Dr. Matthew Zakreski (affectionately known as “Dr. Matt”) is a seasoned clinical psychologist and professional speaker renowned for his expertise in serving neurodivergent individuals (people with different brains such as gifted, ADHD, Autism, and dyslexia). Dr. Matt thrives in supporting young people in understanding, developing, and celebrating their unique brains while developing strengths-based ways of operating in their world. He is best known for his work with gifted individuals as an advocate for using accessible understanding of neurodivergent needs to implement high-level supports. Having delivered over 500 talks all over the world, Dr. Matt has cultivated a reputation as a dynamic keynote speaker, captivating audiences with his insightful presentations and empowering messages.

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Dr. Zakreski holds a PsyD in Clinical Psychology from Widener University, where his research focused on social and emotional needs of gifted learners and branched out into best educational and occupational practices for neurodivergent people. His academic background, combined with extensive clinical practice, provides him with a profound understanding of how these different brains interact with societal structures and how to support them.​

 

As a keynote speaker, Dr. Zakreski brings an engaging blend of energy, humor, heart, and authenticity to his presentations. He has a gift for translating complex neuropsychology concepts into practical strategies that resonate and connect with audiences. His talks are not only informative but also deeply inspiring, providing his audiences with realistic, tangible approaches to navigating the world, informed by brain science and best clinical practice. 

 

Dr. Zakreski seeks to entertain, inform, and inspire wherever he speaks.​Dr. Zakreski covers a wide range of topics in his keynote speeches, including creating hope, managing imposter syndrome, overcoming perfectionism, and fostering emotional intelligence. His engaging style and ability to connect with his audience create an immersive experience that leaves a lasting impact.  Dr. Zakreski’s most requested speeches are “Riding Out the Storm: Managing Emotional Intensity”, “They’re All Going to Find Out I’m a Fraud!: Combatting Impostor Syndrome”, “Failure is Fun...damental”, and “The Power of Non-Zero Thinking: Understanding Anxiety and Making it Work For You”.

 

​Dr. Zakreski is a respected author, whose work appears in peer-reviewed journals and industry periodicals, including Gifted Child Today, Clinical Practice in Pediatric Psychology, and Journal of Gifted Education and Creativity. Recognized as an expert on child psychology, he was quoted in a recent New York Times article on millennial parents. Dr. Zakreski’s first book is slated to be published in September 2024. The working title is The Neurodivergent Playbook: Cracking the Code of a World That Was Not Built for You.​

 

Committed to advancing mental health awareness and neurodivergent equity, Dr. Zakreski is a frequent guest on psychology and education podcasts, including Learn With Dr. Emily, the Autism/ADHD Podcast, and That’s Total Mom-Sense.  Dr. Zakreski is an active member of the National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC) and Supporting Emotional Needs of the Gifted (SENG), as well as the New Jersey Association for Gifted Children (NJAGC) and the Pennsylvania Association for Gifted Education (PAGE). He has served on the boards of both state and national organizations for education and mental health.  Dr. Zakreski frequently consults for organizations to improve their practices.​

 

Passionate about reducing stigma surrounding neurodiversity, Dr. Zakreski is driven by his mission to promote a culture of compassion and understanding in order to support people in embracingunderstanding and celebrating their unique brains and ways of operating in the world.  There’s nothing he enjoys more than partnering with an organization to advance that cause.​

 

Dr. Zakreski lives in New Jersey with his wife and their two children.