On May 7, CAMH welcomed guests both in person and virtually for Finally Seen: From Diagnosis to Daily Life, a panel discussion exploring the intersection of neurodivergence and mental health in women and gender-diverse people. Created in collaboration with womenmind™, the Women’s Health Research Cluster, CAMH’s Azrieli Adult Neurodevelopmental Centre, Science Up First, and Health Canada, the event brought together lived experience, clinical insight, research, and community in a thoughtfully designed and affirming space.
Hosted by Paige Layle, the evening featured a conversation with Dr. Yani Hamdani, Dr. Laura St. John, and Dr. Louisa Lok Yee Man. Together, they explored topics including masking and diagnostic delay, burnout and mental health impacts, neurodiversity-affirming care, physical and reproductive health, and the importance of shifting systems to better support neurodivergent people throughout their lives.
The discussion highlighted both the challenges many people face in navigating systems of care and the possibilities for creating more inclusive, supportive experiences. The event moved beyond traditional conversations around “late diagnosis” to focus on something deeper: what it means to be recognized, understood, and supported. Throughout the discussion, panelists reflected on the emotional and systemic realities many neurodivergent women face, while also highlighting the importance of autonomy, accessibility, compassionate care, and community connection.
Designed intentionally with accessibility and neurodivergent experiences in mind, the evening encouraged guests to engage in whatever way felt most comfortable for them. Attendees were welcomed into a lower-sensory environment with flexible seating, a quiet viewing room, live captioning and translation, interactive activities, and resource stations available throughout the space.
Interactive elements included the “Cosmic Canvas,” a collaborative Lite-Brite installation where guests contributed to a collective visual display, a sensory station where attendees could build their own stress balls, and the “Launch Pad,” which allowed guests to submit questions for the panel anonymously or with support from volunteers.
The event welcomed neurodivergent women and gender-diverse people, caregivers, healthcare professionals, educators, allies, and community members seeking to better understand neurodivergence and mental health across the lifespan. More than a panel discussion, Finally Seen created space for reflection, connection, and conversation in an environment designed to help people feel supported and seen.
CAMH extends sincere thanks to all speakers, attendees, volunteers, and partners who helped make the evening possible, as well as COPS Doughnuts for generously providing treats in kind for guests.
