Dr. Zosia Zaks consults with individuals, families, and couples to solve challenges using neurodiversity-affirming strategies.

Dr. Zaks also consults with schools, agencies, companies, and organizations seeking to build neurodiversity-affirming practices and to ensure authentic inclusion. In addition to consulting, he can provide professional development, in-service training, and keynotes for disability-related events and conferences.

BACKGROUND:

Dr. Zaks earned his Ph.D. in human development from Fielding Graduate University, where his research focused on neurodiversity paradigm change and theories of human development that eschew an abnormal/normal framework. He is also a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor and has counseled 100s of neurodivergent teens and young adults for over two decades, supporting them to live and work in their communities and to reach their dreams.

Dr. Zaks served as Manager of Programs and Education at Towson University’s Hussman Center for Autistic Adults from 2013-2022. At Towson University, students participated in a diversity education course he created and taught that included meaningful service-learning experiences with autistic adults at the Hussman Center for Autistic Adults. There, college students and autistic adults from the local community worked together to challenge stereotypes and build a more inclusive society. Also while at Towson University, he developed and ran a peer-based support program for autistic college students and an on-campus employment readiness program. Upon leaving Towson University’s Hussman Center, Dr. Zaks served as Rowan University’s inaugural Neurodiversity Scholar-in-Residence. He continues to teach autism courses at several universities utilizing a social justice lens and preparing students to be effective change agents.

Dr. Zaks advocates for legislation and public policies that ensure disabled people have access to the supports and services they need to live full lives and has served on the Maryland Commission on Disability, the Maryland Rehabilitation Council, and the Maryland Commission for Autism.

Dr. Zaks brings a unique mix of perspectives to his endeavors as a counselor, educator, parent of two neurodivergent young adults, and as an autistic transgender self-advocate.