Connecting brains and hearts: trauma and neurodiversity

This week, Emily Kircher-Morris speaks with Jessica Sinarski, a mental health counselor who merges neuroscience with education and family dynamics. They explore the complex relationship between trauma and neurodivergence, highlighting the critical need for trauma-informed practices and a strengths-based perspective to support neurodivergent people. They explore how confidence and early life experiences shape brain development, as well as the profound impact these factors have on individuals throughout their lives. They talk about creating neurodiversity-friendly and trauma-informed environments within schools, and discuss the often overlooked “hidden meanings” that are crucial to supporting neurodivergent students. All this, concentrated in episode 224.

Takeaways

Understanding the intersectionality between trauma and neurodivergence is crucial to supporting neurodivergent individuals.

Being trauma-sensitive means using awareness of the trauma to act accordingly and respond appropriately.

A strengths-based approach recognizes that no part of the brain is bad and focuses on supporting and celebrating individual strengths.

Schools should strive to affirm neurodiversity and be trauma-informed, incorporating a brain-based perspective and understanding hidden meanings.

Building trust and maintaining trusting relationships is essential to supporting neurodivergent people who have experienced trauma.

To learn more about courses for educators at Neurodiversity University, click the link and contact us via the contact page if you have any questions.

If you see the value in rethinking education and building a stronger classroom, consider joining the Neurodiversity University Educator Hub! This is a group designed for educators, and we will open registration again soon! Sign up to be alerted and join us to learn, share and have fun!

Mental health professionals, get on the list and we'll let you know when we open our next community, the Neurodiversity University Therapist Hub.

Jessica Sinarski, LPCMH, is an author, educator, and founder of BraveBrains. She collaborates with school districts and child welfare agencies around the world, translating neuroscience into actionable actions for children and adults. Jessica ignites both passion and knowledge in audiences through her deeply trauma-informed books, trainings, and resources.

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