Use problem formulation, not diagnostic formulation

Thank you, Dr Sheri Klassen,¹ for sharing your experience, perception, and impressions regarding being a parent of children who might not fit the “norm” and how to rethink the norm. Your story is a lived experience of many issues parents face, and of the challenges that arise when interacting with health care or education professionals about children who are neurodiverse.

I have found that the most effective approach to such situations is to use problem formulation, which captures strengths, abilities, and challenges, rather than diagnostic formulation. Unfortunately, at times a label (diagnosis) is required to access certain services or funding; nonetheless, education and health care professionals can use a combination of perspectives described in your article, with the main focus on assisting and helping the parent and child to develop and thrive within their realm of abilities, interests, and possibilities. Thank you again for a thought-provoking article!

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