Course Content:
- Assessing LOSS
- Sensory Stimulation Systems
- Attention Systems
- Memory Functions
- Communication Systems
- The Power of Different
- Why Can't I Be "Normal"
- Neurodiverse Tribes
- Creating a Balanced Brain
- Choice and The Future of Neurodiversity
This is a fifteen-hour course with 13-hours on online education and two hours of training with Dr. Clare Steffen. Neurodiversity occurs in individuals for a multitude of reasons and is a complex picture which can make coaching difficult and challenging. You will have access to Dr. Clare Steffen’s assessment, Limitations of Sensory Systems (LOSS) and learn how to apply it and have a deeper understanding of clients who are neurodiverse. These differences result in an array of strengths and limitations. Many of these limitations are viewed as losses; socially, emotionally, and cognitively, but perhaps there is another way in which they can be viewed. Regardless, the experience of these losses are real for the individual and their families and must be accurately assessed if acceptance is to occur. Once acknowledged, there is an opportunity to reframe these losses as we search for the strengths within the individual. At times, these losses result in brain imbalances, which require attention to re-balance. Understanding brain wiring and in specific the sensory, attention, and memory systems and how they work collectively will allow your coaching to have more depth than the average approach to coaching for disability as compared to ability. We have numerous social examples of individuals who are or were neurodiverse who made great contributions in various fields of intellectual development. Social and cultural changes appear to be creating shifts in brain structure and therefore are changing the terrain of what is considered "normal." The tribal view of groups of diverse individuals who gravitate toward one another for acceptance is activating a social and cultural shift. The approach to coaching must be active as well as proactive, as a stagnant approach will not support the brain differences that are a reality in these individuals. The influences of technology and changes in brain wiring have impacted communication. The melding of diversity within a culture that defines "normal" in a manner that does not fully assimilate these differences can result in individual stress and brain imbalances. Offering techniques to the brain and calm the brain is a necessity if the picture of neurodiversity is to be fully appreciated. Supporting a hopeful future that is not limited and acknowledges choice as a key component assists in creating movement toward acceptance for diversity, appreciation, and acknowledgment of the power of difference.