16 October 2025• byLaura Hellfeld
This isn’t just another course or conference — it’s a radical shift in how we understand PDA and trauma. You’ll walk away with more than knowledge
Event Date:
Oct 16 at 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
The Nurturing Neurodivergence Conference Programme 2025
A Conference hosted by The Nurture Programme,
Book your ticket here
Conference Details
Who is this for?: For those who are involved in the teaching and support of, as well as those living with and caring for neurodivergent pupils, children or adults.
Where will this be held?: Online and Recorded for those who cannot make the live sessions. Recordings will be available to watch for 60 days after the event and usually take 2 weeks to be sent out, as they are professionally edited.
When: 16th & 17th of October 2025 9am-4pm BST.
My Conference Talk
Webinar Title
Hidden Health: How Unrecognised Medical Needs Add to the Trauma of PDAers
Webinar Description
For many PDAers, daily life is shaped not only by their neurodivergence but also by co-occurring health conditions, many of which are unrecognised and unassessed. They experience fatigue, pain, and fluctuating capacity which can deepen trauma when a young person’s experiences are left unsupported. Differences in pain perception and interoception can mean that these needs are harder to identify or to explain to care providers when trying to access support. In school and other settings, requests for breaks or attempts to communicate struggle are often misinterpreted as “not caring” or “not trying hard enough,” often resulting in PDAers being given extra demands or responsibilities. This misunderstanding leads to ongoing struggles that affect learning, relationships, and overall wellbeing.
This session will explore:
- How body-mind health and PDA interconnect
- Why unrecognised co-occurring conditions contribute to trauma
- Practical ways families and practitioners can support young people proactively
- Supportive kits for at home and the school setting
Attendants will also receive two practical handouts:
1. A health-tracking template organised by body systems (e.g., neurological, digestive, musculoskeletal) to help spot patterns and communicate effectively with professionals.
2. A family history organiser to add valuable context to your young person’s healthcare journey.
Last modified: 25 August 2025