From Asperger’s to Autism: How Language and Understanding Have Changed

Language around autism has changed through science, policy, culture and autistic advocacy. This session explains what changed, why it matters and how to speak respectfully now.

You will leave with a clearer language map and more respectful ways to discuss autism and support needs.

Who it’s for

This webinar is for neurodivergent professionals who want practical insight into their own working lives, and for managers, HR and People teams, DEI and L&D professionals, educators, coaches, practitioners, colleagues and allies who want to make neuroinclusion more informed and useful. You do not need a diagnosis or prior specialist knowledge to attend.

What you’ll explore

• How Asperger syndrome became part of broader autism diagnoses
• Why people may relate differently to older and current identity terms
• The limits of functioning labels and simple hierarchies
• How to follow individual language preferences without losing clarity

How the session works

Explore research and lived experience through anonymous polls, short games, realistic scenarios and optional reflection. Participate by voice, chat or polls, or simply listen. There is no cold-calling and cameras are optional.

ACCESSIBILITY AND PARTICIPATION

Live automated captions are available. Cameras and microphones are optional. You can participate by voice, chat, anonymous Mentimeter activities or quiet reflection, and you may pass, pause or step away at any time. To discuss another access need, use Eventbrite’s Contact the organiser option. Please do not include private medical information in public questions.

ABOUT THE FACILITATOR

Nat Hawley is the founder of Divergent Thinking, a UK neuroinclusion consultancy. Nat combines neurodivergent lived experience, an MSc in Applied Neuroscience and extensive workplace delivery experience. His approach turns research and real-world insight into clear, ethical and practical action.

ABOUT DIVERGENT THINKING

Divergent Thinking helps organisations turn good intentions into practical neuroinclusion through evidence-informed training, consultancy, coaching, workplace needs assessments and audits.

Explore Divergent Thinking’s neuroinclusion training, consultancy and support

This educational webinar cannot assess or diagnose anyone and does not replace individual clinical, legal or therapeutic advice.

A recording will be shared with everyone who registers. A free attendance certificate is available on request after the live session.

Choose your ticket

Standard Admission is £15 including Eventbrite fees. Choose this if you can comfortably afford it or your employer is paying; your booking helps keep this series accessible.

Free concession — cost is a barrier: 20 places for jobseekers, students, unpaid carers, people on low incomes, or anyone who would otherwise struggle to attend. No proof or explanation is needed. One place per person; availability is shown at checkout. Every admission ticket includes the same webinar and recording, with a free attendance certificate available on request after attending live.

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