The Medical vs. Social Model of Disability: What’s the Difference? There are different ways of understanding what disability is and how it should be addressed. The medical model focuses on the individual, viewing disability as a problem or deficit within the person that needs to be diagnosed, treated, or fixed. It assumes that the goal is to make the individual fit into existing societal norms. In contrast, the social model shifts the focus away from the individual to the barriers in society that disable people—such as inaccessible environments, inflexible systems, and stigmatizing attitudes. According to this model, people aren’t disabled by their bodies or minds but by a world that isn’t built for their diversity. This perspective calls for inclusion and systemic change rather than trying to “fix” the individual who is struggling. Unmasking Neurodivergence and Complex Mental Health Many neurodivergent people and people with complex mental health conditions face pressure to mask their authentic selves—they’ll hide behaviours, feelings, or ways of thinking to fit societal expectations and norms. Masking might help with short-term survival but often leads to exhaustion, anxiety, shame, and disconnection. Unmasking, then, becomes both a personal and political act. It reclaims identity and resists systems that demand conformity. Inclusive Therapy and Music Therapy Rooted in The Social Model We believe therapy should be a space for unmasking, not for compliance. At FYVMT, we recognize that neurodivergence and mental health challenges are part of many people’s lived experiences – not problems to be solved. Instead, we support clients in exploring their authentic selves, identifying the external barriers impacting their well-being, and developing tools for resilience that honour who they truly are. We do this by creating a safe, supportive environment where clients can show up without fear of being judged, pathologized, or pushed to change in ways that feel inauthentic. Check out more about our clinical team values, and our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion statement. Building a More Inclusive Canada One Therapy Session at a Time We know through experience that healing happens when people feel seen, accepted, and supported—not when we’re forced to perform a version of ourselves to meet someone else’s standard. Supporting clients through a social model lens isn’t just a clinical choice—it’s a political one. It’s a commitment to dismantling ableism, challenging oppressive norms, and advocating for a world where all people, regardless of how their brain works, can access care, dignity, and joy. Mackenzie (she/her) works with high-masking adults with autism in Halifax and virtually across Canada, and Alexa (she/her) works with people experiencing complex mental health challenges in Ottawa and virtually across Canada. Get in touch with us to explore your options for working with either of them to find out how they might support you in your unmasking.
Unmasking Is Political: A Social Model Approach to Therapy and Support for Mental Health and Neurodivergence
