Non-traditional evidence based therapeutic approaches with Neurodivergent individuals

Synopsis:

Traditional talk-based therapies can often feel inaccessible, overwhelming, or ineffective for many AuDHD folk—especially children and teens. Factors such as a strong preference for predictability and sameness, difficulty with transitions, emotional intensity, executive functioning differences, sensory sensitivities, and protective reliance on familiar routines or ideas can create significant barriers to engagement. Focussed thinking styles that favour structure, or repetition may also conflict with open-ended verbal therapy approaches. In contrast, neuroaffirming non-traditional therapeutic models that embrace interest-based, movement-rich, and visually supported interventions like LEGO®-based therapy can offer greater accessibility and foster genuine therapeutic connection.

This hands-on workshop (yes you get to play with Lego) explores how these non-traditional, evidence-informed modalities better meet the needs of AuDHD folk. Drawing from lived experience, current clinical practice, and emerging research, we highlight the use of LEGO®-based therapy and SPINS (Special Interests) as tools for building safety, engagement, and communication. These approaches are grounded in trauma-informed, play-based, attachment-informed, and truly and actually neuroaffirming frameworks. Integrating SPINS into therapy significantly improves engagement, emotional regulation, and participation.

Learning outcomes

How to use non-traditional therapeutic approaches in therapy – in this workshop we won’t just be telling you we will be showing you. All participants will get hands on experience in using these non-traditional therapeutic approaches. We will be having lots of fun with Lego!

The reason why non-traditional therapeutic approaches work well with AuDHD’ers.

How to adapt these non-traditional therapeutic approaches to whatever age group you are working with.

How to have fun while being effective and engaging in the therapy room.

Program enquiries

Program Manager c/o MCI Australia

For all questions and enquiries about abstracts, speakers and program information.

	Great Hall
0830-1000	PLENARY SESSION 2 Psychology Across the lifespan Uncover the intricacies of peri-natal and post-natal experiences, the transformative significance of the first 1000 days, and the profound impact of the early years on development. Explore the dynamic fields of geropsychology, educational psychology, and child and adolescent psychology. Join us as we navigate the diverse stages of human life, delving into insights that shape understanding, support, and wellbeing across all ages. Alysha-Leigh Fameli
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1330-1500	SESSION 5 Diversity in psychological practice Traverse through a spectrum of disciplines—organisational, sport, coaching, management, research, teaching, justice, schools, hospitals—each thread interweaving the fabric of diversity. Gain insights into navigating varied contexts, from team dynamics to social justice, while working seamlessly in multidisciplinary teams.
1500-1530	Afternoon tea
1530-1700	SESSION 6 Psychologists are human too Join us for a deeply rejuvenating session, where we address practitioner burnout head-on. Delve into the healing power of the natural environment through a guided meditation, offering support for overworked souls. Celebrate our vibrant AAPi community and its unwavering dedication, embracing the strength of unity. And experience a holistic journey that acknowledges challenges, provides solace, and honours the spirit of togetherness.

	Great Hall
0830-1000	PLENARY SESSION 2 Psychology Across the lifespan Uncover the intricacies of peri-natal and post-natal experiences, the transformative significance of the first 1000 days, and the profound impact of the early years on development. Explore the dynamic fields of geropsychology, educational psychology, and child and adolescent psychology. Join us as we navigate the diverse stages of human life, delving into insights that shape understanding, support, and wellbeing across all ages. Alysha-Leigh Fameli
1000-1030	Morning tea
1030-1200	SESSION 4 Innovation and sustainability in private practice Explore groundbreaking approaches that fuse innovation and sustainability, revolutionising the way practitioners operate. Dive into creative strategies for enhancing client care, streamlining operations, and embracing eco-conscious practices. This session will explore the intersection of progress and longevity in private practice, gaining insights that propel you towards a successful, innovative, and sustainable future.
1200-1330	Lunch
1330-1500	SESSION 5 Diversity in psychological practice Traverse through a spectrum of disciplines—organisational, sport, coaching, management, research, teaching, justice, schools, hospitals—each thread interweaving the fabric of diversity. Gain insights into navigating varied contexts, from team dynamics to social justice, while working seamlessly in multidisciplinary teams.
1500-1530	Afternoon tea
1530-1700	SESSION 6 Psychologists are human too Join us for a deeply rejuvenating session, where we address practitioner burnout head-on. Delve into the healing power of the natural environment through a guided meditation, offering support for overworked souls. Celebrate our vibrant AAPi community and its unwavering dedication, embracing the strength of unity. And experience a holistic journey that acknowledges challenges, provides solace, and honours the spirit of togetherness.

