Neurodiversity | Autistic Spectrum Conditions (ASC)
With a wide range of skills and knowledge acquired and performed in the last 20+ years, my experience focuses on working, collaborating, and coproducing with young autistic individuals (4-25 yrs) and their families/carers. I have been involved in the development of specialised and person-centred intervention programmes which have looked at the opportunities and strengths presented by autistic individuals. I have been involved in the delivery of training for staff in-service and in other services outside the organization within the Education Directorate.
As a Chartered Principal Practitioner Psychologist and Clinical Lead I always ensured a pro-active approach in all types of situations allowing greater scope for more meaningful activities for autistic individuals and their families/carers. Working on their strengths and talents rather than focussing on their difficulties, has been the core of my work, ensuring that support, advice, choices and empowerment are always at the forefront of every therapeutic and clinical intervention and/or program offered.
The use of Drama, Yoga, Performing Arts as therapeutic and educational tools have encouraged the development in different areas including self-esteem, self-presentation, dealing and coping with anxiety, frustration and stress, emotional self-regulation both with social communication and social interactions.
I have promoted the use of Sport & Exercise Psychology, and Positive Psychology with autistic and neuro-diverse individuals as a way to facilitate harmony between the mind and the body and as a way of reaching a balanced homeostasis for optimal human performance.
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