Description
Description
Research shows that autistic people who embrace their autism enjoy mental health benefits like increased well-being. However, many autistic teenagers and adults struggle to know who they are due to masking and camouflaging and consequently suffer low-self-esteem, loneliness and depression. It can be difficult to embrace being autistic in a community that largely misunderstands autism and where being autistic still carries a negative stigma. In this half-day workshop, we describe the potential barriers to developing a positive identity as an autistic person, ways to overcome these barriers, and strategies we have developed to assist the autistic person to discover and enjoy their authentic self. The content is relevant for all ages.
Testimonials
“Thank you so much for your honesty & compassion & obvious dedication to improving our life experience & that of our children through knowledge & understanding.”
“You are both Brilliant speakers.”
“Thank you again. I am a serial listener of your podcasts. I feel better equipped to help my clients. My thanks again.”
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 recognise barriers to developing a positive self-identity for an autistic person, including stigma, lack of an understanding of autism, bullying and abuse, and overuse of masking and camouflaging.
Understand ways to overcome each of these barriers.
Learn the value of terminology and how changing how we talk about concepts changes the way we think about them.
Know strategies for being patient with people who do not understand autism and how to assist them to learn.
Learn practices that assist autistic people to unmask safely thus preserving their energy and increasing their self-knowledge.
Learn strategies to develop a better sense of self for yourself and/or your child.
Develop practices to increase self-awareness and self-compassion.
Learn strategies to uncover autistic strengths and challenges for yourself, your child, student or client.
Develop an understanding of how autistic strengths can assist autistic people to overcome their challenges.
What You Will Receive
- Access to the online recording for 60 days following the date of the event. A once-off 30-day extension is available. See our FAQs for further information.
- A Live Chat Room for Q&A with Tony & Michelle throughout the day
- Downloadable Handouts to complement the course
- Certificate of Attendance upon request.
Within 24 hours, you will receive an email with your login credentials for the new 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 that you do not miss anything from us.
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 Cancellations: Up to 7 days notice payment will be refunded, minus a $50 administrative fee. At less than 7 days notice there will be no refund, but a credit note with Attwood and Garnett Events for future events, minus $50, will be issued. Attendance is fully transferable.
