Applied Psychology

Neurodevelopmental Disorders: Early Diagnosis & Intervention

Gain insight into the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and dyslexia.

R460.00

Structure

On-demand

Duration

3 hours

Total Hours

3 hours

Start Date

1 January 2026

End Date

31 December 2026

Mode

Self-paced learning

Workshop Introduction

A neurodevelopmental disorder is a condition that affects brain development, impacting cognitive function, learning, behavior, and social interactions. These disorders typically emerge in early childhood and can influence an individual’s ability to process information, communicate, and navigate daily life.

The Neurodevelopmental Disorders: Early Diagnosis and Intervention online workshop explores the criteria for diagnosing autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and dyslexia.

The workshop provides an understanding of how neurodevelopmental conditions are diagnosed based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR) and highlights the importance of early identification and intervention in improving outcomes for children and adults.

Designed for mental health professionals, educators, parents, caregivers, and anyone interested in learning more about neurodevelopmental disorders. Participants will gain insight into how these conditions affect learning and behaviour, how diagnoses are made, and why early intervention is crucial.

By exploring real-world applications and expert insights, learners will develop a deeper awareness of the challenges individuals with these disorders face and how to support them effectively.

Overview

Introduction of the workshop topic and overview
Understanding the diagnosis of neurodevelopmental disorders
Different types of neurodevelopmental disorders.
Diagnosis of autism, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and dyslexia.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the workshop practitioners will:

Explored criteria for diagnosis of neurodevelopmental disorders as per the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR).
Differentiated Types of Neurodevelopmental Disorders.
Increased their understanding of the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
Explore the broader context within which diagnosis happens.
Understand the importance of early diagnosis.

Learner Experience

Marlene Hoogendyk

"As a counsellor and mom of an autistic 8-year-old, I found this workshop very insightful and concise. I'd recommend it to all professionals working with neurodiverse individuals or children, especially doctors, psychologists and teachers."

Tracey Norton

"A fascinating and easy-to-work-through workshop covering neurodevelopmental disorders. I learned a lot about ASD, AD(H)D and specific learning disorders, as well as the genetic influence across many neurodevelopmental disorders. If you are interested in this topic, this is a short, content-rich workshop!"

Meryke du Preez

“My online learning experience was excellent and very informative. It built on the knowledge I gained during my Honours in Inclusive Education and deepened my understanding of Neurodevelopmental Disorders. I would highly recommend this course to anyone working with children.”

Megan Buckley

"My online learning experience was incredibly rewarding. I really enjoyed learning about neurodevelopmental delays and how to apply what I’ve learned to both my work and home life. I would recommend this course to anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the topic."

Isabella Visser

"I'm very happy with my learning experience. It was informative and I would definitely recommend the Neurodevelopmental Disorders workshop to others."

Faranaaz Waja

"Completing the Neurodevelopmental Disorders workshop has been an absolute pleasure! It was really easy to navigate the website and to learn online."

Katinka Pretorius

“An engaging and insightful introduction — I appreciated it both as a parent and as an aspiring specialist in the field."

Carla van Zijl

''I enjoyed the workshop. The content is relevant to my work in the field of psychometry where I work with children with a variety of neurodevelopmental conditions. The workshop gave me good insights into the types of interventions and referral sources available.''

Emily Dangwa

“As an artist passionate about mental health and an educator, I found the course both informative and enlightening — it deepened my understanding in meaningful ways.”

Loren Hutton

''The online workshop was super! It offered insightful information into the topic of Neurodevelopmental Disorders.''

Janika Van der Walt

"My online experience was good and I'm grateful that I did the workshop."

Shezadi Halliday

“I was eager to learn about neurodevelopmental disorders, and this course truly delivered. I gained valuable knowledge that I can now apply in my professional work. I’m already looking forward to choosing my next course with SACAP Global and highly recommend this one.”

Indiphile Gwanya

''I enjoyed the online workshop. I would recommend it to friends, family and colleagues. It was very informative.''

Kimberly-Caron Hendricks

"I found this online CPD workshop to be an eye-opening experience. I gained a clear understanding of how crucial early identification is and how timely interventions can profoundly shape a child’s development. I now feel better equipped to support students and their families with the right tools and resources from the very beginning."

Dates and Registration

Class of 2026: on demand

Participants can register at any time and move through the workshop content. Watch the live workshop recording and complete the online journal articles and multiple-choice questionnaire.

NOTE: HPCSA registered professionals who want to claim 3 CPD points [3 CEU Continuing Education Units points] need to complete the online assessment within 5 days after registering.

Certification

The CPD workshop has been designed for mental health professionals to understand the broader context within which diagnosis happens and the importance of early diagnosis. Once you have completed the course, you will receive a digital certificate of completion.

The certificate serves as evidence of your new skills and knowledge and can be used to demonstrate your commitment to professional development.

Attend a live online session, or watch the recording, and complete an online reading and assessment.

HPCSA registered professionals will receive 3 CPD points [3 CEU Continuing Education Units points] upon successful completion of the workshop.

Workshop Presenter

Dr Petro Erasmus is passionate about bringing change into the community. She holds a Doctorate in Psychology of Education from the University of Pretoria. She completed her Master’s in School Guidance and Counselling (cum laude) and BEd Honors Degree in Educational Management through The University of South Africa (UNISA).

Her private practice, Child, Family Guidance and Development Centre, does extensive work in the Mafikeng community, and Dr Erasmus was the project leader for a Bullying project which won the prize of a community project in 2015.

Additionally, she is a founding member of NEURADA Research and the creator of WHARTELSTM, an educational series of products including a board game, Puppets, maths apparatus, a storybook and a PENPlay app.

Course highlights

Understand the criteria for the diagnosis of neurodevelopmental disorders.
Differentiate types of neurodevelopmental disorders.
Explore the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.

FAQs

What are the entry requirements?

Anyone 18 years of age or older can sign up for this online workshop. There are no academic entry requirements or conditions.

Who is this workshop for?

This workshop is for anyone interested in learning about neurodevelopmental disorders.

What is the time commitment?

A total of 3 hours is required to complete the workshop.

What do you need to do the workshop?

Access to Microsoft Word
Google Chrome (recommended)
Stable internet connection

Is the workshop assessed?

Learners are required to complete an assessment comprising of reading a journal article and answering a 15-question multiple choice questionnaire.

Is the workshop accredited?

The online workshop is accredited by the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA).

What are neurodevelopmental disorders?

Neurodevelopmental disorders are conditions that start in early childhood and affect how the brain develops and works. These disorders can influence a child’s ability to learn, communicate, move, pay attention, or interact with others. They usually last a lifetime and come in different levels of severity. However, early diagnosis and support can greatly improve outcomes. Read more here.

What can you do after completing this workshop?

HPCSA registered professionals will receive 3 CPD points [3 CEU Continuing Education Units points] upon successful completion of the workshop.

The Team

The SACAP Global team brings a wealth of knowledge and practical experience across various disciplines. Our expert short course developers and dedicated support team are passionate about sharing their insights to help you get the most out of your online learning journey.