Neurodivergent clients often face unique challenges related to food, eating environments, sensory experiences, and communication. Yet too often, these challenges are misunderstood—or worse, pathologized. This session reframes the conversation around neurodiversity through a strength-based lens, exploring practical strategies for nutrition professionals to connect meaningfully and effectively with clients whose brains work differently.  
 
Participants will learn how to identify common traits of neurodivergent individuals—including those with autism, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), sensory processing differences, and other cognitive styles—and how to tailor counseling approach accordingly. From intake forms to meal planning to communication cues, this session will highlight ways to create a truly inclusive practice that supports autonomy, dignity, and joy in eating.  
 
Registered dietitians and licensed social workers will explore how coordinated approaches to nutrition care, communication, and environmental supports can help neurodivergent clients experience greater autonomy, reduce mealtime stress, and more develop more positive relationships with food.  This session is ideal for clinicians practicing pediatrics, eating disorders, GI health, mental health, and general private practice. Participants will leave with real tools—and maybe a few laughs—to assist clients in eating happy, no matter how their brains are wired. 
 

This is not a webinar or course for purchase - this is a module for credit claiming for our 2026 Spring Symposium attendees and cannot be purchased or taken by non-attendees. These sessions are exclusive to our Symposium; however, the topics may be revisited in the future in the form of a webinar or self-study course.