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Supporting Neurodivergent
People with OCD

At NECOA, we are committed to neuroaffirming care. This guide uses identity-first language (e.g., ‘autistic person’) in keeping with how many neurodivergent people describe themselves. We also use terms like ‘affirming care’ (support that validates someone’s identity rather than trying to change it) and ‘self-determination’ (people making choices about their own lives). A short glossary is included at the end.

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We recognize that autistic and other neurodivergent people with OCD experience the world in ways that are unique and valuable. Supporting them does not mean changing who they are — it means listening carefully, honoring their lived experiences, and helping reduce the barriers that get in the way of the lives they want to lead.

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This collection of resources highlights identity-first perspectives from autistic writers, neurodivergent advocates, and clinicians committed to affirming care. Each resource centers the voices of neurodivergent people with OCD and offers practical tools for individuals, families, and professionals. Our goal is to share materials that encourage understanding, amplify strengths, and provide pathways to evidence-based support that respects self-determination and vibrancy.

Autistic Community and the Neurodiversity Movement

This book brings together a large collection of neurodiverse contributors to talk about events that shaped the movement, events they themselves were involved in.

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Focuses on activists’ direct experience effecting change for people who identify as autistic rather than abstract accounts that reflect on autism’s social construction or essence

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Provides a one-stop shop for readers interested in the history and ideas of the neurodiversity movement and how these ideas have shaped production of expert and especially lay knowledge about autism

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Gathers a collective of autistic activist/academic voices and engages in current theoretical debates around knowledge production and epistemic authority within (critical) research on autism

OCD & Autism Intersection

This IOCDF resource center includes information and resources about when OCD and autism happen together, treatment options, information for family members, and stories from autistic individuals living with OCD

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Offers a growing set of materials for individuals, families, and professionals for navigating both OCD and autism. Notably, they use identity-first language (e.g., “autistic”) in recognition of lived experience.. (International OCD Foundation)

Supporting Loved Ones with OCD in Affirming Ways

Affirming care is imperative when supporting a loved one navigating a mental health diagnosis such as OCD.  If someone is disclosing their OCD diagnosis, it often stems from a desire to connect and feel accepted. Misdiagnoses often delay access to affirming care, however responding with empathy and validation to your loved ones’ lived experiences can be extremely powerful and healing.

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This resource offers guidance on how friends, family, and healthcare providers can validate and support someone with OCD—focusing on responses that affirm rather than invalidate.

Additional Tools and Resources

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OCD Visual Resources – Autistic RealmsFeatures neurodiversity-affirming visuals that explain obsessive and compulsive experiences in a compassionate, stigma-reducing way. Helpful for individuals, families, and professionals. (Autistic Realms)

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Autism & ADHD - Resources for autistic and ADHD people, families, and professionals, offering tools on identity, executive functioning, burnout, and everyday strategies for support and well-being. (Jennifer Kemp, BSc(Psych)Hons, MPsych(Clinical), GradDipApplSc(Psychology of Coaching), MAPS, FCCLP, Adjunct Lecturer, School of Psychology, University of Adelaide)

Glossary

  • Identity-first language: Saying “autistic person” instead of “person with autism,” to reflect that autism is a core part of identity.

  • Neurodivergent: People whose brains process, learn, or behave differently from what is considered typical (e.g., autism, ADHD).

  • Affirming care: Support that respects who a person is and works with their strengths.

  • Self-determination: The right to make decisions about your own life and treatment, the fundamental human yearning to live authentically in the service of your values.

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