Neurodivergent Learners & Trauma: Relationship-Based Strategies

Explore strength-based approaches for autistic learners and therapeutic relationship strategies for working with challenging trauma clients. *THIS EVENT HAS BOTH IN-PERSON AND VIRTUAL ATTENDANCE OPTIONS* Welcome to The Western Canadian Mental Health & Education Summit: Trauma, High-Risk, Self-Harming Behaviours, Neurodiversity, FASD, Attachment & Indigenous Perspectives ______ Education and Clinical Professionals: All education and mental health or healthcare professionals who work with children or youth including, but not limited to K–12 Classroom Teachers, School Counsellors, Learning Assistance/Resource Teachers, School Administrators, School Paraprofessionals including Special Education Assistants, Classroom Assistants and Childcare Workers • All other professionals who support behavioural challenges and complex learning needs including but not limited to: Nurses, Social Workers, Psychologists, Clinical Counsellors, Family Therapists, Occupational Therapists, Speech Language Pathologists, Addiction Counsellors, Youth Workers, Mental Health Workers, Probation Officers and Community Police Officers. ______ Day Two – December 8, 2026 3. Supporting Neurodivergent Learners: Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder Through a Strength-Based Lens Presented by Denise Nowicki, Ph.D., B.Ed., B.Sc. 8:30am - 4:00pm December 8, 2026 WORKSHOP DESCRIPTION Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental difference that influences how individuals experience, process, and interact with the world around them. While autistic individuals possess strengths, talents, and unique perspectives, they are often misunderstood in educational and counselling settings. Behaviours that may appear oppositional, withdrawn, rigid, or socially inappropriate are frequently rooted in differences in communication, sensory processing, emotional regulation, executive functioning, and social understanding rather than a lack of motivation or willingness. This engaging and practical workshop helps educators and counsellors move beyond stereotypes and develop a deeper understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder through a strengths-based, neurodiversity-affirming lens. Participants will learn to recognize common indicators of ASD, understand how autism may present differently across individuals and age groups, and explore practical strategies that promote inclusion, belonging, emotional well-being, and success. Through interactive activities, case studies, simulations, and reflective discussions, attendees will gain tools to better support autistic students and clients while fostering compassionate, meaningful relationships. 4. Therapeutic Relationship Strategies to Treat Challenging Trauma Clients Presented by Robert T. Muller, Ph.D., C. Psych. 8:30am - 4:00pm December 8, 2026 WORKSHOP DESCRIPTON This practical workshop, led by Dr. Robert T. Muller, author of psychotherapy bestsellers, “Trauma & the Struggle to Open Up,” as well as “Trauma & the Avoidant Client” , builds our understanding of the therapeutic relationship with challenging trauma clients. As therapists, we try to maintain a strong therapeutic relationship, but this is easier said than done. Drawing on attachment theory and research, and using a relational, integrative approach, the workshop follows the ups and downs of the therapy relationship in trauma work. We look at choices therapists make in navigating the process, examining how they affect outcome. Specifically, we look at relationship patterns in trauma work, and how these can lead to troubling therapist-client enactments. When left unchecked, such patterns lead to ruptures in the relationship. In trauma work, how do we repair a ruptured alliance? And how can we help clients grow from the experience? This workshop looks at such issues in detail. Theory is complemented by case examples and therapy segments. We draw particularly from Dr. Muller’s book, Trauma and the Struggle to Open Up, winner of the 2019 ISSTD award for the year’s best written work on trauma.