	Great Hall
0830-1000	PLENARY SESSION 2 Psychology Across the lifespan Uncover the intricacies of peri-natal and post-natal experiences, the transformative significance of the first 1000 days, and the profound impact of the early years on development. Explore the dynamic fields of geropsychology, educational psychology, and child and adolescent psychology. Join us as we navigate the diverse stages of human life, delving into insights that shape understanding, support, and wellbeing across all ages. Alysha-Leigh Fameli
1000-1030	Morning tea
1030-1200	SESSION 4 Innovation and sustainability in private practice Explore groundbreaking approaches that fuse innovation and sustainability, revolutionising the way practitioners operate. Dive into creative strategies for enhancing client care, streamlining operations, and embracing eco-conscious practices. This session will explore the intersection of progress and longevity in private practice, gaining insights that propel you towards a successful, innovative, and sustainable future.
1200-1330	Lunch
1330-1500	SESSION 5 Diversity in psychological practice Traverse through a spectrum of disciplines—organisational, sport, coaching, management, research, teaching, justice, schools, hospitals—each thread interweaving the fabric of diversity. Gain insights into navigating varied contexts, from team dynamics to social justice, while working seamlessly in multidisciplinary teams.
1500-1530	Afternoon tea
1530-1700	SESSION 6 Psychologists are human too Join us for a deeply rejuvenating session, where we address practitioner burnout head-on. Delve into the healing power of the natural environment through a guided meditation, offering support for overworked souls. Celebrate our vibrant AAPi community and its unwavering dedication, embracing the strength of unity. And experience a holistic journey that acknowledges challenges, provides solace, and honours the spirit of togetherness.

	Great Hall
0830-1000	PLENARY SESSION 2 Psychology Across the lifespan Uncover the intricacies of peri-natal and post-natal experiences, the transformative significance of the first 1000 days, and the profound impact of the early years on development. Explore the dynamic fields of geropsychology, educational psychology, and child and adolescent psychology. Join us as we navigate the diverse stages of human life, delving into insights that shape understanding, support, and wellbeing across all ages. Alysha-Leigh Fameli
1000-1030	Morning tea
1030-1200	SESSION 4 Innovation and sustainability in private practice Explore groundbreaking approaches that fuse innovation and sustainability, revolutionising the way practitioners operate. Dive into creative strategies for enhancing client care, streamlining operations, and embracing eco-conscious practices. This session will explore the intersection of progress and longevity in private practice, gaining insights that propel you towards a successful, innovative, and sustainable future.
1200-1330	Lunch
1330-1500	SESSION 5 Diversity in psychological practice Traverse through a spectrum of disciplines—organisational, sport, coaching, management, research, teaching, justice, schools, hospitals—each thread interweaving the fabric of diversity. Gain insights into navigating varied contexts, from team dynamics to social justice, while working seamlessly in multidisciplinary teams.
1500-1530	Afternoon tea
1530-1700	SESSION 6 Psychologists are human too Join us for a deeply rejuvenating session, where we address practitioner burnout head-on. Delve into the healing power of the natural environment through a guided meditation, offering support for overworked souls. Celebrate our vibrant AAPi community and its unwavering dedication, embracing the strength of unity. And experience a holistic journey that acknowledges challenges, provides solace, and honours the spirit of togetherness.

Non-traditional evidence based therapeutic approaches with Neurodivergent individuals

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