Course | Autism and Sensory Processing, 3 Hours

Price

Original price: AU$140

About the Speakers

Professor Tony Attwood and Dr Michelle Garnett are considered as internationally recognised experts in autism, with a combined knowledge and experience of over 80 years as clinical psychologists, authors, researchers and consultants.

1. Dr Michelle Garnett PhD
Dr Michelle Garnett is a clinical psychologist with more than 30 years of specialisation in autism. In 2005, she founded Minds & Hearts, a clinic specialising in 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, Michelle 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.

Michelle 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. Michelle is autistic and has ADHD, late diagnosed.

2. 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, Tony's impact has enriched the global understanding of autism.

Alongside Dr Michelle Garnett, Tony 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, Tony 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.

Description

Recorded in August 2024.

This course describes the sensory pain and pleasure experienced by autistic individuals throughout their lifespan. It explains relevant theoretical models and analysis of sensory experiences, including synaesthesia, interoception and alexithymia, quotations describing sensory sensitivity and its effect on quality of life, association with anxiety, eating disorders and depression, as well as a review of assessment instruments. Also included are descriptions of resources, ways of reducing and accommodating sensory sensitivity, and how some sensory experiences can improve quality of life.

Purpose

This presentation aims to help participants understand why autism is associated with sensory sensitivity and its effects on everyday life, to know the assessment instruments for sensory sensitivity and to explore coping mechanisms and how some sensory experiences can be extremely enjoyable.

Who Will Benefit?

- Autistic People 14+
Suitable for Autistic people over 14 years old.

- Parents & Carers
Including extended family, support workers, friends and others supporting autistic individuals.

-Education Professionals
Including Teachers, Teacher’s Aides, Principals, Deputy Principals, Administrative Staff, Guidance Officers, and School Counsellors.

- Health Professionals

Learning Objectives

1. Understand the sensory perception associated with autism.
2. Know the various instruments that can be used to measure the sensory profile.
3. Appreciate the effects of sensory sensitivity in daily life.
4. Identify adaptive and maladaptive coping mechanisms.
5. Recognise the interaction of sensory sensitivity and anxiety and its potential contribution to an eating disorder, social isolation and depression.
6. How sensory sensitivity can be used constructively for a career in the arts and as a soothing and enjoyable experience.

This Course Includes
- 3 hours video content
- Downloadable handouts
- 60 days access to course content from the date of purchase
- Certificate of completion
- CPD hours (Continuing Professional Development)

Cancellation/Refund Policy

You will have access to the course content for 60 days from the date of purchase/enrolment, accessed via your online account. Please refer to Attwood & Garnett Events' FAQs for further information.

NDIS Funding

If you have funding available in your plan for Parent/Carer training, or psychological services (training), you may be able to use your funding to purchase this course. If unsure, please check with your support coordinator (or alike).

Self Managed: You can purchase the course directly through Attwood & Garnett Events' website, as you will receive an invoice upon completion of your purchase.

Plan Managed: Please email Attwood & Garnett Events so they can send the invoice directly to your plan manager. Information required for your invoice includes: NDIS Participant Name, NDIS Reference Number, Plan Manager’s details, and name and email address of person attending.