Episode 56: Creating Spaces for Everyone to Thrive with Nikki Smit

The SIXCOMMS Podcast

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Welcome to a special series ‘Conversations That Count’ featuring Singapore-based
professionals. This sunny island has been my home since 2009, so I’m excited to
shine a spotlight on the inspiring residents I share this sunny island with!
About our guest:

Nikki Smit is a neurodivergent occupational therapist with over 13 years’ experience,
dedicated to inclusion and trauma-sensitive care. With a deep passion for
demystifying neurodiversity and the nervous system. In her business, Project Play,
she offers therapy, coaching, and advocacy for individuals of all ages. Nikki extends
her expertise through workshops and consultation services tailored for a wide range
of organisations. Her own neurodivergent experiences enrich her compassionate
approach.
Here are just a couple of topics we discussed:
Understanding Neurodiversity: Nikki began by explaining the concept of
neurodiversity, emphasizing that everyone has unique neurotypes, making the world
inherently neurodiverse. She highlighted the importance of recognizing
neurodivergence, which includes conditions like autism, ADHD, and dyslexia, under a
strengths-based approach rather than a deficit-focused one.
Creating Inclusive Spaces: The conversation delved into practical strategies for
creating environments where everyone, including neurodivergent individuals, can
thrive. This includes understanding sensory needs, communication preferences, and
the importance of a supportive community.
Nikki provides valuable tools and techniques for individuals and organizations to
support neurodivergent colleagues and friends, such as learning from neurodivergent
communities, using a nervous system lens to understand interactions, and being
open to having conversations about individual needs.
Timestamps:

[00:02:46] Creating Inclusive Spaces
[00:03:55] Understanding Neurodivergence
[00:08:01] Nikki’s Personal Insights on Neurodivergence
[00:15:41] Language and Communication in Neurodivergence
[00:17:11] Nervous System Regulation
[00:21:05] Strategies: Creating Supportive Environments
[00:24:52] Inclusive Language and Sensory Needs
[00:30:23] Practical and Supportive Tools and Techniques
Recommended Reading:
Mitchell, P., Sheppard, E., and Cassidy, S. (2021). Autism and the double empathy
problem: Implications for development and mental health. British Journal of
Developmental Psychology, 39(1), 1-18
Connect with Nikki:
Website: http://www.projectplay.sg/
Instagram: @nikkismittherapy
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikki-smit-572087b8/
Connect with Lisa:
Website: https://www.sixcomms.org/
Email: [e-mail]
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisasing/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sixcomms_podcast/
Intro VO: Edric Poon
Podcast: Edric Poon In Company (EP.IC podcast)
IG: @Epicpodcasting
LinkedIn: edricpoon
Website: https://kaleoscopic.com/

https://www.sixcomms.org/