(HS Saunders 059288 2023) Mindfulness-based Interventions for use in the Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder

Course overview

Over the years, worldwide awareness and understanding of autism spectrum disorder has grown to the point where children are more likely to be identified and diagnosed at a much earlier age. What this means, additionally, is that an increasing number of adults are also being identified for the very first time in their lives. As a spectrum diagnosis, the symptoms and presentation of autism can fly easily under the radar and you may find yourself with autistic clients just forming their initial understanding. With close to 50% of autistic individuals reporting co-occurring anxiety disorders, clients have likely struggled with self-esteem & belonging, rigid thinking and confusion about social interactions. Mindfulness exercises have been shown to help autistic clients reduce anxiety, increase social/emotional reciprocity, reduce rumination and increase emotional regulation. This course will provide an in-depth look at social and emotional impacts for adults living with level one ASD and how mindfulness interventions can provide a useful shift. Specific mindfulness exercises will be provided for use in your clinical practice.