Categories: ADHD TreatmentDecision Making

Disagreeing with Professionals Respectfully

  1. Be clear and specific about your concerns
    • Articulate exactly what you disagree with and why
    • Avoid vague complaints, as they are harder to address constructively
  2. Listen without interrupting
    • Focus on understanding, not reacting
    • Show respect for the professional’s perspective
  3. Use “I” statements to express your feelings
    • Example: “I feel concerned about…” instead of “You’re wrong about…”
    • This approach focuses on your experience rather than placing blame
  4. Ask questions to understand their perspective
    • Demonstrate engagement and a desire to comprehend their reasoning
    • Example: “Can you help me understand why you recommend this approach?”
  5. Explain your reasoning calmly
    • Present your thought process logically
    • Use evidence or personal experiences to support your viewpoint
  6. Be open to compromise
    • Show willingness to find the middle ground
    • Demonstrate flexibility and cooperation
  7. Acknowledge their expertise while asserting your needs
    • Recognize their knowledge and experience
    • Emphasize that you know your body/mind best
  8. Remember, it’s a collaborative relationship
    • View yourselves as partners in your health or personal development
    • Understand that differing views can be part of a healthy professional relationship
  9. Consider seeking a second opinion if needed
    • A valid option if you consistently feel unheard or uncomfortable
    • Approach this decision thoughtfully and professionally
  10. Choose the right time and place
    • Bring up concerns during a scheduled session
    • Avoid discussing serious disagreements at the very end of the session, in passing or informal settings
  11. Practice self-advocacy
    • Remember that speaking up for yourself is a skill that improves with practice
    • Be confident in expressing your thoughts and concerns
  12. Be prepared
    • Gather relevant information or evidence to support your viewpoint
    • Consider writing down your main points before the discussion
  13. Follow up
    • After expressing disagreement, check in to ensure you’re still on the same page
    • Discuss how to move forward productively
  14. Reevaluate periodically
    • Assess whether the agreed-upon changes are producing the desired results
    • Be open to further adjustments as needed
  15. Know when to move on
    • If the professional relationship consistently fails to meet your needs, consider finding a new provider
    • End the relationship professionally and respectfully
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Tags: ADHDThe ADD Resource CenterTreatment
8 months ago

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