Creating a neurodivergent-affirming autism practice

As a late-diagnosed AuDHD woman, who writes extensively for Psychology Today about the experiences of autistic women, neurodivergence is a subject I’m passionate about.
There are several courses currently in development and I’d like to introduce you to Adaptive Therapy for Autistic Adults - ATTA®. This training is aimed towards hypnotherapists who want to work with clients who have Level 1 Autism (previously known as Asperger’s Syndrome) and establish a neurodivergent-affirming practice.
This group of clients frequently find they “fall trough the gaps” in terms of therapy and coaching, with therapists who are not skilled to view their situation from a neurodivergent perspective. These client often do not present as noticeably autistic and often have careers, families and a range of responsibilities. They can find that specialist therapy isn’t geared towards what they need.
ATAA® teaches you how to establish a neurodivergent-affirming practice, and to communicate effectively with your clients, whilst learning how to approach their experiences from an accepting, self-compassionate perspective, all the while looking through an autistic lens.
As more and more clients are diagnosed with Autism, ADHD and other neurodivergent conditions - or are choosing to self-identify - the demand for neurodivergent-affirming practices keeps rising. This course ensures you have the skills to keep up with the growth in demand.
Enrol on ATAA® self-paced training here UK (prices GBP)
Enrol on ATAA® self-paced training here US (prices USD)
Autistic Therapy Training Curriculum
Online. Self-paced. Includes optional assignments, feedback and support. Accredited Certification on completion.
Section 1: Welcome and Introduction
- Certification, Assignments and Course Navigation
- Welcome and Introduction
- Who is This Course Intended For?
- ATAA® Practitioner Status
- Accessing Course Materials
- About the Author
- A Note on Terminology
- Copyright Statement
- Learning Outcomes
Section 2: What is Level 1 Autism?
- Overview
- What is Life Like for Someone With Level 1 Autism?
- Autistic Traits
- From Linear to Pie Chart Model
- Camouflaging
- Late Diagnosis
- Women's Autism
- DSM-5 Diagnostic Criteria
Section 3: Is My Client Autistic?
- Signs That May Indicate Autism
- How to Direct a Potentially Autistic Client
- Screening Tests
Section 4: Adult Autistic People's Therapeutic Needs
- Overview
- Mental Health Issues
- Alexithymia
- Meltdowns
- Shutdowns
- Friendship Issues
- Issues in Romantic Relationships
- Workplace Issues
- Making Sense of the Past
- Addiction
- Burnout
- Autistic Strengths
Section 5: Limitations of Therapeutic Approaches
- Overview
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
- Person Centred Therapy
- Psychodynamic Therapy
- Solution-focused Therapy
Section 6: Therapeutic Communication
- Overview
- Creating Rapport
- Session Structure and Content
- Metaphors and Literal Language
- Issues With Verbal Communication
- Vagueness and the Big Picture
- Misreading the Therapist's Cues
- Misreading the Client's Cues
- Client Cognitive Inflexibility and Communication
- Asking for Assistance
- Sustaining Conversation and Pacing Sessions
- Expressing Emotions
- Discussing Interests
Section 7: Practical Therapeutic Needs
- Sensory Processing
- Pacing Sessions
- Involving a Family Member
Section 8: ATAA Protocol
- Overview
- Communication
- Education
- Emotional Regulation
- Identifying Skills and Abilities
- Adapting Goals and Solutions
- Acceptance
- ATAA Case Studies
Course PDF
- Course PDF
Website Resources
- Website Text
- Website Resources
- ATAA® logo
References
- References
Client Resources & Handouts
- Autism in the Workplace
Included in your course...
Video demonstrations
Learn the techniques by watching Claire demonstrate them with clients.
Client resources
Whether you are an experienced hypnotherapist, or work with women in a different way, you'll find all the client resources, including forms, handouts, scripts and recordings, to work effectively with your clients.
Optional assignments
You have a choice of working through the course material in your own time and, on completion of the course, contacting me to issue your certificate. Alternatively, if you wish to have further support, you are welcome to complete and submit assignments for marking.
Self-paced learning
You can complete this course at your own pace and are asked to submit your assignments within six months.
Free certificate in hypnotherapy
If hypnotherapy isn't your primary modality, you can access our Certificate in Hypnotherapy course free of charge. This course is designed to offer you an overview of hypnotherapy theory and techniques but it is not designed to qualify you as a hypnotherapist. If you wish to train as a fully qualified hypnotherapist, you are advised to complete a CNHC Accredited Diploma in Clinical Hypnotherapy.
Online portal access
You will have access to an online learning portal for twelve months from purchase of your course. Written materials can be downloaded so that you have permanent access to them.
Business support
You will receive advice and support in marketing your services and images, text and logos to launch your HypnoMenopause® service.
CPD hours
You have a choice of completing the course without assignments, by working through the online course materials. This counts for 8 hours CPD or CE. If you prefer to complete assignments, which you receive feedback on, this counts for 15 hours CPD or CE. Both options are accredited by the ACCPH.

