Working with Neurodivergent Young Adults in Times of Change and Transition Workshop with Liz Smith

Autumn brings the start of a new academic year and for many young people, the start of a new chapter of their lives. For young emerging adults who are neurodivergent, the transition between school and “whatever comes next” can have additional complications and implications.

This transition time is also often a flashpoint for family conflict. Many neurodivergent young people will have managed, or even thrived, with the structures of school and home in place. But when they’re expected to manage by themselves, things can fall apart quickly, often baffling their parents, carers and loved ones.

Liz Smith is a neurodivergent therapist, supervisor and trainer who has worked with neurodivergent 16-25 year-olds through transitional times. This short workshop outlines why transitions into adult life can look different for neurodivergent young people and how counsellors, therapists and other supporting professionals can help.

Learning Objective Participants Can Expect From This Event

• Understanding the particular implications and difficulties of transitional times for neurodivergent young people and their families
• Some ways in which counsellors and helping professionals can support neurodivergent young people
• Understanding the unconscious neuronormative expectations placed on neurodivergent young people and families at this time, and the pressures that can put on both ND young adults and their support system.

Who is This Workshop Appropriate For?

• Counsellors, therapists, mental health and other helping professionals, parents/families/carers

How May This Workshop Impact Your Practice?

• Practitioners will become aware of issues affecting this client group and will be able to begin to adapt the support they provide to clients/families.