Let’s learn by play! During this interesting and interactive workshop, we will mix creative writing, roleplaying games, developmental psychology, and a deeper understanding of Dabrowski's dynamisms to conceptualize Identity Development Theory (Williams). After being introduced to the theory, players will take the young versions of iconic characters — Batman, Dorothy from Wizard of Oz, Princess Leia, Spock — through game scenarios and watch their identities develop, as explained by this theory. By the end of the session, you will have a firm grasp of identity development and major concepts, you will have fun watching familiar characters evolve in new ways, and you will have the confidence to further apply dynamisms and Identity Development Theory to your own life and the lives of gifted children, adults, students, clients, and characters!

Patty L. Gently, MSMHC, PhD, (formerly Williams) is the president and founder of Bright Insight Support Network where she works as a trauma therapist who specializes in counseling, coaching, and advocating for gifted, twice-exceptional (2e), and neurodivergent (ND) persons, along with other marginalized populations. Her unique involvement with this community gives her a platform through which Dr. Patty writes, presents, and teaches about neuropsychology, giftedness and trauma, identity development, and bias reduction. As a 2e adult, Dr. Patty is no stranger to topics impacting gifted, 2e, and neurodivergent persons and makes it her mission to connect with others, authentically, about these and other topics. 

Quirky, wordy and lightning-fast at the keyboard — Youssef Sleiman tells stories for a living, plying his natural and professional curiosity to make the important interesting. Years as a newspaper reporter in the Pacific Northwest and decades in corporate America have shaped his storytelling career. Today, he sets editorial direction and writes for a national brand, consults on AI-based SEO strategies, and coaches gifted curious individuals as part of  the Bright Insight Support Network, helping people new to or rediscovering their giftedness.