Jodie Herbert is the founder of Ability Pathways, a mentoring and implementation support service that helps neurodivergent adults translate diagnosis into real-world progress.
Her work focuses on what she calls The Implementation Gap — the space between understanding a diagnosis and being able to apply that insight to work, study and everyday life. This approach is informed by Implementation Science, which examines how knowledge and clinical insights are translated into real-world practice.
Alongside more than 30 years’ experience in business, marketing and strategy, Jodie brings 50 years supporting family members and close relationships navigating physical disability, mental health, medical conditions and neurodiversity, as well as 21 years as a parent and 12 years navigating and self-managing NDIS plans for her non-verbal, autistic sons. Her work focuses on helping individuals and families bridge the gap between understanding a diagnosis and building real-world momentum.
This combination allows her to bridge the worlds of therapy, systems and real life. Through workshops, mentoring and practical guidance, she helps individuals and families build structure, regain momentum and design pathways forward after diagnosis.
Making Sense of the Diagnosis.
Receiving a diagnosis can bring relief, but it can also trigger a wave of complex emotions — including shock, grief, guilt, shame and uncertainty about what comes next.
In this session we focus on the early stage after diagnosis and the questions many individuals and families face as they begin to process the news and consider how it may affect their lives.
We will explore:
• the emotional impact of diagnosis and common responses such as grief, guilt and self-blame
• how to talk about a diagnosis with family members, friends, schools and workplaces
• when disclosure can help — and when it may not be necessary
• the basics of the NDIS — what it is designed to do, what it is not designed to do, and common myths that often cause confusion
• what changes people can realistically expect when engaging with the NDIS system
We will also introduce the concept of Implementation Science — the study of how knowledge and insight are translated into real-world practice. Participants will learn how simple implementation strategies can help regulate routines, improve progress and support a more stable and sustainable quality of life over time.
This session helps participants move from the initial shock of diagnosis toward a clearer understanding of what the diagnosis means and how to begin navigating the next stage with confidence.