Counselling Autistic Adults: The diagnostic journey
Description:
Autistic adults face unique issues and require specific support in both the pre & post diagnosis journey. Many counsellors do not feel confident in counselling Autistic adults. This is an underserviced population in the counselling space, with a lot of focus existing on the needs of Autistic children and/or with a very deficit approach. This has led to Autistic adults experiencing ineffective or even harmful treatments. Additionally, many Autistic adults are put into the position of providing education to their mental health professionals about autism or the implications of and around diagnosis.
This is a 2hr live online interactive workshop for counsellors + other allied health professionals, filled with hands on strategies to support Autistic adults in every step of the diagnostic process
- Learn how to provide guidance and support to adults seeking an autism diagnosis
- Learn about the post-diagnosis phases
- Support Autistic adults post-diagnosis
For the pre-diagnosis journey, we will examine which groups tend to have higher levels of underdiagnosis, and what kind of presentations undiagnosed Autistics may have, and why people may seek a diagnosis. We will then look at the diagnostic process, including common issues and concerns that appear and the pros and cons of diagnosis. You will learn practical ways that you can support Autistic adults during this phase.
For the post diagnosis journey, we will look at how you can support Austics with building Autistic identity, grieving in the post diagnosis phase, connecting with neurokin and how they can feel empowered. We will also focus on breaking the burn out-cycle, which is essential for every Autistic adult.
WHO IS THIS TRAINING FOR
This training has been designed with counsellors and psychotherapists in mind. But anyone who regularly works with Autistic adults or uses counselling skills as part of their profession will benefit from this training.
FEATURES OF PRESENTATION
This is an interactive and hands on online workshop where you will gain knowledge, and practical advice and strategies to work with Autistic adults in a safe and effective way. Combining in depth theory with experiential work and providing ample examples this online workshop will help you learn skills for creating more neurodiversity affirming practices to suit Autistic adults.
- Engaging & evidence based content
- Hands on activities designed to deepen your learning experience
- Lots of practical examples and strategies
I place a cap on the maximum number of attendees. This means that you have the time and space to ask questions and keeps the workshop interactive. This is not a lecture with hundreds of attendees. It means that I can tailor content according to the interests of the group.
COST
I have tried to keep the costs low by keeping extras to a minimum. You can add on extras as suited to your budget. All prices are inclusive of GST.
Live Workshop $150
SPECIAL ACA DISCOUNT RATE: Enter the code ACA2025 at checkout and receive a $50 discount for the live workshop.
Optional extras
You can select these optional extras during checkout.
Online resources – $10
100+ page resource pack delivered to you digitally to download
Includes copy of the slides & worksheets referenced in the presentation
Hard copy of resources – $60
100+ resource pack printed in colour in a folder, shipped to your address
Receive a copy to download as well
A free bonus sensory pack
Group supervision (1.5hrs) – $75
Run by a neurodivergent & qualified supervisor
Limited to 6 attendees
PACFA or ACA membership mandatory for attendance
Groups will run with 2 or more attendees
No refunds available for group supervision
Runs after the workshop: August 9th 12-1:30pm
A separate Zoom link will be sent to you on the day of the workshop
SCHOLARSHIPS Full and part scholarships are available. For more information or to apply please see: https://www.ndats.com.au/scholarships
CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION
A link will be provided to attendees at the end of the workshop to complete an online assessment. After this, you will be able to download a certificate of completion.
If you are an ACA member you will be able to claim 5 OPD points. For other associations, please check your OPD policy
Key Learning Objectives / Outcomes:
LEARNING OUTCOMES
By the end of the workshop you will be able to:
- Describe the complexities around the ability and decisions for Autistic adults to pursue an autism diagnosis
- Apply practical strategies when supporting Autistic adults who are undergoing diagnosis
- Work with Autistic adult in processing their diagnosis, forming their Autistic identity and forging an authentic and sustainable life
Presenter / Provider:
Jacqueline Gibb
Presenter Qualifications:
Master’s of Counselling
Graduate Certificate in Trauma Counselling
Bachelor in Education
Diploma in Community Services
Certificate IV in Youth Work
Certificate IV in Business Management
Certificate of Attainment in Individual and Group Clinical & Professional Supervision
I am an AuDHD therapist, supervisor, writer & educator, working in Canberra. The focus of my counselling work is working with Autistic/ADHD/AuDHD adults as well as people recovering from trauma. This often involves supporting adults through the late diagnosis process for autism & ADHD, as well as providing support through the post-diagnosis phase. I also provide clinical & professional supervision to other Autistic counsellors or those who work with Autistic adults. I also train and provide consultation to organisations on providing neurodiversity affirming services.
Start / End Date
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Registration Instructions:
To register please visit: https://www.trybooking.com/CXAOM
Please enter the code ACA2025 at the checkout to get the special ACA member price of $100 for the workshop.