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  • Therapist Workshop
  • 1.5 NBCC Hours
  • In person & virtual

Join us for an evening of networking & continuing education

Local Foreigner: The Trauma of Living in a Neurotypical World

Presented by: David Meer M.C., LPC & Samantha Pieknik, Psy.D. 

May 7, 2026
5:15pm - 6:00pm Networking Social
6:00pm - 7:30pm CE Event (AZ Time)

Local Foreigner: The Trauma of Living in a Neurotypical World explores the cumulative psychological impact of masking, sensory overwhelm, social marginalization, and systemic invalidation experienced by autistic and neurodivergent individuals. Through the narrative of “Alex,” participants examine autistic burnout, fawning, perfectionism, exploitation in relationships, misdiagnosis, and healthcare barriers, including the double and triple empathy problems.
This training equips clinicians with neurodiversity-affirming, trauma-informed strategies to reduce masking, support authentic self-expression, strengthen boundaries, and implement meaningful accommodations across therapeutic settings. Participants will leave with practical tools to promote self-advocacy, unmasking, and systemic change.

About this training

Upon completion of the training, participants will be able to:

  • Understand the Unique Challenges of Living in a Neurotypical World - Analyze how societal expectations and lack of accommodations contribute to trauma and adverse outcomes for neurodivergent individuals.
  • Implement Neurodiversity-Affirming and Trauma-Informed Practices - Integrate therapeutic approaches that validate and support neurodivergent experiences, focusing on reducing masking behaviors and fostering self-acceptance.
  • Identify and Address Barriers to Effective Therapy - Recognize common barriers, such as communication mismatches and healthcare avoidance, and design therapeutic strategies that accommodate sensory, cognitive, and emotional needs.

Learning Objectives

LK Institute has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7464. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. LK Institute is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.

This program qualifies for 1.5 NBCC hours. 

Continuing Education credits

All training fees are non-refundable. For a comprehensive list of our training policies and disability accommodations, please review our training policies HERE.

register here

Limited in-person spots available

$20

Registration Open Now!

LK Institute has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7464. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. LK Institute is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.

This program qualifies for 1.5 NBCC hours. 

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