Understanding Neurodiversity through a Social Justice Lens

Doctorate in Counseling Psychology Program 5th Annual Diversity Conference

Date: Friday, April 4th, 2025

Location: Hybrid (please see details)

• CEs are pending and under review!

Welcome to the Doctorate in Counseling Psychology Program 5th Annual Diversity Conference,

Join us for a day filled with insightful discussions, engaging presentations, and networking opportunities. This event aims to celebrate and promote diversity in the field of counseling psychology. This year's event is focused on "Understanding Neurodiversity through a Social Justice Lens."

Neurodiversity refers to the natural variation in human brain function and behavior, encompassing differences such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, Tourette syndrome, and other neurodevelopmental profiles. Rather than viewing these differences as deficits, the neurodiversity paradigm recognizes them as part of human diversity. Grounded in psychological science, this conference explores the evolving understanding of neurodiversity through a biopsychosocial-cultural framework. Presentations will examine the neurobiological foundations of ADHD, diagnostic disparities, and the influence of epigenetic and environmental factors on diverse populations. Additionally, the shift from traditional deficit-based models to neurodiversity-affirming practices in psychological assessment and treatment will be highlighted, emphasizing strengths-based approaches and culturally responsive care. The conference will also explore the broader neurodiversity movement, including advocacy efforts, and self-advocate perspectives to promote inclusion in education, clinical practice, and workplace settings. Through case examples, evidence-based strategies and interactive discussions, attendees will gain insight into fostering equitable access to support and celebrating the unique strengths of neurodivergent individuals.

Whether you're a student or professional, this conference offers something for you. Do not miss this opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and expand your knowledge. We look forward to seeing you there!

Info: Dr. Nouriman Ghahary, Associate Professor and Director of Clinical Training, Felician University, & Talin Araian, BA, Doctoral student, Felician University, will welcome attendees. Dr. Tara Kent, Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences, Felician University, will offer opening remarks.

Info: Intersectionality and ADHD: Conceptualization, Assessment, and Intervention within a Biopsychosocial-Culturally Informed Framework.” This presentation explores the complex interplay of biological, psychological, social, and cultural factors in Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). It begins by examining the neurobiological underpinnings of ADHD, including brain regions, neurotransmitter systems, and various clinical presentations. This foundation helps to better understand the diverse ways ADHD can manifest. The presentation then delves into the critical issue of diagnostic disparities in ADHD. It identifies groups at risk for both under and over-diagnosis, analyzes the factors contributing to these disparities, and discusses the potential consequences of misdiagnosis on individuals' well-being. Building on this, it explores the evolving landscape of ADHD, analyzing prevalence trends and discussing how epigenetic and environmental factors can influence the presentation.

Info: The autism community has been quickly evolving over recent years to shift away from traditional medical model conceptualizations of autism spectrum to more autism and neuroinclusive conceptualizations. This presentation will review recent changes in neurodiversity-affirming practices that can be applied in research, clinical assessment, and therapy settings. Examination of the current language used, shifting away from disorder-centric conceptualizations to more affirming and strength-based approaches, will be explored. Concrete strategies to evaluate approaches to practice from the first contact to intake, to feedback to develop more neurodiversity-affirming strategies to help remove barriers for autistic individuals will be identified. Case examples will be provided. Additional resources for further learning and self-study will be provided. Participants will receive the opportunity for questions and answers at the conclusion of the presentation.

Info: Presenters- Talin Araian, BA, Bianca Serrano, BA, Elizabeth Sisto, BA, Julia Rinaldi, BA, Cristian Morillo, BA, Melanie Farfan, BA

Info: Understanding evolving perspectives on neurodiversity. Moderator: Danial Mahoney, Ed.D., Professor, Director of Graduate Psychology, Felician University. Presenters: Yeasmin Ali, BA, Cristian Morillo, BA, Debbie Padilla, MA, Diana Spieker, MA, LPC, Michele Ventola, BA, Nadege Napoleon, MA, Giovanna Gagliardi, BA, Christian Muriel, MA, LAC, Aurora Regondola, MA, LAC

Info: Nouriman Ghahary, Ph.D., LPC, is the Director of Clinical Training and Associate Professor in the Doctorate in Counseling Psychology Program, Felician University, and the faculty organizer for the Diversity Conference.

Host or Publisher Felician University Doctoral Program in Counseling Psychology