West Region - New Diagnosis Adult Group

This eight-week support group is facilitated by Registered Psychotherapist, Heather Sansom, PhD. Heather was diagnosed on the spectrum in her late 40’s. As a psychotherapist, she works with autistic clients in both ‘office’ and creative/nature/animal assisted approaches. She identifies positively with neurodiversity, describing her approach as strengths-based. Many late-diagnosed autistic people have experienced a difficult journey, sometimes including misdiagnosis, anxiety, depression and other responses to sensory overload, not knowing they were atypical in a neurotypical (NT) world. The process of realization, seeking assessment, and diagnosis is often experienced as both world-shaking, and relieving. Autistic people need coping skills for navigating an NT world, managing and reducing meltdowns/shutdowns, and growing confidence. 

These sessions will include helpful information and opportunity to share your experience with other atypical peers.  Once registration is complete, participants will remain a closed group for the duration of the series to ensure comfort and privacy.   A short survey and a confidential from will be sent to each participate and need to be return by the date provided.   This group is not for individuals in a mental health crisis.   This group will start on Tuesday June 7th until July 26th.  

BIO:  Heather Sansom, PhD.  Heather was diagnosed on the spectrum in her late 40's.  She has run a sports group for autistic and children with disabilities in her former work as a recreation therapist.   As a psychotherapist, she works with autistic clients in both ‘office’ and creative/nature/animal assisted approaches.   She identifies positively with neurodiversity, describing her approach to psychotherapy as strengths-based.   

A zoom link for this activities will be sent closer to the activity date.  

If you have a any questions or concerns, please email us at livia@autismontario.com