The Neurodiversity Playbook

This book represents a summation of a decade's worth of therapy, research, workshops, and presentations around the unique aspects of social-emotional development in the neurodivergent community. The book grounds its approach in neuroscience and then applies those data to how our brains impact our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. As a child psychologist who specializes in working with this population, I pride myself on identifying the challenging aspects of having a different brain and empowering kids to manage those differences. As such, this book will contain sections that directly address the parts of being gifted that have traditionally been emphasized less: making friends, maintaining relationships, regulating emotions, communicating your feelings and needs appropriately, and being able to identify contextual factors to understand why people are acting the way they are. Naming the issues is one thing, but each section will contain case examples, clinical advice, and tangible skills that will help students grow in the areas of social-emotional learning (SEL). These skills are deliverable, generalizable, and appropriate for school, home, and the community. Most importantly, they work. I often say that I want my clients to have a little "pocket Dr. Matt" to help them navigate the world; this book is my attempt at creating that kind of external support.

"Dr. Zakreski is one of the country's leading experts on neurodivergence, and I have had the pleasure of attending many of his talks. His forthright, knowledgeable approach always helps me learn more about this and other important topics, and I was excited to read his new book. It does not disappoint! His passion and expertise regarding neurodivergence jump off every page, and he includes a plethora of practical information and advice for individuals interested in how and why some of us see the world so differently than others."
--Johnathan Plucker, Ph.D., professor at Johns Hopkins University and former president of the NAGC
"If you, your child, or anyone else in your world is neurodivergent or gifted, this book is a must read! Highly engaging and relatable, The Neurodiversity Playbook combines research, complex psychological and brain science concepts, and clinical examples to offer a comprehensive overview of neurodivergence. Filled with heartfelt personal stories, clinical vignettes, and actionable advice, this book will guide you toward a greater understanding of the neurodivergent experience."
--Gail Post, Ph.D., licensed psychologist and author of The Gifted Parenting Journey
"In his wonderful new book, Dr. Matthew Zakreski offers readers a deep dive into the world of neurodivergence that is both incredibly interesting and very helpful. Dr. Zakreski manages to weave together research from neuroscience and psychology with personal and clinical anecdotes in a relatable and often humorous way so that people can understand the brains they have. Then he offers innovative tools like the SCOOPER technique and helpful graphics like the Imposter Cycle to live more effectively with neurodivergence that are practical and applicable in daily life. I couldn't believe how many notes I took while reading this great resource that I plan to use right away in my own work. I highly recommend this terrific book!"
--Sharon Saline, Psy.D., author of What Your ADHD Child Wishes You Knew: Working Together to Empower Kids for Success in School and Life and The ADHD Solution Card Deck
"Matt Zakreski's Neurodivergent Playbook brings a tone to the field that is both scientific and layman. He is the neurodivergent person's guide from next door. His way of expressing and explaining the neurodivergent person's pathway - the bumps, uphills, and thrilling slopes - is so relatable you'll think you're having a conversation with a friend. And suddenly, you'll understand yourself better and start formulating a game plan for a more joyful life."
--Julie Skolnick, MA, JD, author of Gifted and Distractible, and Founder of With Understanding Comes Calm, LLC
"The Neurodivergent Playbook is a giant deep breath for anyone who is neurodivergent themselves or wants to better connect with people who experience the world differently. With humor and compassion, Dr. Zakreski unravels the complexities of ADHD and other diagnoses, mixing his own experiences and real-life case studies with scientific evidence. The result is a guide that is equal parts heartfelt and data-driven--and an absolute must-read for anyone who has ever wondered, whether for themselves or a loved one, Why do the "easy" things feel so hard?"
--Caitlin Moscatello, author and journalist
"This book will surely become a go to for readers. A magnificent gift for the neurodivergent community. Dr. Matt, an expert in the field, shares insights on the brain, behavior and breakthroughs! He connects with the readers through his humor and story while making psychology accessible for neurodivergent people to thrive."
--Nicole A. Tetreault, Ph.D., author of Insight into a Bright Mind and Neuroscientist
"This is my new go-to playbook when working with neurodivergent clients. What a gem of a resource!"
--Scott Barry Kaufman, Ph.D., author of Twice Exceptional, Ungifted, Transcend, and Rise Above

"Dr. Matt is the real deal. His authenticity is engaging and contagious, allowing us to fully accept ourselves for who we are, while inspiring us to be better. Drawing on his experiences in life, teaching, and therapy, he not only breaks down the "code" in a way we can understand, but also teaches us the foundational skills needed for life. Affirming and compassionate, The Neurodivergent Playbook is a beacon and guide for all who are wired differently and those who raise, teach, supervise, and coach them."
--Dan Peters, Ph.D., licensed psychologist, co-founder and Executive Director, Summit Center, author, Make Your Warrior a Warrior and From Warrior to Warrior, co-author, Boosting Your Child's Natural Creativity and Bright, Complex Kids

Matthew Zakreski, PsyD. is a high energy, creative clinical psychologist who utilizes an eclectic approach to meet the specific needs of his neurodiverse clients. He specializes in working with children and adolescents, as well as their families, in providing therapy and conducting psychological evaluations. He is proud to serve as a consultant to schools, a professor at the university level, and a researcher and author on his specialty, Giftedness. Dr. Zakreski is a member of Supporting the Emotional Needs of the Gifted (SENG), the National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC), and the New Jersey Association for Gifted Children (NJAGC). He is also a member of the Pennsylvania Association for Gifted Education (PAGE) Board of Directors. He has given professional talks, trainings, and keynote addresses at these organizations and others. Dr. Zakreski is the founder and lead clinician at The Neurodiversity Collective, where he provides therapy, coaching, training, and psychological assessment.

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