Autism Plus: Co-occurring Conditions and Cognitive Theories

Evidence Base: Many parents, carers and professionals attend ‘Understanding Autism’ workshops and courses as an introduction to the Autism spectrum but seek a greater understanding in relation to their children’s needs. Many young people with Autism require targeted or specialist support to feel understood, confident, and happy.

Objective: Parents, carers and professionals feel confident to support a young person with Autism and have secured a much deeper understanding of how autism presents, including the interaction between Autism and other co-occurring diagnoses which may present as complex needs.

Workshop Content:

• What is a Complex Need in relation to Autism?
• Theory of Mind
• Central Cohesion
• Executive Functioning
• Monotropism
• Person Centred Planning

Learning Outcomes:

• Gain a deeper understanding of the Autism spectrum and how complex needs may arise
• Gain an understanding of co-occurring diagnoses and their impact
• Recognise and understand physiological theories and their relation to young people in their care
• Develop a sense of community with other parents, carers and professionals
• Understand and explore approaches and strategies to help young people with autism and complex needs