Presenters: Steven Martel, Psy.D., and Sara Sanders Gardner, Bellevue College

This workshop provides practical applications reflecting the conference theme of supporting the well-being of Neurodivergent college students. Lessons learned from the Neurodiversity Navigators program at Bellevue College in Washington State, now in its fourteenth year serving over 300 students in tiered services, will inform the conversation as the neurodivergent presenters discuss research-based and strengths-based models used in the program, as well as at the College overall, and the impact of these practices on the students, their families, and on campus culture. The discussion of the College’s wraparound approach will support participants in applying workshop practices in various areas of their work.

We will discuss the importance of identity development as a foundation for the Neurodivergent student’s healthy educational journey, and our scaffolded approach, beginning the Summer prior to the student’s first year. Participants will come away with knowledge of how to weave Positive Psychology into college courses, one-on-one meetings with students, and more. They will learn the power of Collaborative Problem SolvingTM and the role that it plays in Executive Functioning, self-regulation, and motivation. We will explore Counseling Center Best Practices as well as how to respond to conduct and Title IX complaints, including using developmentally based social justice responses when appropriate.

Everyone will benefit from attending this session.

Outcomes
After attending this workshop, regarding Neurodivergent college students, participants will be able to:

• Explain the importance of identity development
• Describe research-based supports that improve well-being, increase cognitive flexibility, frustration tolerance, and more
• Summarize Best Practices in Counseling
• Describe a social-justice, developmental approach to conduct and Title IX complaints