))
Episode 56: Inclusive Spaces with Nikki Smit
Manage episode 418690131 series 2982251
Content provided by Lisa Partridge. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Lisa Partridge or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://ppacc.player.fm/legal.
This is for you if you would like to ensure the spaces and meetings you facilitate and lead allow all voices to be heard. It highlights the needs of the neurodiverse community.
About our guest:
Nikki Smit is a neurodivergent occupational therapist with over 13 years’ experience, dedicated to inclusion and trauma-sensitive care. With a deep passion for demystifying neurodiversity and the nervous system. In her business, Project Play, she offers therapy, coaching, and advocacy for individuals of all ages. Nikki extends her expertise through workshops and consultation services tailored for a wide range of organisations. Her own neurodivergent experiences enrich her compassionate approach.
Here are just a couple of topics we discussed:
Understanding Neurodiversity: Nikki began by explaining the concept of
neurodiversity, emphasizing that everyone has unique neurotypes, making the world inherently neurodiverse. She highlighted the importance of recognizing
neurodivergence, which includes conditions like autism, ADHD, and dyslexia, under a strengths-based approach rather than a deficit-focused one.
Creating Inclusive Spaces: The conversation delved into practical strategies for
creating environments where everyone, including neurodivergent individuals, can
thrive. This includes understanding sensory needs, communication preferences, and the importance of a supportive community.
Nikki provides valuable tools and techniques for individuals and organizations to
support neurodivergent colleagues and friends, such as learning from neurodivergent communities, using a nervous system lens to understand interactions, and being open to having conversations about individual needs.
Timestamps:
[00:02:46] Creating Inclusive Spaces
[00:03:55] Understanding Neurodivergence
[00:08:01] Nikki’s Personal Insights on Neurodivergence
[00:15:41] Language and Communication in Neurodivergence
[00:17:11] Nervous System Regulation
[00:21:05] Strategies: Creating Supportive Environments
[00:24:52] Inclusive Language and Sensory Needs
[00:30:23] Practical and Supportive Tools and Techniques
Recommended Reading:
Mitchell, P., Sheppard, E., and Cassidy, S. (2021). Autism and the double empathy
problem: Implications for development and mental health. British Journal of
Developmental Psychology, 39(1), 1-18
Connect with Nikki:
Website: http://www.projectplay.sg/
Instagram: @nikkismittherapy
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikki-smit-572087b8/
Connect with Lisa:
Website: https://www.sixcomms.org/
Email: [email protected]
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisasing/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sixcomms_podcast/
Intro VO: Edric Poon
Podcast: Edric Poon In Company (EP.IC podcast)
IG: @Epicpodcasting
LinkedIn: edricpoon
Website: https://kaleoscopic.com/
77 episodes
Share
