EXPANDING THE CIRCLE
Inclusive Mindfulness for Diverse Minds & Nervous Systems
Neurodiversity-Affirming Contemplative Clinical Practice for ADHD, Autism & Acquired Brain Injury
Presented by: The Institute for Meditation and Psychotherapy (IMP)
Coordinated and hosted by: Esther Estey, PhD, Rehabilitation Psychologist, RYT-200, and member of the IMP Board of Directors
DATE: Saturday, November 21, 2026
TIME: 12:00–4:00 PM Eastern (9:00 AM–1:00 PM Pacific / 5:00–9:00 PM UK)
DURATION: 4 hours
LOCATION: Online via Zoom
CONTINUING EDUCATION: Optional CE credit available for an additional $50
REFUND POLICY: Refunds up to 7 days before the event
REGISTRATION: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/expanding-the-circle-tickets-2001642021168
ABOUT THE WORKSHOP
As our understanding of neurodiversity continues to evolve, clinicians and mindfulness teachers are increasingly called to offer practices that are accessible, flexible, and responsive to diverse ways of thinking, sensing, attending, processing, and engaging with the world.
This half-day international continuing education workshop explores neurodiversity-affirming contemplative practice for ADHD, autism, and acquired brain injury/TBI, bringing together clinicians, researchers, mindfulness teachers, and individuals with lived experience.
Rather than treating adaptations as exceptions, this workshop invites us to consider how inclusive contemplative care can expand access, reduce harm, and deepen the relevance of mindfulness for the diverse minds and nervous systems we serve.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Participants will explore practical ways to adapt mindfulness- and compassion-based practices while preserving the integrity and therapeutic intention of contemplative care.
– Science-based teaching on neurodiversity, ADHD, autism, and acquired brain injury
– Experiential practices and examples of adapted mindfulness and movement
– Clinical discussion with practical takeaways for therapeutic and teaching settings
– Neurodiversity-affirming principles grounded in accessibility, flexibility, lived experience, and inclusion
Featured Faculty & Presentations
Christoph Spiessens, MA & Liezl Laidlaw, Dip CBT
Neuro-Affirmative Mindfulness Teaching: An Introduction to Adaptations
Tamara Russell, PhD, DClinPsych
Mindfulness for ADHD: Mastering the Art of Failure
Sue Hutton, MSW, RSW
What Autism Can Teach Us About Mindfulness: Neuro-Affirming Adaptations in Practice
Jessie Rain Anne Smith, MA & Kyla Pearce, MPH, PhD, CBIS, RYT
Adapting Mindfulness & Mindful Movement for TBI
Important Information
Date: Saturday, November 21, 2026
Time: 12:00–4:00 PM Eastern (9:00 AM–1:00 PM Pacific / 5:00–9:00 PM UK)
Location: Online via Zoom
Continuing Education: Optional CE credit available for an additional $50
REGISTRATION: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/expanding-the-circle-tickets-2001642021168