Workshop – Understanding Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) from the Inside Out, 3/12/26, 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM ET

As an autistic person, school psychologist, and parent to neurodivergent children – the ‘3’ perspectives of her practice, ‘ND3’ – Jenna brings a 360-degree view of children, families, and systems to her work. After almost 15 years as a school psychologist in public schools, Jenna launched ND3 to be able to offer counseling, consultation and trainings that are uncompromisingly neuro-affirming and neuroscience-informed. Using a rights-based framework, and with a focus on self-discovery and belonging, Jenna draws from the work of activists within the Neurodiversity Movement, up-to-date research, and her extensive professional and personal experience supporting neurodivergent and disabled people. Learn more and get in touch at ND3.org. Outside of work, Jenna thrives when singing, dancing, and eating sweets – ideally all at once, and with her kids.

Rabbi Shoshana Meira Friedman is a late-diagnosed PDA Autistic woman and creator of The PDA Safe Circle®, a transformative online community for PDAers and their loved ones that centers her strengths-based PDA Safe Circle® Approach. Rabbi Shoshana is known for her in-depth, comprehensive content on PDA that helps PDAers of all ages – toddlers through adults – to thrive within the constraints of their vulnerable nervous systems. Before diving into the neurodiversity movement, Rabbi Shoshana was a congregational rabbi and climate activist. Her writing has been widely published, including in The New York Times and Psychotherapy Networker magazine. She is the author of two children’s books. More at rabbishoshana.com and PDASafeCircle.com.

AANE can offer participants a reduced fee or free registration through the Jody Acford Memorial Fund. As long as space remains, no one requesting financial aid will be turned away. To request financial aid, send an email to [email protected]. For example: 

Hello, 

I would like to request financial assistance for (insert full title of group). 

Sincerely, (your name). 

If you are able, please consider donating the cost of an additional registration to support the financial assistance of others.

AANE will refund support group or social activity registration fees in the following circumstances: 

– AANE cancels a group.

– AANE reschedules a group and a registrant can no longer participate. 

– If a registrant requests a refund at least 3 business days before the start date of a support group or social activity.

To request accommodations prior to a group meeting, please email [email protected] with the full name of the group you are attending, including the date and facilitator name when possible. Please describe the accommodations you’re requesting.
 

All groups are online unless noted

Multi-Session – register once for multiple sessions with the same participants in groups or workshops

Single Session – register for one session or event, includes groups, webinars, workshops, or special events

LOCAL [City, State] in front of the event/group name is intended for those living in the vicinity of the indicated area. If LOCAL is not indicated, the event is available to those living anywhere

For the safety and enjoyment of all, individuals who attend AANE groups, activities, and events must follow these guidelines.

AANE recognizes and values diversity in all its forms and expects all members of our community to contribute to an inclusive and welcoming space for everyone. We are committed to fostering an environment where all individuals are treated with dignity and respect. Discrimination, hate speech, harassment, or any behavior that demeans or marginalizes others based on their characteristics, identities, or lived experiences will not be tolerated. Individuals who attend AANE groups, activities, and events must follow these guidelines:

– The information discussed in support groups is considered private and confidential and is not to be shared outside of the support group. 

– All participants at AANE events are expected to respect all people’s characteristics, identities, and lived experiences.

– Speech that demeans or marginalizes others will not be tolerated.

– Participants are expected to remain sober and avoid any impairment due to alcohol or drugs while participating in AANE programs.

AANE reserves the right to deny admission, ask an individual participant to leave, or remove participants from the event/program for inappropriate or disrespectful.

If you are new to Zoom, we suggest that you visit their Help Center before your meeting to familiarize yourself with the platform.

The resources and information shared within AANE support groups are for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Our hope is that these resources will provide you with useful connections as you navigate your journey of discovery and connection. AANE​ makes no warranty as to the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of the information shared within the group.