In this expert tip video, Jennifer Kemp discusses the harmful effects of the “bootstrap mentality,” particularly for ADHD and autistic clients. A pervasive belief in self-reliance and grit often leads to internalised ableism, self-sabotage, and an inability to accept help. As therapists we should help our clients to challenge these outdated patterns and support them to embrace help, showing it as a strength, not a weakness.
This video is taken from our ‘Expert tips for ACT’ playlist on YouTube:
JENNIFER KEMP is a privately practicing Clinical Psychologist living in Adelaide, Australia. She specialises in helping people struggling with perfectionism, anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, weight management, and chronic illness, and many of her clients are also neurodivergent. She integrates ACT and functional analysis with compassion-focused approaches and her lived experience to help her clients live fulfilling and meaningful lives.
