Speaking and Workshops

Most Requested Workshop Topics

Understanding and Supporting Neurodiverse Learners

(ADHD, Learning Differences, and Anxiety)
Length: 1.5–3 hours

This session helps educators recognize the neurological underpinnings of attention and regulation challenges, offering classroom-tested strategies to foster engagement, reduce behavior issues, and strengthen executive function skills.
Participants learn how to build structure and flexibility into lessons, use language that promotes regulation, and reduce shame and frustration cycles for neurodivergent students.

AI, Technology, and Mental Health: What Every Educator and Parent Should Know

Length: 1.5–3 hours

Developed as part of Dr. Summerhill’s postgraduate work at NYU, this presentation explores how artificial intelligence and technology use are shaping student mental health, attention, and identity.
We’ll cover both risks—such as technology dependency, anxiety amplification, and misinformation—and opportunities, including AI-assisted learning and emotional regulation tools.
Attendees will leave with frameworks to help students (and themselves) navigate these tools confidently and ethically.

Calm Under Pressure: Overcoming Test-Taking Anxiety with Science and Strategy

Length: 1 hour

This workshop helps students and educators understand how test-taking anxiety affects the brain and nervous system—and how to respond effectively under pressure.
Grounded in neuroscience, learning science, and evidence-based anxiety interventions, participants learn practical strategies for reducing panic, improving focus, and recovering quickly when stress spikes – strategies they can apply immediately in academic settings.

Parent & Community Workshops

Anxiety Demystified: A Crash Course in Coping for Parents of Children with Learning Differences

Length: 1.5–3 hours
Topics include:

• How anxiety affects the ADHD and dyslexic brain

• Emotion regulation strategies for kids and teens

• The role of sleep and routine in managing anxiety

• Self-care tools for overwhelmed parents

Adoptive Minds: Parenting Adopted Children with ADHD

Length: 1.5–3 hours
Topics include:

• How trauma, ADHD, and adoption intersect in the nervous system

• Why traditional behavior tools often backfire—and what to do instead

• Co-regulation strategies that calm chaos and strengthen connection

• How to use “re-dos” and repair to build trust and reduce shame

Self-Compassion for ADHD: Evidence-Based Tools

Length: 1.5–3 hours
Topics include:

• Executive function challenges and emotional overwhelm

• How self-compassion reduces shame and builds resilience

• Hands-on practices to boost focus, patience, and confidence

Process on Paper®: The Science of Writing to Heal

Length: 1.5–3 hours
Topics include:

• How handwriting and expressive writing calm the nervous system

• The neuroscience of writing for emotional integration and focus

• Guided journaling tools to process anxiety, grief, and trauma safely

• Trauma-informed aftercare rituals that promote healing and resilience

Additional Talks Include:

• • Exploring Birth Countries: The Mental Health Implications of Heritage Travel for Children/Adolescents Adopted Internationally
  • From Escalation to Engagement: Trauma-Responsive Teaching Strategies