Compassionate

Nutrition Support

Hi there,

I am Madeline (or Maddie, Mads, Madge) - the director and sole dietitian at The Divergent Space!

My professional journey, which spans over ten years, has been focused on the disability sector. I started as a support worker and now work as an Accredited Practising Dietitian.

I provide nutrition support from a neurodiversity-affirming, trauma-informed, body-inclusive and anti-oppressive approach. I have a particular interest in supporting neurodivergent folks.

My approach to nutrition care, and the inspiration behind starting The Divergent Space, comes from building relationships with clients, listening to people with lived experience from diverse backgrounds, wonderful professionals already working from these approaches and drawing on my own lived experience as a neurodivergent human.

I recognise that providing neurodiversity-affirming, body-inclusive, trauma-informed and anti-oppressive care is a continuous journey of learning and growth. I am committed to staying as informed and reflective as possible, while acknowledging that perspectives and practices evolve over time. By listening to lived experiences, engaging with ongoing education and being open to feedback, I strive to offer care that is compassionate, equitable and responsive to the diverse and unique needs of those I support.

I understand that ‘health’ and ‘wellness’ are deeply personal and unique to each individual, shaped by your experiences, needs and identity.

As a dietitian, my goal is to help food fit into your life in a way that feels right for you—honouring your autonomy and lived experience.

I’m here to walk alongside you, empowering you to make choices that are aligned with who you are.

A space that honours

all bodyminds

[‘Bodyminds’ recognises that physical and mental experiences are deeply intertwined and cannot be separated]

A FOCUS ON

NEURODIVERGENT FOLKS

  • AUTISM

  • SENSORY PROCESSING

  • INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY

  • ABI/TBI

  • DOWN SYNDROME

  • FASD

  • ADHD

  • LEARNING DISABILITIES

  • OCD

  • SCHIZOPHRENIA

  • BIPOLAR

  • ANXIETY

  • DEPRESSION

  • PTSD AND COMPLEX PTSD

  • BPD

  • TIC DISORDERS

“Neurodivergent" is a term used to describe individuals whose mind and functioning differ from what is considered typical or "neurotypical" by societal norms/standards/expectations.

Here is a non-exhaustive list of what the term Neurodivergent encompasses:

The Divergent Space

Practice Principles

The principles of Neurodiversity-Affirming Practice were developed by Sonny Jane Wise, a leading advocate for neurodiversity. These principles are grounded in the belief that neurological diversity is a natural and valuable part of human variation, and they emphasise respect, empowerment, and inclusion for neurodivergent individuals. Learn more at www.livedexperienceeducator.com.

Body-Inclusive Care

  • Recognises that health is multifaceted and not solely determined by body size

  • Does not emphasise weight loss or body size as measures of success

  • Acknowledges that every body is different and health looks different for each person

  • Understands that health exists on a moving scale or spectrum, fluctuating over time due to factors such as life circumstances, chronic conditions and evolving needs. Health is more complex than simply being ‘healthy’ or ‘unhealthy’.

  • Considers the impact of social determinants of health, including access to food, housing, healthcare and community support and advocates for equitable opportunities to achieve well-being

  • Prioritises overall well-being

  • Respects individuals’ diverse needs, abilities, and circumstances

  • Promotes self-compassion

  • Honours autonomy and lived experience

  • Aims to reduce the harm caused by weight and body stigma, as well as pressures to conform to weight-based or body-based ideals, while recognising that for some individuals, such as those with autism or physical disabilities, changes in body size can have real, valid impacts on their quality of life (e.g., sensory sensitivities or mobility challenges)

  • Maintains curiosity and respect for the unique needs and experiences of trans and gender-diverse individuals, including understanding that body acceptance may not always be a desired or accessible goal and supporting their autonomy in navigating body-related decisions

Credit:
My approach to Body-Inclusive Care is informed by the principles of Health at Every Size (HAES®) and anti-diet frameworks which is used by organisations such as the Association for Size Diversity and Health (ASDH).

Trauma-Informed Care

Trauma affects a person’s ability to seek help and engage with support. Those who have experienced trauma often struggle with fear, safety, and trust. Trauma-informed services create safer spaces, helping individuals build trust and overcome these challenges.

Key elements of Trauma-informed care:

  • Sensitive to the potential impact of trauma in the lives of all individuals seeking support

  • Recognises the impact of trauma on an individual’s relationship with food and their body

  • Recognises and supports the vulnerabilities of trauma survivors

  • Values respect, dignity, and hope as essential components of supportive care

  • Communicates openly and honestly

  • Empowers people to take an active role in their care, respecting autonomy and choices

  • Tailors care to a persons unique cultural, gender, and historical context for relevance and respect

  • Acknowledges coping strategies as efforts to manage difficult experiences

  • Recognises and builds on clients' strengths and resources

  • Offers opportunities for peer support and connections with others who share similar experiences to promote empowerment

  • Mindful of language and practices to prevent re-triggering past trauma

Credit:
My approach is informed by trauma-informed care frameworks, including those developed the work of SAMHSA, Dr. Sandra Bloom and the Blue Knot Foundation (National Centre of Excellence for Complex Trauma).

Ready for Nutrition Support?