The Cost of Masking: Supporting Neurodivergent Learners Needs

The Cost of Masking: Supporting Neurodivergent Learners Needs explores the emotional, behavioral, and communicative toll masking takes on neurodivergent learners. Geared toward speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and special education teachers, this course blends current research with practical application. Participants will learn how masking affects mental health, language development, and classroom participation. The course also provides neuroaffirming strategies to help students reduce masking and express themselves authentically in supportive environments.

Explore Course

This course examines the cost of masking in neurodivergent learners, highlighting its impact on communication, behavior, and mental health. Designed for speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and special education teachers, it offers evidence-based strategies to support authentic expression and reduce the need for masking in educational settings.

Registration to this course includes this free resource bundle: a Safe Space Checklist and Understanding Masking Guide—two printable tools designed to help school-based professionals reflect on their environments and recognize when students may be masking to get through the day.

Presenters

Dr. Destiny Huff
LPC
Dr. Destiny Huff, LPC, is a late-diagnosed Autistic and ADHD military spouse, therapist, and advocate. She empowers families to navigate special education and trains schools on neuroaffirming practices. Serving on the boards of PDA North America and Sistahs with Ausome Children, she champions the rights and well-being of neurodivergent learners.

Learning Objectives

1. Describe the concept of masking and its impact on communication, behavior, and mental health in neurodivergent students.
2. Explain the role of speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and special education teachers in identifying and addressing masking in educational settings.
3. List neuroaffirming strategies that support authentic self-expression and reduce the need for masking.

Agenda

5 minutes	Introduction
10 minutes	What is Masking?
10 minutes	The Impact of Masking
15 minutes	The Role of SLPs and Special Education Teachers
15 minutes	Neuroaffirming Strategies to Reduce Masking
5 minutes	Conclusion & Reflection

Disclosures

Financial Disclosures:	Dr Huff is the owner and sole mental health therapist of HRG Counseling & Supervision, a private practice where individual and family therapy are provided virtually to children, adolescents, and adults. Dr. uff is the owner and sole non-attorney Special Education Advocate of Destiny Huff Consulting, LLC a company that provides advocacy and consulting services to parents of learners in special education. Dr. Huff is receiving compensation for this course.
Non-Financial Disclosures:	Dr. Huff is a non-attorney Special Education Advocate & Neuroaffirming IEP Coach who creates resources shared across platforms. Dr. Huff is a member of professional organizations supporting BIPOC Autistic individuals, Special Education Advocacy, Neurodivergent individuals, and PDA Individuals.
Content Disclosures:	Dr. Huff has no additional content information to disclose.

ASHA

This course is offered for .1 ASHA CEUs, Introductory Level, Professional Area

The Cost of Masking: Supporting Neurodivergent Learners Needs: $29.00
This course examines the emotional, behavioral, and communicative impacts of masking on neurodivergent learners. Designed for SLPs and special education teachers, it combines research and practical strategies to support authentic self-expression, improve mental health, and reduce masking in educational settings. Includes access to the recorded course and optional ASHA reporting.

Add-ons

Neuroaffirming IEPs: Moving Beyond Compliance

$29.00

Explore how to create neuroaffirming IEPs that go beyond compliance to center student identity, autonomy, and strengths. Special Educators (and SLPs) will learn to design goals, supports, and environments that honor neurodivergent communication and regulation. Gain tools to advocate for inclusive, student-centered practices.

Supporting Neurodivergent Kids Through Play & Connection

$7.00

In this insightful episode of Bright Conversations, trauma-certified SLP Polina Shkadron explores how play and relationships can be powerful tools in supporting neurodivergent children in therapy. Register to access the full episode in your dashboard and submit for ASHA CEUs.

Neurodevelopmental Needs in Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders

$29.00

This course highlights the critical role of SLPs in supporting children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD), a condition affecting 2-5% of first graders in the U.S. Explore current multidisciplinary research on neurocognition, self-regulation, and adaptive function, and learn about the neurobehavioral approach, accommodations, and environmental modifications. Gain insights on overcoming challenges faced by caregivers and professionals to improve outcomes. Includes access to the recorded course and optional ASHA reporting.