2-hour Workshop - Therapists supporting a newly diagnosed self-identifying autistic client
Tickets available now - here on Eventbrite
The workshop focuses on assisting therapists in understanding and addressing the challenges faced by their clients who realise that they are autistic.
Date and time: The workshop is on November 20th from 10 am till 12 noon.
Themes and Key Questions: The central focus of the workshop lies in understanding the challenges faced by autistic adults and what kinds of things arise in the therapy room, such as…
Clients may ask, “Where do I go from here?”
How can they navigate disclosing their diagnosis to others?
Whom should they confide in, and what are the reasons behind these choices?
What are the implications for relationships with their family, partners, and friends?
What rights do autistic individuals have in light of their diagnosis?
How can they approach their workplace to make any reasonable adjustments?
How does this discovery alter their perception of self?
Why do they experience a rollercoaster of emotions during this process?
Clients may often ask, “Can you help me review my life now that I have many new meanings?”
How does the client practice self-care moving forward - what do we need to specifically consider?
They may repeatedly ask you to engage in this line of enquiry, “Why didn’t I know sooner?”
How can they cope with emotions such as rage, disappointment, and grief related to late diagnosis?
What strategies help them get to know themselves anew?
How do they reinterpret their mental health history through an autistic lens?
What changes are needed in their life goals?
They will ask, “Can you help me to unmask and reveal my authentic self - and how do i do it?”
How can they build a new relationship with themselves?
Workshop Structure: The workshop is structured as a 2-hour session, incorporating a mix of slides and presentations, along with interactive group discussions. Trainers, Eoin Stephens and Vauna Beauvais, also address questions presented in the chatbox, fostering engagement and participant involvement. Resources are provided to attendees for further assistance, and participants can have access to workshop slides and a reading list for continuous learning.
Inclusivity and Respect: One of the standout aspects of the workshop is the commitment to inclusivity and respect in the process as much as content. Participants are encouraged to attend as they are, with no pressure to have their cameras on. This approach aligned with the workshop's ethos of supporting diverse lifestyle choices and promoting anti-oppressive, non-harming dialogue. The workshop aims to create an inclusive safe space where every participant is valued and respected.
Summary: The workshop offers a profound exploration of the work that therapists are involved in when they have clients who are newly recognising that they are autistic. By addressing key questions and themes, the workshop equips therapists with valuable insights and practical tools to provide effective support. The commitment to inclusivity and respect ensures that this workshop is a valuable resource for professionals in the field of psychotherapy, counselling, and healthcare.