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Center for Embodied Equity and Neurodiversity Presents

Heart-Centered Connections (HCC) Facilitators Certificate (Level 2)

Build on your Level 1 foundation, unlock transformative skills, and earn the authorization to partner with us in delivering the HCC program within your district or agency.

Heart-Centered Connections Level 2 Facilitator Training Program

The Heart-Centered Connections Level 2 Facilitator Training Program is rooted in applied educational neuroscience and offers a trauma-informed approach to supporting the needs of neurodivergent learners. This training is designed to help facilitators transition from implementing this work primarily with children to effectively delivering this work to support adults, many of whom may be neurodivergent and have high sensory processing needs. The training will equip facilitators with the necessary tools to guide, manage, and empower adult learners in trauma-sensitive environments. In this level, you will build on your Level 1 foundation, unlock transformative skills, and earn the authorization to partner with us in delivering our program within your district or agency.

Objectives:

  • Deepen Understanding of Applied Educational Neuroscience:
    • Explore trauma-informed methodologies tailored to adult learners.
    • Understand the neuroscience behind self-regulation and sensory processing in adults.
  • Develop Effective Strategies for Supporting Neurodivergent Adults:
    • Identify and address the unique needs of neurodivergent adults.
    • Implement strategies for fostering engagement, safety, and learning retention in diverse adult populations.
  • Strengthen Facilitation Skills for Adult Learners:
    • Shift the mindset from working with children to engaging adults in meaningful learning experiences.
    • Learn techniques to establish and maintain a trauma-sensitive environment that meets the needs of adult participants.
  • Enhance Communication and Conflict Resolution Abilities:
    • Equip facilitators with skills to manage group dynamics and conflicts.
    • Develop strategies for addressing resistance and emotional triggers in adult learners.
  • Foster a Collaborative and Supportive Learning Environment:
    • Promote community-building and peer-to-peer learning.
    • Encourage self-reflection and professional growth among facilitators.

Expected Outcomes:

  • Confident and Skilled Facilitators:
    • Facilitators will successfully transition from child-centered facilitation to effectively supporting adult learners.
    • They will demonstrate the ability to create engaging and inclusive learning spaces.
  • Improved Ability to Support Neurodivergent Adults:
    • Facilitators will develop practical skills to recognize and accommodate diverse neurodivergent needs.
    • They will apply trauma-informed approaches to create supportive and accessible learning environments.
  • Stronger Communication and Leadership Skills:
    • Facilitators will be equipped to handle complex adult interactions with sensitivity and professionalism.
    • They will demonstrate improved conflict resolution and group management skills.
  • Enhanced Program Impact and Effectiveness:
    • Facilitators will contribute to the long-term success and sustainability of the Heart-Centered Connections program by delivering high-quality training sessions
    • They will play a pivotal role in expanding the program’s reach and effectiveness in diverse learning communities.

Upcoming Cohort Dates & Program Cost

Immersion (3-Days in San Diego): May 20-22, 2026

Zoom Sessions (6): Wednesdays from 4:30-6:30pm (Pacific Time)

June 3, June 24, July 8, July 22, August 5, September 9

The cost for this certificate is $5,000

This program is facilitated by Dr. Niki Elliott.

agenda for day 1
11 a.m.-12 p.m.
  • Introductions
  • Group Agreements
12-1 p.m.
  • Lunch
1-5 p.m.
  • Exploring Personal Dispositions: Unpacking How the Concepts Presented in Dr. Niki’s Neuroinclusion Framework Shape Your Facilitation Style
  • Identify Your Innermost Values and Assess Your Approach to Leading Adults in Neuroinclusive Spaces

About the Facilitator

Dr. Niki Elliott

Niki Elliott, PhD serves as director for the Center for Embodied Equity and Neurodiversity at University of San Diego’s School of Leadership and Education Sciences. In this role, she leads the development of research projects and professional certificates for PK-12 educators, school counselors, and college faculty.

A high-energy, spirited, and inspiring teacher educator, Niki has taught students of all ages for more than 30 years. She is a staunch advocate for students whose lived experiences include learning disabilities, mental health diagnoses, and foster care placement. Her mission is to galvanize an education workforce that establishes trauma-informed, neuroinclusive learning communities where all students and educators thrive.

Each program will be co-facilitated by Dr. Niki and other trained Heart-Centered Connections Facilitators.

We sincerely thank the San Diego Foundation for their vital support in making this program possible for our educators.

Contact Us

If you have any questions or need to request any accommodations, please contact our support team.