Positive Psychology Academy Student Experiences – Neurodiversity (Matilde Vázquez)

Matilde Vázquez is a Certified Strengths-Based Practitioner (Neurodiversity & Inclusion) who graduated from the Level 3 Certificate Neurodiversity & Inclusion (Train the Trainer) course in 2026. Below is a summary of her experience and how she is applying her learning in a professional role.

What motivated you to apply for and engage in this course?          

I had long suspected I was neurodivergent (ASD), particularly due to my differences in communication, reliance on routine, and a strong preference for logic that often did not align with others. At the same time, I recognised unique strengths: the ability to connect seemingly unrelated ideas, translate unstructured brainstorming into clear, logical narratives that make sense to everyone involved, and learn independently, such as teaching myself foreign languages. I began to feel these abilities were linked to thinking differently. When I discovered Positive Psychology and its strengths-based approach, it resonated deeply. It gave me a framework to understand myself more constructively and inspired me to apply for the course.

What did you learn about Neurodiversity & Inclusion during your studies?         

During my studies, I gained a strong understanding of the legal frameworks that protect neurodivergent individuals and ensure access to reasonable adjustments. I explored different types of neurodivergence, how they manifest, and the balance between strengths and challenges. A key insight was that recognising strengths should not minimise or overlook real difficulties. I also developed an awareness of ethical considerations in training, including maintaining boundaries, understanding professional limits, and ensuring the safety and wellbeing of both participants and myself. Overall, the course provided both theoretical knowledge and practical guidance for responsible, inclusive practice.

What do you wish people understood about Neurodiversity?         

I wish people understood that being neurodivergent does not mean being broken or in need of fixing. Many challenges arise because society is not designed with neurodivergent people in mind. Navigating this often requires significant effort and resourcefulness, which in itself reflects strength. Judging people by how closely they fit a standard norm limits access to diverse perspectives, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. Neurodivergent individuals have valuable contributions to make and want to participate meaningfully. Inclusion is not about accommodation alone. It is also about recognising and valuing difference as a source of insight and progress.

What was the most meaningful part of your course experience?

The most meaningful part of my experience was developing and delivering my presentation. It allowed me to bring together both personal insight and practical tools that have supported me, particularly in navigating corporate environments that are not always neurodiversity-friendly. Sharing strategies such as energy management, clear communication, and strengths-based approaches felt like offering something genuinely valuable. I also found it rewarding to design the presentation in a way that could resonate with diverse audiences, ensuring accessibility and relevance. It felt like a moment of integration, where my lived experience and learning came together with purpose.

Do you have any practical advice for new students on this course?

My main advice would be to trust yourself. It is natural to feel overwhelmed at times, whether by assignments, course material, or time commitments. However, if this is something you truly want to pursue, do not let doubt stop you. Be honest about your limits, respect them, and work with them rather than against them. The course offers flexibility, and the tutors are supportive and understanding. Progress may not always be linear, but it is still progress. If you stay aligned with your own pace and strengths, you will find both enjoyment in learning and a strong sense of achievement.

How do you hope to apply (or are you applying) your course learning?

Alongside my corporate role, I run a coaching practice called EmberPath Coaching. The name reflects my belief that each person has a unique path and purpose, which becomes clearer when we connect with our inner strengths and values—the “embers” that guide us. This course has helped me give structure and depth to that philosophy. I aim to apply my learning by supporting both individuals and organisations, particularly in raising awareness of neurodiversity and fostering inclusive workplaces. My goal is to help integrate neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals in ways that enable everyone to grow, contribute, and thrive.

About Matilde Vázquez

Matilde is a multilingual, multidisciplinary practitioner. Her headline strengths include verbal reasoning and the ability to translate complex ideas into clear, meaningful language. She holds a BA in Arabic and Islamic Studies and currently works as a Senior Vice President in a real estate finance services company. In parallel, she runs her own coaching practice, EmberPath Coaching.

She believes that each of us carries an inner direction – often quiet, sometimes obscured – shaped by our values, strengths, and lived experience. Her work focuses on helping people reconnect with that inner “ember” and use it as a guide to create meaningful and sustainable change.

Her approach is informed by holistic wellbeing practices, including yoga and Ayurveda-based lifestyle principles, supporting energy regulation and physical and psychological wellbeing as an interconnected whole. She places particular emphasis on clear communication as a way to reduce misunderstandings and support effective self-management. As an autistic (ASD) practitioner, she brings both lived experience and professional expertise to supporting different cognitive styles and helping organisations better understand and integrate neurodivergent strengths.

Find out more at www.emberpathcoaching.com