ONLINE COURSE: Trauma and Autistic Adults

$99.00

Details

  • 3 hours (recorded October 2024)
  • You have 60 days from the date of purchase to complete the course. A once-off 30-day extension is available*. See our FAQs for further information.
  • Downloadable PDFs
  • A Certificate of Completion is available upon request
  • Suitable for professionals

Description

Autistic individuals are both more likely to experience trauma and to develop Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) after experiencing trauma. In this half-day event, we describe current research on the association of autism with trauma for autistic adults, the recognition of the types of traumas they have experienced and the impact of trauma on the autistic person’s daily life, family, friendships, relationships and mental health. We will also provide strategies for support and therapy. Our presentation is based on recent relevant research and our combined 80 years of experience in autism. 

Whilst the themes and content description for this event and our Trauma and Autistic Children and Teens events are similar, please note that we have divided the content by age because the research, case examples, impacts, types of support and strategies for each age group differ. As a result, the events are quite different from each other. 

Who will benefit

  • Autistic adults, their family, friends and their partner.  
  • Health professionals, including psychologists, psychiatrists, Counsellors, GPs, social workers, mental health nurses, and nurse practitioners – mental health. 

 

Do you or your adult child have NDIS Funding?

If you are self-managed or plan-managed and psychology/parent education is in the Plan you can use your NDIS funding to attend this event.

Description

The purpose of this presentation is to increase understanding of the association between trauma and autism for adults. 

Autistic individuals are both more likely to experience trauma and to develop Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) after experiencing trauma. In this half-day event, we describe current research on the association of autism with trauma for autistic adults, the types of traumas they may have experienced, and recognition of potential trauma and the impact on the autistic adult’s daily life, family and friendships and relationships, and mental health. We provide strategies for understanding, support and therapy. Our presentation is based on recent relevant research and our combined 80 years of experience in autism. 

Learning Process 

The course includes explanations, discussion, and Q&A. Participants can attend via an internet link to a live presentation and will have access to a chat room where they can ask questions at any time. There is an opportunity to learn from workshop participants and the trainers. 

Testimonials

“The input helped me a lot to understand myself better and find hope to navigate the situation. Thanks for your excellent professional and kindly authentic personal input! Seeing you brings hope back that a lot is possible.” 

“Your optimism and absolutely huge amount of knowledge really is enlightening, and you present a difficult subject with such positivity for what can be done to help and understand. Your training is so empowering. Enormous thanks. The world definitely needs the two of you x”

“Very interesting and engaging. The life experience was very useful. And very neuroaffirming.”

“I love how you both complement each other when you present! And I love that you are both so quiet and gentle in your presentations, it’s very validating.”

About the speakers

Prof Tony Attwood PhD With a remarkable career spanning five decades, Professor Tony Attwood is one of the world’s foremost specialists on Autism. Holding an Honour’s degree in Psychology from the University of Hull, a Master’s degree in clinical psychology from the University of Surrey, and a PhD from the University of London, his credentials are a testament to his expertise. Currently serving as an adjunct Professor at Griffith University in Queensland, Professor Attwood’s impact has enriched the global understanding of autism.

Alongside Dr Michelle Garnett, Professor Attwood co-founded Attwood & Garnett Events in 2019, driven by the shared goal of enhancing autism awareness and understanding. Their shared vision seeks to reshape the narrative surrounding autism to create a world where autism is embraced, and the diverse strengths, talents, and perspectives of autistic individuals are celebrated. This transformative narrative fosters a more inclusive and accepting society, benefitting all its members.

Renowned for his extensive contributions to understanding Asperger’s Syndrome, now commonly referred to as autism, Professor Attwood has authored numerous publications on the subject. His seminal book, Asperger’s Syndrome: A Guide for Parents and Professionals debuted in 1998, resonated globally and has since found its voice in over 25 languages, making his insights accessible across cultures and continents.

With a dedicated commitment to practical application, he has run a private practice for 30 years, only recently closing his books due to a long waiting list. Beyond his clinical work, he dedicates significant time to travel, sharing insights and knowledge through workshops and seminars across national and international platforms.

 

Dr Michelle Garnett PhD is a clinical psychologist with more than 30 years of specialising in autism. In 2005, she founded Minds & Hearts, a clinic specialised to autism, where she served as Clinical and Managing Director for 14 years until 2019. Alongside Tony Attwood she co-founded Attwood & Garnett Events in 2019, aiming to enhance autism awareness and understanding with a vision to foster a neuro-affirming community.
In addition to her extensive private practice, Dr Garnett has significantly contributed to autism research, authored influential books, and engaged in impactful speaking engagements. Her peer-reviewed research has informed our understanding of early autism identification, the female autism profile, and the link between mental health and positive outcomes in autistic individuals. She has co-authored six respected books on autism, including the influential Spectrum Women: Walking to the Beat of Autism (2018) with Barb Cook, a seminal work on the female autism experience. Her recent books, Having Fun with Feelings on the Autism Spectrum and Ten Steps to Reducing Your Child’s Anxiety on the Autism Spectrum offer invaluable guidance to parents of young autistic children.
Dr Garnett is a sought-after presence in academic circles, presenting as a Keynote Speaker at conferences and conducting workshops, seminars, and training sessions on autism across Australia, the UK, and Europe. Her influence extends to universities, autism organisations, government, and non-governmental bodies, solidifying her reputation as a prominent figure in the autism field. Dr Garnett is autistic and has ADHD, late diagnosed.

Learning Objectives

Understand why the effects of trauma can be missed in autistic adults. 

Knowledge about the types of trauma that can cause PTSD for an autistic person. 

Increase knowledge about recent research on the association of trauma and autism. 

Knowledge about Polyvagal theory and its relevance for understanding the association between anxiety, trauma and autism. 

Know the similarities and differences between autism and the psychological effects of trauma. 

Know how trauma can affect mental health.  

Understand issues that can arise for an autistic adult at work, in their family and within friendships and relationships due to trauma. 

Learn strategies that can help in supporting an autistic adult who has experienced trauma/s. 

Know when to seek professional help and the types of assistance available to help resolve and heal from trauma/s. 

What You Will Receive

  • The Online Course runs for 3 hours
  • Downloadable Handouts to complement the course
  • Certificate of Attendance upon request.
  • Access to the content for 60 days from the date of purchase (accessed via the Member Dashboard). A once-off 30-day extension is available*. See our FAQs for further information.

Within 24 hours, you will receive an email with your login credentials for the Member Dashboard. The email will come from events@attwoodandgarnettevents.com and may go to your junk/spam/promotions folders.

If you haven’t received these details after 48 hours, please email events@attwoodandgarnettevents.com. Alternatively, add newsletter@attwoodandgarnettevents.com as a contact in your email contact list to ensure you do not miss anything from us.

Discounts

Please Note: The quickest and easiest way to book is online.

Discount: If you are a full time student requiring a discount please enquire about our student rate and send in a photocopy of your student ID card or if you are facing hardship please email events@attwoodandgarnettevents.com to apply for a discount.