Embracing Neurodiversity and Inclusion in Coaching and Mentoring

Susan Mackay is an ICF and PAAC Certified Professional Coach, writer, and advocate for neurodiversity and inclusion. With over 20 years of experience in global health and development, she has worked with organizations such as the BBC, WHO, UNICEF, and Gavi. Her late discovery of her own ADHD and other neuro-differences has deeply shaped her approach, moving from “masking and fitting in” to helping others thrive by showing up as they truly are.

Susan now works with leaders, professionals, families, and young people to unlock strengths, reframe challenges, and build inclusive systems where all minds can flourish. She is a Mental Health First Aider, a member of the International Coaching Federation (ICF) Switzerland DEIB working group, and an active contributor to the Neurodiversity Support Network of Switzerland.

Her articles and thought leadership have been published internationally, including by the Institute of Neurodiversity (ION), ICF Switzerland, LSP Magazine, and Acasus. Susan regularly facilitates workshops and webinars on neurodiversity, resilience, and strengths-based coaching, bringing a mix of lived experience, professional expertise, and practical tools. Her coaching style is described as curious, creative, and strengths-focused.

Session Description

In today’s rapidly changing world, mentoring and coaching are no longer one-size-fits-all practices. Increasingly, we recognize the importance of embracing neurodiversity, the natural variations in how people think, learn, and experience the world. This includes individuals with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and other forms of unique brain wiring. When mentors and coaches understand and embrace these differences, they unlock hidden potential, deepen trust, and create truly inclusive developmental relationships.

This one-hour webinar, Embracing Neurodiversity and Inclusion in Coaching and Mentoring, is designed to inspire and equip participants to bring an inclusive lens into their practice. Participants will explore what neurodiversity means in plain language, why it matters in mentoring contexts, and how coaches and mentors can create environments where all minds thrive.

Through practical frameworks, real-life examples, and interactive exercises, participants will leave with:

• A clear understanding of what neurodiversity is and why it matters
• Awareness of common barriers that neurodivergent individuals face in mentoring and coaching relationships
• Simple, effective strategies to foster inclusion and unlock the unique strengths of every mentee

By the end of the session, participants will feel empowered and equipped to make inclusion a natural part of their mentoring practice, taking away at least one actionable step to implement immediately.

What Participants Will Gain

• Understanding of neurodiversity in mentoring and coaching
• Practical strategies to foster inclusion and unlock strengths
• Tools to create safe, curious, and strengths-focused mentoring relationships
• Inspiration to build a more equitable and empowering mentoring culture