In this 1 day workshop, we will unpack how we can practically support neurodiverse tamariki & rangatahi from a nervous system lens, sensory approach, understanding the energy of emotions and knowledge about gut health.

Using the acronym of S.H.I.N.E., this workshop will offer a strengths based approach and practical strategies that you can implement when supporting neurodiverse individuals.

This workshop is suitable for parents, caregivers, teachers, support staff and professionals working with neurodiverse individuals. The strategies will be focused on children & youth, however if you work with adults the interventions can be adapted to suit your client's needs.

Morning tea and lunch will be provided.

A minimum of 15 participants will be needed in order for the event to continue. If we get less than 15 participants, the event will be cancelled and full refunds will be given to participants.

About the presenters:

Andrea Greer is the owner & founder of Nurturing Relationships. She is an award winning Social Worker for innovative practice (2023) and excellence in research (2018). She has a masters in social work with distinction, endorsed in mental health Practice. She is also a certified Synergetic Play Therapist.

Andrea has worked with neurodiverse children & youth for over 17 years and is passionate about using creative & strengths based approaches to support them to thrive. She also has lived experience with whānau members who are neurodivergent. Andrea & her husband have two children aged 8 & 5 and they live in rural Southland.

Toni Pakula is a Registered Health and Nutrition Coach, Certified Safe and Sound Protocol Practitioner, and Trauma-Informed Mental Health Coach. Toni specialises in supporting individuals, including Educators, Whanau, Ākonga, and Tamariki, dealing with Selective Mutism.

Her journey into health and wellness is rooted in her whanau’s experiences with Neurodivergence, Anxiety, and Selective Mutism. Her experiences have instilled in her a profound belief in the transformative power of an integrated, holistic approach to well-being.Years of research have provided her with insights into the intricacies of the nervous system and mental health, particularly gut health.

Toni & her husband reside in the Waikato with their three children.

Wired to Shine: Supporting our neurodivergent ākonga through a polyvagal lens

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