Parenting On A Different Path: An Event Supporting Mental Health In Neurodiverse Families
Parenting a child with disabilities or neurodiverse needs is a unique and rewarding experience. But it can also bring moments of overwhelm, isolation, and tremendous strain on mental health. Our complimentary event, Parenting On A Different Path, is designed to create a safe, supportive space for parents and caregivers navigating these challenges, a place where you can feel seen, heard, and understood.
This virtual event offers not only practical strategies for self-care but also an opportunity to connect with other parents who truly get it. Through expert guidance and personal storytelling, you'll walk away feeling less alone and more equipped to care for your mental well-being.
What to Expect.
- Engaging, heartfelt talks from esteemed speakers in the neurodiverse parenting community.
- Actionable strategies to manage stress, build supportive networks, and prioritize self-care.
- Moments of connection through shared stories and experiences.
- Exciting giveaways and prize draws to brighten your day!
Featured Speakers.
- Fabiana Bacchini: Parent, advocate, speaker, and author focused on resilience in parenting.
- Kate Robson: Family support expert with personal insights into neurodiverse parenting.
- Lesley Donaldson: Parenting coach and storyteller bringing solace through understanding.
- Jennifer Nunes: Expert in self-care strategies and building connections among parents.
Who Should Attend?
This event is for parents and caregivers of children with disabilities or neurodiverse needs who are seeking resources, community, and support for their own mental health. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed or simply looking for understanding and guidance, this event is for you.
Why Attend?
- Rediscover Self-Care: Learn practical ways to prioritize your well-being without guilt.
- Prioritize Mental Health: Discover different strategies to cope.
- Build Community: Engage with parents who truly understand your experiences.
- Feel Empowered: Leave the event with resources, encouragement, and hope.
Agenda Coming Soon.
Speakers.
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Fabiana
BacchiniFabiana is a mother, advocate, and storyteller who has dedicated her journey to supporting families of preterm babies. As the Executive Director of the Canadian Premature Babies Foundation (CPBF), she uses her own experience to connect with and empower parents facing the challenges of the NICU and beyond.
When her surviving son was later diagnosed with cerebral palsy, Fabiana’s role as a mother and advocate deepened. She understands the fears, the questions, and the hope that come with raising a child with complex needs. Through her work, she shares her story to remind parents that they are not alone. She believes that by supporting each other and working together, we can not only survive but thrive.
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Lesley
DonaldsonLesley Donaldson is a proud mother to a micro-preemie with special needs, frequently companionable wife, Canadian Registered Nurse and born again writer. Her first book is a work of non-fiction. "Growing a Rainbow: The Premature Journey of a Two Pound Hero" is a love story that resonates with all parents about a boy born three months early who weighed less than a pair of shoes. -
Jennifer
Nunes, BSW, MSW, RSWJennifer Nunes BA (hons), BSW, MSW, RSW, is a Registered Social Worker having graduated from McMaster University and University of Toronto’s Factor Inwentash’s School of Social Work. For over 10 years she has worked with clients assessing and treating symptoms of anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, caregiver stress, relationship issues, parenting strategies and more within hospital, education and community based settings. Jennifer believes in using a flexible approach to meet the unique needs of each client.
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Kate
RobsonKate Robson is a Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, Ontario. Inspired by her own experiences with her children in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, she worked with babies, parents, and families for more than 12 years as a NICU Family Support Specialist. She’s travelled all over the world educating parents and clinicians about family centred care and trauma informed care practices. Her workshops focus on cultivating attachment in relationships and creating emotion-friendly homes and workplaces.In her private practice she supports individuals and couples experiencing infertility, high risk pregnancies, NICU hospitalizations, and bereavement. She helps manage Canada's largest support community for NICU families. She has degrees from McGill University and OISE/UT, completed her psychotherapy training at the Toronto Institute for Relational Psychotherapy, and has also studied modalities such as ACT, the Internal Family Systems Model, EMDR, PACT and Somatic Embodiment. Her first book, Something to Hold Onto, will be published by Simon and Schuster in early 2026.