Counselling Autistic Adults: The Diagnostic Journey

Autistic adults face unique issues and require specific support in both the pre & post diagnosis journey. Many counsellors do not feel confident in counselling Autistic adults. This is an underserviced population in the counselling space, with a lot of focus existing on the needs of Autistic children and/or with a very deficit approach. This has led to Autistic adults experiencing ineffective or even harmful treatments. Additionally, many Autistic adults are put into the position of providing education to their mental health professionals about autism or the implications of and around diagnosis.

This is a 2hr live online interactive workshop for counsellors + other allied health professionals, filled with hands on strategies to support Autistic adults in every step of the diagnostic process

• Learn how to provide guidance and support to adults seeking an autism diagnosis
• Learn about the post-diagnosis phases
• Support Autistic adults post-diagnosis

For the pre-diagnosis journey, we will examine which groups tend to have higher levels of underdiagnosis, and what kind of presentations undiagnosed Autistics may have, and why people may seek a diagnosis.  We will then look at the diagnostic process, including common issues and concerns that appear and the pros and cons of diagnosis.  You will learn practical ways that you can support Autistic adults during this phase. 

For the post diagnosis journey, we will look at how you can support Austics with building Autistic identity, grieving in the post diagnosis phase, connecting with neurokin and how they can feel empowered.  We will also focus on breaking the burn out-cycle, which is essential for every Autistic adult.

WHO IS THIS TRAINING FOR

This training has been designed with counsellors and psychotherapists in mind.  But anyone who regularly works with Autistic adults or uses counselling skills as part of their profession will benefit from this training.  

LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of the workshop you will be able to: 

• Describe the complexities around the ability and decisions for Autistic adults to pursue an autism diagnosis
• Apply practical strategies when supporting Autistic adults who are undergoing diagnosis
• Work with Autistic adult in processing their diagnosis, forming their Autistic identity and forging an authentic and sustainable life

FEATURES OF PRESENTATION 

This is an interactive and hands on online workshop where you will gain knowledge, and practical advice and strategies to work with Autistic adults in a safe and effective way.  Combining in depth theory with experiential work and providing ample examples this online workshop will help you learn skills for creating more neurodiversity affirming practices to suit Autistic adults.

• Engaging & evidence-based content
• Hands on activities designed to deepen your learning experience
• Lots of practical examples and strategies

COST

I have tried to keep the costs low by keeping extras to a minimum.  You can add on extras as suited to your budget.  All prices are inclusive of GST.

Live workshop $150

Optional extras

1.  Online resources - $10
   • 60+ page resource pack delivered to you digitally to download
   • Includes copy of the slides & worksheets referenced in the presentation
   • Online resources are sent before the workshop
      
2.  Hard copy of resources - $50
   • 60+ resource pack printed in colour in a folder, shipped to your address
   • Receive a copy to download as well
   • A free bonus sensory pack 
      
3. Group supervision (1.5hrs) - $60
   • Run by a neurodivergent & qualified supervisor 
   • Limited to 6 attendees
   • PACFA or ACA membership mandatory for attendance
   • Groups will run with 2 or more attendees
   • No refunds available for group supervision 
   • Runs after the workshop: August 9th 2025 12-1:30pm
   • A separate Zoom link will be sent to you on the day of the workshop

SCHOLARSHIPS
Full and part scholarships are available.  For more information or to apply please see: https://www.ndats.com.au/scholarships

CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION
A link will be provided to attendees a the end of the workshop to complete an online assessment.  After this, you will be able to download a certificate of completion.  

If you are an ACA member you will be able to claim 5* OPD points.  For other associations, please check your ODP policy.  

ABOUT THE PRESENTER

I am an AuDHD therapist, supervisor, writer & educator, working in Canberra.  The focus of my counselling work is working with Autistic/ADHD/AuDHD adults as well as people recovering from trauma.  This often involves supporting adults through the late diagnosis process for autism & ADHD, as well as providing support through the post-diagnosis phase.   I also provide clinical & professional supervision to other Autistic counsellors or those who work with Autistic adults.   I also train and provide consultation to organisations on providing neurodiversity affirming services

Read more about me here

Contact Event Organiser

WORKSHOP REQUIREMENTS

Please note that you'll need access to the following to participate in this workshop:  

• Desktop or laptop computer  

• Reliable internet connection  

• Headphones recommended  

• Microphone/speakers  

• Webcam 

CANCELLATION POLICY

Workshop 

• Cancellation with more than 48hrs notice - refund of 80%
• Cancellation with less than 48hrs notice - no refund available 

Resources

• If resources have not yet been dispatched a 100% refund is available  

Group Supervision

• No refund is available for cancellations