MURFREESBORO, TN (WGNS) - Murfreesboro families looking for guidance and encouragement will have a chance to gather for a free, neurodiversity‑affirming workshop titled “How Do I Support My Neurodivergent Child?” on Monday, February 16, from 11 a.m. to noon. The event will be held in the Fellowship Hall at First Baptist Church of Murfreesboro, located at 200 East Main Street. Registration is open now through Eventbrite.

This workshop is designed with parents and custodial grandparents in mind—anyone caring for a child whose brain simply works a little differently. A neurodivergent child may have autism, ADHD, dyslexia, sensory processing differences, or other developmental variations. These differences aren’t illnesses or deficits; they’re part of the natural range of human brains. Nationally, about 15–20% of people fall somewhere under the neurodivergent umbrella, and roughly one in six children has a developmental difference. Middle Tennessee mirrors those same numbers.

What has changed in recent years is awareness. Schools in Rutherford County and Murfreesboro City Schools are identifying more students who need support—not because neurodivergence is suddenly more common, but because screening has improved and families are more willing to seek answers. Both districts have expanded special education services, behavioral supports, and inclusion programs. Still, families often feel the strain of long waitlists for evaluations and the challenge of finding the right tools at home.

That’s where this workshop hopes to make a difference.

The session will be led by Courtney Maze, LPC‑MHSP (Temp.), a therapist with Insight Counseling Centers who works in both Franklin and Nashville’s Donelson neighborhood. Maze specializes in supporting neurodivergent clients, older adults, women, and individuals healing from spiritual trauma. She also leads therapy groups in Murfreesboro for older adults and for parents of neurodivergent children, giving her a close understanding of what local families are navigating.

Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of neurodivergent development, practical strategies they can use immediately, and—perhaps most importantly—a more compassionate lens for both their child and themselves.

Registration is available at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/how-do-i-support-my-neurodivergent-child-tickets-1981346593999?aff=oddtdtcreator