ONLINE COURSE: Autism and Sleep

$99.00

Purpose

Our brand-new event, Sleep and Autism, was specifically designed to help autistic children, adolescents and adults improve their ability to fall asleep as well as their duration and quality of sleep. Participants will learn why autistic individuals struggle to fall asleep and stay asleep. Strategies from the latest research, clinical practice and autistic individuals themselves will be shared. 

Who Will Benefit?

  • Autistic adolescents and adults
  • Parents, carers, and partners
  • Health professionals, including psychologists, occupational therapists, speech pathologists, social workers, counsellors, GPs, paediatricians, psychiatrists, mental health nurses, nurse practitioners – mental health and developmental educators.

Course Details

  • 3 hours 4 mins
  • 60 days to complete course (from date of purchase). A once-off 30-day extension is available. See our FAQs for further information.
  • Downloadable PDFs
  • Certificate of completion

Does your Child or Adolescent have NDIS Funding?

If you are self-managed or third party-managed and parent education is in the Plan you may be able to use your NDIS funding to attend this event.

Please email events@attwoodandgarnettevents.com for options available.

Description

One of the central characteristics of autism, confirmed from clinical experience and research, is a difficulty achieving an age-appropriate sleep cycle. As clinicians we frequently explore an autistic individual’s ability to fall asleep and factors that disrupt the duration, depth, and quality of sleep. We recognise that a good night’s sleep is extremely valuable in encouraging concentration and emotion regulation for the following day. 

We now have effective strategies to improve an autistic person’s sleep and resolve issues such as an autistic child sleeping with a parent, which can be disruptive for the whole family.

We will cover:

  • The function of sleep
  • The expected sleep cycle and stages of sleep throughout the life span
  • Research and clinical experience on sleep issues associated with autism
  • Aspects of autism that affect sleep such as sensory sensitivity, anxiety, melatonin metabolism
  • Sleep education programmes
  • Behavioral interventions for sleep
  • Sleep advice from autistic adolescents

Webcast Process: The webcast includes didactic teaching and Q&A.  Participants attend via link to a live presentation.  They have access to a chat room where they can ask questions at any time. There is opportunity to learn from workshop participants, as well as the trainers.

Event Trailer.

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

  • To be able to describe the different aspects of autism that affect sleep.
  • To know the latest research on sleep difficulties and autism.
  • To be able to list several key components to strategies for sleep that are most effective, and know how to implement these strategies.
  • To know when further investigation of sleep is warranted.
  • To gain advice from autistic adolescents who have suffered sleep problems and found success.

Discounts/Cancellation/Refund Policy

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.

For refund enquiries please email events@attwoodandgarnettevents.com