Unmasking Potential: Q&A with Dr. Portia Allie Turco

Dr. Portia Allie-Turco is an assistant professor, program coordinator, and clinic director at the State University of New York, Plattsburgh. She is also the owner of Adirondack Mental Health Counseling PLCC, a private practice offering counseling, supervision, and consultation services. On Tuesday, February 4, Dr. Allie-Turco will deliver the plenary presentation for our Annual Workplace Neurodiversity Summit, entitled Unmasking Potential: Strategies to Liberate Your Authentic Self. (11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. ET)
What are you most excited to discuss or share at this year’s Workplace Neurodiversity event?
I'm most excited to dive into the concept of unmasking; specifically, how we, as neurodiverse individuals, often navigate environments by adapting parts of ourselves to fit in, sometimes at the cost of our true identity. I want to explore the emotional and mental toll that masking and code-switching can take and, more importantly, provide strategies to help people reclaim their authenticity. By offering practical tools and insights, I hope to empower everyone to move past the “adaptation” phase and start showing up fully as their authentic selves.
How do you see this event contributing to the broader movement of workplace inclusion and diversity, especially for neurodiverse individuals?
This event is a powerful opportunity to shine a light on the unique experiences of neurodiverse individuals in the workplace. So often, as neuro-distinct people, we feel pressured to mask our true selves to fit into workplace norms that don’t always align with who we are. The more we normalize these conversations, the closer we get to a more inclusive and diverse workplace for everyone, regardless of their neurotype.
What outcomes or key takeaways do you hope the audience will walk away with after attending the event?
I hope attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of the subtle but powerful impact that masking and code-switching have on their well-being, as well as practical strategies for reducing these behaviors. I want everyone to feel empowered to show up as their true selves to promote mental and emotional health. Additionally, I want individuals to recognize that embracing their neurodivergent identity isn’t just about being authentic; it’s also about creating a balance to thrive in different environments without burnout.
Are there any particular tools, resources, or strategies you will be highlighting at the event that attendees can immediately implement in their own workplaces?
I plan to discuss strategies that can be used immediately, such as identifying triggers for code-switching and masking and developing personalized “authenticity checklists” to help navigate different settings. These checklists will include tips on maintaining boundaries, recognizing when you’re slipping into masking behaviors, and communicating your needs more openly with coworkers or managers. I'll highlight mindfulness techniques to help regulate emotions during high-pressure situations and teach ways to create a more neurodivergent-friendly environment through small but impactful changes.
See the whole Workplace Neurodiversity Summit schedule and register.