Meet Dave
As a person with Tourette’s and its related behaviours, I was never going to fit the mould of standard high school education without difficulty. That difficulty has turned out to be a gift as I achieved far more by not fitting in to the standard plan.
I am Dave Brebner. I am a successful teacher, career coach, husband, father of six, son and friend. You can read more about my life story and how I reached the point where I am now.
Connect with me on LinkedIn or other socials to book a neurodiversity-focused presentation today!
“Remember that being different is your biggest asset and you don’t have to be like everyone else!”
What is Tourette’s Syndrome?
You may have heard of it, but most people don’t really know what it is except for the common misconception that all people with the condition blurt out unusual sounds or offensive words.
Tourette (pronounced too-RET) Syndrome is a neurological disorder which included repetitive physical movements or unwanted sounds (tics) that are difficult to control. Some people might blink their eyes or shrug their shoulders, it is different for every individual.
‘Tics typically show up between ages 2 and 15, with the average being around 6 years of age. Males are about three to four times more likely than females to develop Tourette syndrome.
Although there’s no cure for Tourette syndrome, treatments are available. Many people with Tourette syndrome don’t need treatment when symptoms aren’t troublesome. Tics often lessen or become controlled after the teen years.‘
My Story
At the age of 7, with a good stable family life, a positive and friendly outlook and relatively good ability at school, something strange happened to me.
I began to exhibit peculiar actions like sudden head shaking and making noises including compulsive throat clearing. My behaviour was dismissed by the family doctor as a passing phase or an attention-seeking device.
As I grew as a teen with Tourette’s in the 1970’s, little was known or discussed about Tourette’s syndrome. No one knew what I had and I myself, had no idea why I made all kinds of odd noises and mimicry.
I believe that a person who avoids walking a specific path cannot be a guide for others along that road. Because I have had to walk that path, I am a helpful guide to others walking blindly and alone through that same journey. I offer you direction and comfort when times are more challenging and help you return to the right path.
With a mindset that we are building people more than careers, the people I work with are supported to create transformation on the outside as critical thinkers and self-directed learners.
You can read more of my story to learn more about coping with and thriving through Tourette Syndrome, or check out my book!
Check out this article
Here’s a recent article I wrote featured in Tourette’s Action UK, have a read and let me know what you think!
“I am Dave Brebner, and This is My Story”
Discover one of our brilliant blogs as Dave Brebner shares his personal journey with Tourette’s. From challenges to triumphs, his story is filled with resilience and inspiration.
Want more?
I wrote a book!
You can now purchase my book online on Amazon!
Living Beyond Limits: My Struggle and Triumph Over Tourette’s Syndrome is my story and a testament to the unbreakable human spirit.
From being bullied, shunned, and told I would amount to nothing to becoming a PhD candidate, my journey proves that with courage and grit, anything is possible.
This book is a must-read, whether you’re seeking to better understand neurological diversity or need an uplifting reminder that you can overcome any odds.
Listen to a snapshot
Check out this podcast episode of Real Life With John Cowan I featured on for an bonus insight into my life and experience!
Testimonials
“Dave has the real ability to connect with an audience. During a recent session he delivered here, he engaged a very mixed group of people, some with moderate intellectual disabilities, right through to qualified trainers and assessors.
His humorous and highly informative talk kept our interest throughout!”
Christine Drimal
– Former Assessment Coordinator NOVA Training Inc.
“Dave Brebner has supported nearly 30 staff here to achieve their Cert IV in Career Development, which expands our capacity to service more young people in Western Sydney.
He acts as a mentor, coach and trainer to our staff and his understanding of young people and Neuroscience is extensive. He likes a laugh and often uses humour to engage the toughest clients.”
Ian Palmer
– CEO Schools Industry Partnership
“Dave is one of the most passionate professionals I know. If you need career and educational advice, he’s the man to go to – incredibly knowledgeable and undisputedly a leader in his field.
Always ready to share information and provide direction, I value Dave’s input – it’s always been invaluable.
Combined with his positive, can-do approach to life, he makes you realise that the sky is the limit!”
Melinda Leyshon
– CEO of Awards Agency
“Dave Brebner is an excellent presenter who shares his life experience. His story of adversity truly touches youth and reminds them that they can tackle challenges with a positive mindset and trust in God.
I highly recommend Dave as a speaker at youth gatherings or retreats. A genuine, generous and authentic man of faith and courage.”