Description
Masterclass Day 2 provides information on support and therapy to develop a positive sense of self, enhance strategies for self-advocacy, executive functioning, emotion understanding and regulation, to improve friendship and relationship abilities from early childhood to the adult years, and how aspects of autism can contribute to a successful career. Adaptations to conventional therapy will be explained to accommodate the profile of abilities and experiences of autistic girls and women in the treatment of common clinical presentations including anxiety and depression, eating disorders, and gender dysphoria.
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 understand the reasons for problems with emotion perception, expression, and regulation for autistic girls and women.
Recognition of the effects of alexithymia, impaired interoception and empathic attunement on the ability to experience and express emotions.
To know how to adapt therapy to maximise therapeutic effectiveness for autistic girls and women.
To learn strategies to treat anxiety and depression in autistic girls and women.
Understand issues regarding self-identity and low self-esteem for autistic girls and women and strategies to enhance the concept of self.
Learn therapeutic activities to enhance self-concept and self-esteem for autistic girls and women.
Strategies for increasing self-advocacy skills for teens and women.
Understand how Polyvagal theory can facilitate emotion management.
Understand issues and strategies regarding vulnerability to bullying, teasing and social and sexual abuse.
Understand and manage executive functioning skills.
Learn strategies to develop friendship skills in childhood, adolescence and the adult years.
Choose resources to improve social reasoning abilities from childhood through to the adult years.
To gain an understanding of the challenges and potential solutions for autistic women in achieving and maintaining meaningful employment, long-term relationships and being a mother.
Discounts/Cancellation/Refund Policy
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.
For In the Room Cancellations: Up to 7 days notice for cancellation payment will be refunded, minus a £100 administrative fee per day to cover catering and administrative costs. At less than 7 days notice there will be no refund, but a credit note with Attwood and Garnett Events for future events, minus £100 per day, will be issued. Attendance is fully transferable.
For Webcast Cancellations: Up to 7 days notice for cancellation payment will be refunded, minus a £25 administrative fee to cover administrative costs. At less than 7 days notice there will be no refund, but a credit note with Attwood and Garnett Events for future events, minus £100, will be issued. Attendance is fully transferable.