Workshop Description
We are pleased to announce our professional development workshop titled “Working with Autistic Clients: A Neuro-Diversity Affirming Approach,” designed for therapists and allied professionals. This workshop is the culmination of a collaborative effort with Autistic professionals and is committed to prioritising Autistic voices throughout the programme.
The workshop, spanning a five-hour session, aims to provide participants with an understanding of Autism from a neuro-diversity affirming perspective. It is structured to facilitate a deep and empathetic understanding of the Autistic experience, challenging participants to reflect on and evolve their professional practices.
This workshop is not only an educational opportunity but also a call to action for professionals to become allies in the movement towards a society that fully embraces neuro-diversity. Participants will leave with practical tools and a renewed mindset that honours the Autistic community.
We invite you to join us in taking a significant step towards enhancing your professional practice in alignment with neuro-diversity affirming principles.
Content
1. Understanding Autism:
– Engage with the fundamental question, “What is Autism?” through a lens that respects and values neuro-diversity.
2. Self-Reflection on Unconscious Bias:
– Identify and address your own unconscious assumptions and prejudices to foster a more inclusive therapeutic environment.
3. Challenging Neuro-Normative Paradigms:
– Explore ways to challenge neuro-normative ways of thinking about Autism and embrace a spectrum of neuro-diverse experiences.
4. Beyond the Linear Model:
– Consider a non-linear model of Autism that moves away from the damaging ‘mild-to-severe’ continuum.
5. Neuro-Affirming Theories:
– Delve into neuro-affirming theories of Autism, including the concept of monotropism and the double empathy problem.
6. The Autistic Experience:
– Gain insights into the lived experiences of Autistic individuals, encompassing stimming, sensory processing, the consequences of masking, burnout, and the pervasive impact of systemic abuse and ableism.
7. Crafting a Neuro-Affirming Therapeutic Approach:
– Learn how to use affirming language and adapt your therapy space to be more accessible.
– Rethink your therapeutic model to incorporate a neuro-diversity affirming approach.
– Make epoché, the suspension of judgement, a cornerstone of your practice.
– Integrate pluralism into your approach to cater to the diverse needs of Autistic clients.
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