Speaker Series
Latest Events
Executive Function Through a Neurodevelopmental Lens: Integrating Bottom-Up and Top-Down Supports with Alisha Hagelberg, M.A.T.
May 22, 2026 at 12 p.m. ET
This session examines executive function through a neurodevelopmental lens, highlighting the role of the nervous system in shaping behavior, attention, and self-management. Grounded in the Neurosequential Model of Bruce D. Perry, the presentation emphasizes the importance of supporting regulation and connection (bottom-up) before introducing traditional executive function strategies (top-down).
Using the Regulate, Relate, Reason framework, attendees will first explore practical, brain-based strategies to support nervous system regulation and strengthen relationships as a foundation for learning. The session will then build into effective, evidence-informed executive function supports—including planning, organization, task initiation, and time management—adapted for real-world use at home.
Participants will leave with a cohesive, strength-based approach that integrates neuroscience with practical tools, allowing them to more effectively support children and adolescents in developing executive function skills.
Alisha Hagelberg, M.A.T., is a doctoral student at Elmbridge University (formerly Bridges Graduate School of Cognitive Diversity in Education) and the founder of Cultivating Gifted Kids. As an executive function coach, she works directly with middle-school, high-school, and early-college students to convert strengths into workable systems for planning, time management, task initiation, study strategies, and follow-through.
Previous Events
Understanding and Parenting Demand-Avoidant Children by Maratea Cantarella, LMSW
Parenting a demand-avoidant child can be both confusing and exhausting. Even minor requests can trigger significant distress or shutdown. Between home and school, children encounter hundreds of demands each, and without realizing it, parents and teachers may inadvertently exceed a child’s capacity to cope, leading to resistance, even around preferred activities.
This presentation will outline key characteristics of demand avoidance and introduce practical, low-demand parenting strategies, including increasing “demand awareness” and using communication approaches that reduce a child’s overall demand load.
Maratea Cantarella, LMSW is a social worker providing clinical and parent coaching services through the clinical practice of Melissa Sornik, LCSW PLLC, and is also a candidate at the National Institute for the Psychotherapies. She works primarily with parents of children who are gifted, twice exceptional, and neurodivergent.
Misdiagnosis & Misunderstanding: 2e/HSPs by Dr. Sandra Clifton, Ed.D., BCET, PCC, SLDI
January 14, 2026, 12 p.m. ET
The Power of Co-Regulation in Neurodiverse Parenting
Ali Heitin, M.S., CCC-SLP, ADHD-RSP, ATACP
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Bridging the Gap: Talking to Our Kids About Mental Health
Francesca Reicherter, MACLP, MS
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A Game-Based Approach to Connection and Socioemotional Skill Building
Dr. Michael Fu
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“Trying to Fill the Black Hole: How to Parent a Gifted Child”
Matthew “Dr. Matt” Zakreski, PsyD
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"Nothing About Us Without Us: Three Attorneys With Disabilities Share Their Stories"
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Top 10 Tips for the Transition to College
Cindy Palmer, MA
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"The Future of Navigating Digital Spaces"
Solomon Scherban, cofounder of Pixel Health
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Supporting Your Child with Polyvagal Theory and The Safe and Sound Protocol
Stephanie Grayson, LCSW
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“Working with 2e/LGBTQ+ Youth”
Julia Rutkovsky, LCSW
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Using AI To Help Your Bright Child Achieve & Feel Good
Sam Young, M.Ed.
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The Sensitive-Gifted Connection: Nurturing Your Unique Child with author Melissa Schwartz
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The Power of Meaningful Relationships and Mentorship for the 2e Population
Dr. Amy Clark
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Tech and 2e: What Parents Need To Know
Melissa Sornik, LCSW
Ashley Bove, LMSW
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Unraveling the Rumored Link Between Neurodivergence and Mental Illness
Matthew “Dr. Matt” Zakreski, PsyD
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"Transition Planning For When Your Child Turns 18"
Patricia A. Craig, Esq.
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"Helping Youth Unplug: Internet, Technology and Screen Addiction”
Dr. Michael Fraser
"Sibling Relationships: Raising Neurodivergent AND Neurotypical Kids"
Ashley Bove, LMSW
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"Strategically Supporting Executive Functioning at Home"
Dr. Stephanie Phekoo
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“Setting Limits and Boundaries with your 2e Child"
Melissa Sornik, LCSW
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FlexSchool is an accredited private school for gifted and twice-exceptional (2e) learners, providing personalized education and meaningful support for students in grades K–12.