Provincial - New Diagnosis Adult Group
This six-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 in a closed group for the duration of the series to ensure comfort and privacy.
A short survey and a confidential form will be sent to each participant and need to be returned by the date provided.
This group is not for individuals in a mental health crisis.
This group will start on Wednesday October 19th, 26th, November 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
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 the activity will be sent closer to the activity date.
ON
Canada
# of Autistic Adults (16+) |
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
# of Adult Siblings |
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
# of Parents/Caregivers |
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |