Neurodiversity challenges us to move beyond deficit-based models and instead celebrate differences in learning, communication, and behavior. Autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, and other forms of neurodiversity are shaped not only by biology but also by cultural perspectives, values, and expectations. This workshop series is designed to help families, educators, therapists, and community leaders apply cultural humility in supporting neurodiverse individuals across diverse cultural contexts. By combining principles from game theory, reality therapy, positive behavior support, and cultural humility, participants will learn to honor each individual’s unique experiences while addressing the cultural factors that influence diagnosis, intervention, and support.
Workshop Topics
Workshop Topics
Understanding Neurodiversity Across Cultures: This workshop explores how cultural values, traditions, and worldviews influence the perception of autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, and other neurodiverse conditions. Participants will examine how different cultures define “normal” behavior, how stigma shapes family decisions, and why some families may resist diagnosis or interventions. Through guided reflection, participants will gain strategies to approach families with sensitivity, validate cultural perspectives, and promote inclusion without imposing a single worldview.
Examining Biases and Building Bridges: In this interactive session, participants will uncover personal and systemic biases that affect neurodiverse individuals across cultural contexts. Discussions will focus on how biases can lead to misdiagnosis, underdiagnosis, or exclusion from services. The workshop emphasizes bridge-building strategies, including culturally responsive communication, trust-building with families, and partnerships that align professional expertise with community knowledge.
Family Engagement and Cultural Humility: This workshop highlights the importance of meeting families where they are. Participants will learn strategies for engaging families of neurodiverse children who may have different expectations about behavior, discipline, or therapy. Emphasis will be placed on active listening, empathy, and shared decision-making that respects cultural identity while introducing evidence-based practices. Participants will leave with tools to build strong, collaborative partnerships that empower families as central decision-makers.
Education and Inclusion: Schools as Partners: Designed for educators, school staff, and community partners, this workshop equips participants with strategies to create inclusive classrooms where neurodiverse students thrive. It integrates cultural humility with evidence-based practices like positive behavior support, social-emotional learning, and teaching social skills. The session addresses how cultural assumptions shape classroom expectations and provides tools to adapt teaching, discipline, and peer interactions in ways that affirm both neurodiversity and cultural identity.
Neurodiversity and Mental Health: This workshop examines the intersection of neurodiversity and mental health, recognizing how cultural stigma, language barriers, and systemic inequities affect access to care. Participants will learn to identify signs of anxiety, depression, and trauma in neurodiverse individuals while considering the impact of cultural expectations around mental health. Strategies will include building culturally safe spaces, reducing stigma, and offering supports that acknowledge both neurological and cultural differences.
Supporting Transitions: From Childhood to Adolescence and Beyond: This session focuses on key developmental transitions—such as starting school, entering adolescence, and preparing for adulthood—that can be especially complex for neurodiverse individuals. Participants will explore how cultural expectations around independence, family roles, and achievement shape these transitions. Practical strategies will be provided for supporting youth and families as they navigate identity, autonomy, and belonging in ways that honor both neurodiversity and cultural values.
Cross-Cultural Parenting: Proactive and Reactive Strategies Across Cultures: In this workshop, participants will learn how to implement proactive strategies (like setting clear expectations, teaching coping skills, and fostering strengths) and reactive strategies (such as de-escalation, crisis management, and emotional regulation) in ways that respect cultural norms. Emphasis will be placed on recognizing how culture shapes behavioral expectations and discipline styles, and adapting strategies to promote dignity, inclusion, and positive outcomes across diverse families and settings.
Other Topics: In addition to the workshops listed above, tailored sessions can be developed to address employment inclusion for neurodiverse adults, cross-cultural perspectives on disability rights, faith and spirituality in neurodiverse families, and building multicultural peer support networks.
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