In this 90 minute seminar you will be taught about 4 aspects of FN(V)D

1. The evolution
Trace the development of FND and functional neurological voice disorder, from hysteria and conversion disorder to contemporary, evidence-based neurological models.

2. Bias, discrimination and harm
Explore how gendered ideas, Freud’s influence and the belief that symptoms are “all in the head” have contributed to stigma, diagnostic overshadowing and harmful clinical encounters.

3. Where we are now
Examine current research, populations, signs and symptoms, with particular attention to functional voice presentations and positive diagnostic signs (including whether the voice can change within a session).

4. Where we might be headed
Consider emerging neurobiological models, multidisciplinary rehabilitation, patient-centred language and the need for more inclusive, voice-specific research.