🔍 What is this seminar?

How can we, as professionals, meaningfully support children with neurodiversity (ASD), in a way that honors their uniqueness, neurobiological reality, and dignity?

The Autism Matters: Kids Workshop – Greece is a four-part, interactive educational seminar presented for the 1st time in Greece  that bridges modern scientific knowledge with practical application.
Its aim is to enhance clinical understanding and equip therapists and mental health professionals with neuro-informed & relationship-based εργαλεία, which support the development, regulation, participation and well-being of children with neurodiversity.

The connection is made  neuroscience, sensory processing, co-regulation, movement, (motor planning), gut-brain-immune axis and practical strategies — in a way that is applicable to clinical, school, and family daily life.

🔑 The 4 Basic Pillars of Education

1️⃣ Scientific Summary of ASD: Neurodevelopment, Epigenetics & the Gut-Brain-Immune Connection

A modern, holistic understanding of autism through the lens of neurodevelopmental science.
We will explore:
• how neurodevelopment, genetic & epigenetic factors influence development
• the gut-brain-immune axis and its impact on behaviors, regulation, and well-being
• how these translate into supportive, dignified intervention practices

2️⃣ Relational Neuroscience & Co-Regulation

The power of relationship as a therapeutic tool.
We will delve into:
• neuroscience of connection, security and attunement
• co-regulation practices to support emotional & nervous stability
• strategies for cultivating trust, acceptance, inclusion and participation

3️⃣ Sensory Processing & Individual Experiences

A neuroaffirming look at sensory experience as part of identity.
We will recognize:
• sensory peculiarities as a source of information and not a "problem to be corrected"
• personalized sensory needs and preferences
• ways to create an environment that respects the nervous system and reduces stress load

4️⃣ Movement & Motor Planning Through a Strengths-Based Lens

The body as a fundamental bridge for development, communication & connection.
We will explore:
• variety of motor profiles and their role in regulation, functionality & participation
• practical movement-based approaches that enhance agency & autonomy
• ways to support motor planning with respect for diversity and the child's body

✅ What you will learn and be able to apply

Upon completion of the workshop, you will be able to:

📌 You understand in depth the neurobiological and sensory basis of neurodiversity (ASD)
📌 You apply relationship-based & co-regulation strategies in a therapeutic context
📌 Recognize stress load & adapt supportive environments
📌 You use movement & motor-based practices for regulation, participation & autonomy
📌 You connect scientific knowledge with practice in personalized interventions
📌 You support children and families with dignity, respect & a neuroaffirming approach

📂 What does it include?

🎥 Presentations & discussion
🧠 Case examples & reflection
🧰 Relationship Matters Certification 
🤝 Interpretation from English to Greek Language

👥 Addressed to

The seminar is designed for professionals working with children with neurodiversity:

• Occupational therapists
• Speech therapists
• Physiotherapists
• Psychologists and Mental Health Counselors
• Intervention specialists & other child therapists

🗓️ Dates & Information

May 2026
📍 9, 10, 16 & 17 May
⏰ Hours: 18:00 PM – 21:00 PM (Greece) / 08:00 AM – 11:00 AM (Pacific)
📌 Format: Online Zoom