Training for those working with teens or young adults with ASD

Do you care or work with young people with an autism spectrum disorder?

Autism Asperger ACT is proud to present a 1 day workshop run by Katharine Annear (manager of the State wide Autism Project - Autism SA)

This workshop will explore the difficulties facing adolescents and young adults on the autism spectrum as they transition to a new phase in their lives. Paying particular attention to mental health and social development the workshop will outline strategies to foster resilience and increase social connections for young people.

Recent Studies have shown that as many as 70% of young people with ASD have experienced an episode of depression and 56% have an anxiety disorder. It is important to understand that there are a range of practical strategies that can be utilised to help teens and young adults manage their emotions and decrease the likelihood of mood and anxiety disorders becoming a controlling factor in their day to day lives. Strategies explored will include:

. Relaxation
. Planned physical activity
. Mindfulness
. Cognitive defusion - deliteralisation
. Visuals

Social isolation is something that concerns parents in particular as their children with ASD age. Balancing a range of perspectives on friendship and keeping the young person at the centre of planning for future relationships is always a challenge. During this workshop a range of practical strategies will be explored for increasing skills and options in this area - including:

. Mentoring
. iModeling
. Group programs

Workshop: Adolescents and young people with Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Transitioning to a meaningful life

Facilitator: Katharine Annear (Autism SA)
Date: Thursday 25 August 2011
Time: 9am - 3pm
Venue: Southern Cross Club (JAMISON)
Address: Cnr Catchpole & Bowman Sts, Macquarie, ACT

Registration: www.autismaspergeract.com.au

Prices: $90 parent carer (early bird rate $80)
professional/teacher $125 (early bird rate$115). Morning tea and lunch provided.