1 Hour / 1 CE

On Demand | Self-Paced Professional Training

This on-demand professional training program on Neurodiversity 101: Understanding Neurodiversity is presented by Kati Hajibagheri, BSc, MBBS.

Neurodiversity is the concept that individuals perceive and engage with the world in a multitude of unique ways. It shouldn’t be assumed that there is only one right way of thinking, learning, and behaving, and differences should not be perceived as defects. In the past these conditions were viewed as problems that needed fixing. Thankfully, progressive thinking means that we now focus on celebrating and supporting neurodiversity. The need for understanding around Neurodiversity and inclusivity has never been greater. Neurodivergent individuals, including those with autism, ADHD, dyspraxia and other neurological differences, bring unique perspectives and strengths with them. However, they may also face distinct challenges that require thoughtful strategies to help support them. Neurodiversity can be understood as a natural spectrum of human cognition and a future without labels can lead to greater inclusion, innovation, and understanding.

Through a blend of discussions and practical exercises, participants gain a deeper understanding of neurodiversity and develop actionable strategies for promoting inclusion. 

There are no formal entry requirements for this open programme. This programme is designed for individuals, and professionals who work with people who are neurodiverse. 

Neurodiversity 101: Understanding Neurodiversity is the first session of a 5-part program. The program is stackable, with each course building on the previous one to deepen understanding. However, courses can also be taken independently. 

  1. Neurodiversity 101: Understanding Neurodiversity
    1. Definition: An introduction to neurodiversity, including definitions, diagnostic criteria, assessment methods, and key concepts.
    2. Goal: Provide foundational knowledge on what neurodiversity is, who it includes, and how it impacts individuals and society
  2. Upward Trends in Neurodiversity
    1. Definition: Examining the increasing recognition of neurodiversity, emerging research, environmental trends, and societal shifts.
    2. Goal: Help participants understand why neurodiversity is gaining attention and how it can be leveraged for positive change.
  3. Paradigm Shift: From Individual Focus to Environmental Strengths
    1. Definition: A shift in perspective from focusing on individuals to creating environments that support and elevate neurodiverse individuals
    2. Goal: Highlight how organizations and institutions can benefit from embracing neurodiversity, moving from accommodation to optimization.
  4. Environmental Considerations for Optimizing Support
    1. Definition: Analyzing how various settings (e.g., workplaces, schools, healthcare) can be designed to support neurodiverse individuals.
    2. Goal: Equip organizations with actionable strategies to foster inclusive and effective environments.
  5. Cultural & Communication Considerations: A Strengths-Based Perspective on Resilience
    1. Definition: Exploring how neurodiversity is understood across different cultures and how cultural frameworks influence neurodivergent experiences. Understanding how communication styles differ among neurodiverse individuals and learning strategies to enhance mutual understanding.
    2. Goal: Promote a strengths-based approach to neurodiversity that acknowledges and values cultural diversity and resilience.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to:

  • 1 Describe the concept of neurodiversity and its significance in understanding human cognitive and behavioral differences
  • 2 Describe the diagnostic criteria and assessment methods commonly used to identify neurodivergent conditions
  • 3 Describe how neurodiversity influences individual experiences and societal perspectives on ability, inclusion, and identity

  • Intended Audience

    This open programme is intended for individuals and professionals who work with or support people who are neurodiverse. It is suitable for anyone seeking to better understand and assist neurodiverse individuals in various contexts.

    Examples of Relevant Professionals:
    • Mental Health Professionals
    • Educators
    • Social Workers
    • Speech and Language Therapists
    • Occupational Therapists
    • Support Workers
    • Counsellors
    • Psychologists
    • Youth Workers

  • Experience Level

    This training is appropriate for licensed and pre-licensed mental health professionals at various stages of familiarity with neurodiversity.

    • Beginner: Participants new to neurodiversity concepts who seek foundational knowledge about definitions, diagnostic criteria, and the significance of neurodiversity in mental health practice.

    • Intermediate: Participants with some prior exposure to neurodiversity who wish to deepen their understanding of assessment methods, societal perspectives, and strategies for supporting neurodivergent individuals.

  • Practice Setting

    Participants practice in inclusive, person-centered environments designed to support neurodivergent individuals and reduce barriers to participation. Work focuses on adapting environments, policies, and communication to leverage strengths, delivered in in-person, hybrid, or remote formats. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and families is common.

    Examples of Practice Settings:
    • Schools and colleges
    • Community mental health centers
    • Hospitals and outpatient clinics
    • Private practice and counseling centers
    • Speech and occupational therapy clinics
    • Residential and supported living services
    • Youth centers and after-school programs
    • Social services agencies
    • Workplace HR/D&I programs
    • Telehealth and online services
Presented By

Kati Hajibagheri, BSc, MBBS

Kati Hajibagheri, BSc, MBBS is a consultant community paediatrician at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital in Central London, and has a special interest in Child development. She is currently the Autism lead for the Cheyne Child development service.

Kati graduated from Imperial College London Medical School in 2002. She completed 10 years of Paediatric training in London and obtained Membership of the Royal college of Paediatrics before becoming a Consultant at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital in 2012. She has taught and organised many training events including teaching for Paediatric membership exams, communication skills, child development courses, chid health promotion courses, child public health and advocacy. She favours using the multi-disciplinary approach in order to receive a more holistic view of a child's strengths, differences and difficulties.

CE Sponsorship Information

Palo Alto University, Continuing & Professional Studies (CONCEPT) is approved by, recognized by, or maintains sponsorship provider status with the following boards and agencies. We maintain responsibility for all content in our CE/CPD programs. For more information, visit here. 


  1. American Psychological Association (APA): Approved sponsor of continuing education for psychologists.

  2. Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB): Approved continuing education provider (ACE program, Provider #1480), 11/22/2023–11/22/2026.

  3. Canadian Psychological Association (CPA): Approved to sponsor continuing education for psychologists.

  4. National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC): Approved Continuing Education Provider (ACEP No. 7190).


Sponsorship Approval Statements

Palo Alto University, Continuing and Professional Studies (CONCEPT) is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. Palo Alto University, Continuing and Professional Studies (CONCEPT), is approved by the Canadian Psychological Association to offer continuing education for psychologists. Palo Alto University, Continuing and Professional Studies (CONCEPT) has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7190. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. Palo Alto University, #1480, is approved to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Organizations, not individual courses, are approved as ACE providers. State and provincial regulatory boards have the final authority to determine whether an individual course may be accepted for continuing education credit. Palo Alto University maintains responsibility for this course. ACE provider approval period 11/22/23-11/22/26. Social workers completing this course receive (clinical or social work ethics) continuing education credits. Continuing and Professional Studies, Palo Alto University, is recognized by the New York State Education Department's State Board for Psychology as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed psychologists #PSY-0103. Palo Alto University, Continuing and Professional Studies (CONCEPT) is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs. Palo Alto University, Continuing & Professional Studies (CONCEPT), is recognized by the New York State Education Department's State Board for Social Work as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed social workers #SW-0356. Palo Alto University, Continuing and Professional Studies, is recognized by the New York State Education Department’s State Board for Mental Health Practitioners as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed mental health counselors. #MHC-0073.