Neurodiversity 101: Crash Courses

 This class introduces the concepts of masking and camouflaging as  survival strategies used by Neurodivergent people to navigate  neurotypical social environments. Masking is often misunderstood as a  social skill or adaptation—but in reality, it’s a response to a world  that stigmatizes neurodivergence. 

Drawing from my PhD research, I’ll explain how masking is driven by  systemic pressures, not simply individual choice. We will explore the  concept of neurotypical privilege, examining how society is structured  to reward conformity to neurotypical norms.

I will share research on the consequences of both unmasking, and  masking--outlining the toll these behaviors can take on Neurodivergent  individuals. 

Through a variety of participation options (journaling, verbal  conversations in small and large groups, and text chat-based  discussions), attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions,  share their experiences and ideas, and converse with Dr. Beth and other  attendees. 

This class introduces the concepts of masking and camouflaging as  survival strategies used by Neurodivergent people to navigate  neurotypical social environments. Masking is often misunderstood as a  social skill or adaptation—but in reality, it’s a response to a world  that stigmatizes neurodivergence. 

Drawing from my PhD research, I’ll explain how masking is driven by  systemic pressures, not simply individual choice. We will explore the  concept of neurotypical privilege, examining how society is structured  to reward conformity to neurotypical norms.

I will share research on the consequences of both unmasking, and  masking--outlining the toll these behaviors can take on Neurodivergent  individuals. 

Through a variety of participation options (journaling, verbal  conversations in small and large groups, and text chat-based  discussions), attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions,  share their experiences and ideas, and converse with Dr. Beth and other  attendees. 

This practical and empowering workshop explores the complexities of disclosing disability and seeking reasonable adjustments in study and work environments.  This session will unpack the legal rights, social dynamics, and structural barriers involved in navigating access.

We’ll begin by clarifying what “disclosure” means—formally and informally—and discuss why, when, and how people choose to disclose (or not). Drawing on real-world examples and lived experience, we’ll explore the emotional labor, risks, and pressures often associated with disclosure in ableist settings.

Next, we’ll unpack what counts as a reasonable adjustment, what rights and responsibilities are involved, and how to negotiate for support without needing to overexpose personal information.

This interactive workshop explores the unique relationship between executive functioning and big-picture thinking, especially in neurodivergent people who are often deeply creative, analytical, and systems-oriented—but may struggle with getting started, staying on task, or completing everyday demands.

We’ll unpack what executive functioning really is—beyond simple productivity narratives—and explore how task initiation, working memory, planning, and prioritization can become tangled in day-to-day tasks. Many neurodivergent people experience what feels like “analysis paralysis,” because their minds don’t move in straight lines—they map out webs of interconnected consequences, making even small decisions feel high-stakes.

Rather than pathologizing this, we’ll examine how big-picture and systemic thinking can be both a gift and a challenge. We’ll introduce practical tools for task management and time navigation, while acknowledging societal barriers to inclusion.