Autism Masterclass for Parents

How can we recognise Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) in autistic children? We discuss when challenging behaviour can be deemed as Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), and how to recognise it in a child with an autism diagnosis.  Although PDA is not currently formally recognised as part of an autism diagnosis, there is growing evidence showing it can be included in an autism profile. Ann suggests strategies to try at home to help manage the behaviour, getting to the core of the behaviour and how to have conversations with teachers, schools and other institutions to support children. Dr. Ann Ozsivadjian is an Independent Practitioner and Honorary Researcher at King's College London. She is a leading expert in the assessment and treatment of mental health difficulties in ASD, in understanding cognitive pathways to anxiety in ASD, and also working with girls and women on the autism spectrum.

How can support be effectively tailored to autistic children?   We discuss the different types of support that can be tailored to autistic children. A diagnosis can be a key for a parent, unlocking the right support for their child. We discuss interventions such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness, and briefly music, art and occupational therapy.   Dr. Ann Ozsivadjian is an Independent Practitioner and Honorary Researcher at King's College London. She is a leading expert in the assessment and treatment of mental health difficulties in ASD, in understanding cognitive pathways to anxiety in ASD, and also working with girls and women on the autism spectrum.

How can we build a healthy relationship with food whilst understanding the challenges for many autistic children?  Dr. Vicki Ford discusses some difficulties that may arise including ARFID (Avoidant, Restrictive Food Intake Disorder), tips and advice for sensory difficulties and strategies to diffuse conflict at mealtimes. Dr. Vicki Ford is a Clinical Psychologist a specialist in ASD and part of the complex feeding team at Evalina London Children’s Hospital. She’s worked in both community teams and hospital settings now she works in a multidisciplinary team taking referrals from paediatricians primarily in the south-east of England.

How can we recognise mental health issues in autistic children and young people?  In this episode, we discuss anxiety in autistic children and young people, why mental health issues often go untreated, and if depression presents differently in autism. Dr. Ann Ozsivadjian is an Independent Practitioner and Honorary Researcher at King's College London. She is a leading expert in the assessment and treatment of mental health difficulties in ASD, in understanding cognitive pathways to anxiety in ASD, and also working with girls and women on the autism spectrum.

Ann and Marianna discuss issues that may arise for autistic children including the disruption of closing schools, anxiety and obsessive behaviours. They focus on practical tips like how to help manage anxiety, maintain structure and support and explain the situation to young people. Additionally, tips on how to keep well as a parent and reliable sources for coronavirus updates. Dr. Ann Ozsivadjian is an Independent Practitioner and Honorary Researcher at King's College London. She is a leading expert in the assessment and treatment of mental health difficulties in ASD, in understanding cognitive pathways to anxiety in ASD, and also working with girls and women on the autism spectrum. Dr. Marianna Murin is a Chartered Clinical Psychologist and Senior Clinical Tutor at the Anna Freud Centre and University College London. For over twenty years, she has dedicated her work to promoting the psychological well-being of people on the Autism Spectrum and improving understanding of ASD as an international trainer in diagnostics of ASD, lecturer, writer and therapist.

Episode 3 looks at ‘How autism presents differently in girls’, amongst the discussion is the prevalence of autism in girls and the challenges faced. Whether girls get treated differently to boys and what interventions and support are most beneficial.

How can you discover the strengths in your autistic child and empower them? We explore how to identify your child’s ‘superpower’, how to use a strength focused approach to supporting your child and how to empower professional working with your child to do the same. Dr. Ann Ozsivadjian is an Independent Practitioner and Honorary Researcher at King's College London. She is a leading expert in the assessment and treatment of mental health difficulties in ASD, in understanding cognitive pathways to anxiety in ASD, and also working with girls and women on the autism spectrum.

Episode 1 looks at 'Identifying Autism - getting the right diagnosis', and Ann looks at the types and behaviours in children that may get parents/carers to question if their child could be autistic, and what they can do. We are delighted to present this podcast series for parents that is supported by the Association for Child and Adolescent Mental Health. Clinical Partners work nationwide with only the most experienced consultant to ensure you get the best ASD diagnosis and help tailored specifically to your child, as fast as possible. Discover more.