I Can’t Hear You Because My T-Shirt is Too Itchy: Understanding Sensory Processing in Neurodivergent Learners

Dr. Matthew Zakreski, The Neurodiversity Collective

Tuesday
March 18, 2025
4:30 pm - 5:30 pm EST

Credits TBD

Intermediate

Many neurodivergent (gifted, Autistic, 2E, ADHD, etc.) people have unique and challenging sensory needs, from lighting to texture to sound, that are different than what neurotypical people present with. Where do these differences come from? And what can we do about them? This presentation will outline the relevant neuropsychological differences between neurotypical and neurodivergent people and how those differences manifest. Then we will talk about ways to manage sensory needs and how to manage them safely.

Learning Objectives

  • Participants will be able to determine the differences between neurodivergent and neurotypical people.
  • Participants will be able to understand the neuroscience behind sensory needs in all people, and how neurodivergent people differ.
  • Participants will review and workshop strategies for helping people meet their sensory needs when it comes to lighting in the community.
  • Participants will practice how the implement sensory-friendly strategies in the community.

Speaker

Matthew Zakreski
Matthew Zakreski
Founder
The Neurodiversity Collective

Matthew "Dr. Matt" Zakreski, PsyD is a professional speaker and clinical psychologist who specializes in working with neurodivergent (gifted, 2e, ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, etc.) people. He has spoken over 600 times all over the world about supporting neurodivergent people in all walks of life, from schools to college to the workplace. Dr. Matt specializes in taking knowledge of the brain, human behavior, and clinical psychology and making that accessible and practical for people to improve their lives. When it comes to working with organizations, Dr. Matt is an expert at helping everyone to grow in a meaningful, authentic way based on skills that stick with you well after he’s left the stage. Everyone deserves to have a better life; the more we know about ourselves and our brains, the better we can meet those goals.

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