Understanding Disability Justice in Therapy

Disability Justice is a framework developed by disabled queer and trans people of colour—notably through collectives like Sins Invalid—that centres the experiences, leadership, and knowledge of disabled communities. It moves beyond seeing disability as a medical problem to be solved, instead recognizing disability as a political and social identity that intersects with other forms of oppression. Core principles include anti-capitalist politics, cross-movement solidarity, recognizing wholeness, collective access, and sustainability. In therapy, a Disability Justice-informed approach means the therapist actively challenges ableism, honours disabled wisdom, and adapts their practice to be genuinely accessible and affirming.

Many traditional therapeutic approaches operate from a medical model that frames disability as something to overcome or minimize. Disability Justice-informed therapy instead recognizes disability as an identity and culture, centres the expertise of disabled people, and acknowledges how ableism intersects with racism, classism, and other systems of oppression. Rather than focusing on individual adjustment to an inaccessible world, this approach validates the real barriers clients face and supports them in whatever ways feel meaningful—whether that's navigating systems, exploring identity, processing grief and rage, or building community. It's a framework that prioritizes liberation over normalization.

This approach may resonate with disabled people, chronically ill people, neurodivergent people, and those with chronic pain who want a therapist who truly understands systemic barriers rather than placing responsibility solely on the individual. It can be particularly meaningful for those holding multiple marginalized identities—such as disabled people who are also BIPOC, queer, trans, or working-class—who seek a therapist attuned to how these identities intersect. People who have experienced harm or dismissal in medical or mental health settings, or who are exploring disability identity and community, may also find this framework affirming.

Consider whether the therapist demonstrates genuine accessibility—not just physical access, but flexibility around scheduling, communication styles, and session pacing. A Disability Justice-informed therapist should be knowledgeable about ableism and its impacts, willing to challenge their own assumptions, and respectful of your expertise in your own experience. They should understand disability as intersecting with other identities and not centre productivity or normalization as goals. You might ask how they've educated themselves about Disability Justice, how they adapt their practice, and how they view disability. Learning what makes a good therapeutic fit can help you identify the right match.

Disability Justice shares foundations with several other frameworks you might explore. Anti-oppressive therapy examines how systems of power affect mental health and the therapeutic relationship. Culturally responsive therapy centres clients' cultural identities and contexts. Liberation psychology focuses on collective healing and challenging oppressive systems. Feminist therapy and LGBTQ2S+-affirming therapy also address power, identity, and systemic harm. Trauma-informed care recognizes how trauma—including systemic trauma—shapes people's lives. Many therapists integrate multiple frameworks, so you may find someone who draws on several of these approaches in their practice.

First Session's growing network includes therapists across Canada who incorporate Disability Justice principles into their work. You can browse therapist profiles to learn about their approaches, watch intro videos, and see whether their practice feels like a fit. Many therapists offer free consultations, which can be a helpful way to ask questions about their framework and accessibility before committing. If you're uncertain about therapy costs, exploring different therapists' rates—which they set themselves—can help you find options within your budget.