This workshop explores the spectrum of brain-based differences (BBDs), including ADHD, FASD, and other conditions that may present through a wide range of symptoms. The training provides a research-informed conceptual foundation that connects brain function with behaviour and introduces an evidence-based, best-practice approach to developing appropriate and effective person-specific strategies across a variety of settings.

Designed for both parents and professionals, the content is relevant across a range of disciplines and service systems. Participants will learn to understand and reframe behaviour from a neurobehavioral perspective. They will explore how brain-based differences influence learning, behaviour, and daily functioning, while developing a deeper appreciation for the importance of viewing challenges and strengths within the context of neurodevelopment.

The workshop also promotes a common language to support ongoing collaboration, networking, and shared understanding among those working with neurodivergent individuals across systems. By strengthening this shared framework, participants will be better equipped to develop person-specific accommodations and supports that foster success and positive outcomes at home, at school, in the community, and in professional environments.

Following the workshop, participants will have a clearer understanding of: 

  1. FASD, ADHD, and other brain-based differences as brain-based physical disabilities with behavioural symptoms.
  2. How applying a brain-based approach can contribute to positive outcomes for people with brain-based differences.
  3. Primary, secondary, and tertiary learning and behavioural characteristics commonly associated with brain-based differences, including strengths.
  4. How identifying brain-based differences provides a foundation for developing appropriate and effective accommodations that can help prevent challenging behaviours without limiting or inappropriately enabling.
  5. How well standard behavioural interventions fit ADHD and other brain-based conditions, and why otherwise effective techniques may not always work.
  6. What person-specific accommodations can look like and how they can improve outcomes across settings.

Date: Monday, October 19, 2026
Time: 6 to 7:30 p.m. (Pacific Time)
Session fee: Free
Format: Online via Microsoft Teams

About the facilitator 
Suzanne Emery has a Master's in Leadership of Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner. She is a Certified Facilitator of the FASCETS Neurobehavioral Approach and a FASCETS Program Director. Suzanne lived in Costa Rica for over 20 years, serving at-risk families. She worked as a resident nurse at a children’s home and then as the supervisor of health for a large childcare organization for over 15 years. Suzanne is the founder and lead facilitator of “Created to be Free: Hope for Families Affected by Alcohol,” a project started in 2013.

She leads workshops, provides consulting services, and facilitates family support groups using the FASCETS Neurobehavioral Approach. She also works as a Nurse Practitioner in a pediatric clinic once a week, as well as at another clinic that serves uninsured, immigrant, and unhoused populations. She uses the FASCETS Neurobehavioral Approach in her work at both clinics.

She has a certified therapy dog, Balsam, who helps bring joy and smiles to much of the work she does. She is a single mother of two incredible young men. Both her sons and her father live with FASD and ADHD. She lives in the Portland area.