
In the higher education classroom, Dr. Friedrich uses a principle called "Universal Design" to promote greater access to her course lessons. The concept is to use a variety of methods to communicate and distribute material. At LJ Friedrich Consultants, LLC the application of Universal Design can be seen through flexibility. Materials used for tutoring, training, and consulting are available to members in a variety of ways. We build the bridge to make sure that each member gets the information he or she needs. At the YOU Fit Center, our facilities will be designed to be barrier free to all of our members.
For further reference:
"The Principles of Universal Design Version 2.0" (1997). The Center for Universal Design. Retrieved from http://www.ncu.edu
For further reference:
"The Principles of Universal Design Version 2.0" (1997). The Center for Universal Design. Retrieved from http://www.ncu.edu
Hierarchy of Needs
Based on Maslow's motivational theory of the hierarchy of human needs, LJ Friedrich Consultants, LLC acknowledges that in order to reach the highest level of life fulfillment for any human (regardless of differing neurologies and abilities), the basic physical and psychological needs must be met first. The way that this theory applies to our work at LJFC and the YOU Fit Neurodivergent Studio is that our primary responsibility is to provide a SAFE and SECURE environment where differently abled members may begin to thrive. Our second goal is to offer a sense of belonging and accomplishment through connections at LJFC and programs at YOU Fit. We encourage each member to reach their full potential by working through the pyramid of needs toward supported self fulfillment.
For further reference:
Maslow, A. H. (1943). A Theory of human motivation. Psychological Review. 50(4), 370-396.
For further reference:
Maslow, A. H. (1943). A Theory of human motivation. Psychological Review. 50(4), 370-396.
Quality of Life
The "notion of a good life" has been researched by Danish professors Soren Ventegodt, Joav Merrick, and Niels Jorgen Andersen. Their theory of "Quality of Life" is used at LJ Friedrich Consultants, LLC as a foundation for bringing our members to meaning, happiness, satisfaction, and well-being. Often differently abled individuals are thought to be unable of having these aspects to life. We do not believe that. Helping differently abled adults and their families understand realistic expectations for daily living and then reaching those expectations can bring a unique satisfaction called quality of life.
For further reference:
Ventegodt, S. Merrick, J. and Andersen, N.J. (2003) Quality of life theory II: Quality of life as the realization of life potential: a biological theory of human being. The Scientific World Journal. 3, 1041-1049.
For further reference:
Ventegodt, S. Merrick, J. and Andersen, N.J. (2003) Quality of life theory II: Quality of life as the realization of life potential: a biological theory of human being. The Scientific World Journal. 3, 1041-1049.
Transition Assistance
Adapting to change is difficult for most human beings. Transition between phases of life often creates stifling anxiety and/or standstill in neurodivergent adults. There are many ways to identify changes in life and provide supportive structure to ease the tension. At LJ Friedrich Consultants, LLC we realize that early adulthood is full of transition situations: from childhood to adulthood, high school to higher education, and school world to a work environment. These roads are discussed and structured for all of our members, providing strategies for personal independence and family support.
For further reference:
Schlossberg, N. (1981). A Model for analyzing human adaptation to transition. The Counseling Psychologist. 9(2), 2-18.
For further reference:
Schlossberg, N. (1981). A Model for analyzing human adaptation to transition. The Counseling Psychologist. 9(2), 2-18.