Signature Session

Signature Session: The Role of Mental Health in the World of Giftedness

Saturday, November 15, 2025

9:15 AM - 11:00 AM ET

Location: Convention Center, Ballroom A

Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12
Content Level: Introduction to the Topic
Target Audience: Classroom Teachers, Couselors and other Clinical Professionals, Gifted Coordinators

Donna Y. Ford, Ph.D.

Professor
Ohio State University
Canal Winchester, Ohio, United States
ES

Elizabeth Shaunessy-Dedrick

Professor and Associate Dean for Research
University of South Florida
Tampa, Florida, United States
KS

Kristie L. Speirs Neumeister

Professor
Ball State University
Fishers, Indiana, United States

This session focuses on the role of mental health from a wellness and prevention approach. Issues to be addressed include the role of mental health in establishing and sustaining belongingness among gifted and talented youth, and the importance of well-being for special populations of the gifted, including twice/thrice exceptional learners and minoritized boys.

Learning Objectives:

Identify signs of academic stress
Identify strategies to promote engagement and belonging
Identify strategies to promote effective coping for a variety of gifted populations