The Curtin University Autism Research Group (CARG) and the Autism Association of Western Australia have pleasure in inviting you to ‘Tapping the Talent’, a free public lecture by Professor Sven Bölte, Director Centre of Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Karolinska Institute and Professor Sonya Girdler, Director of CARG.

Event details

Location: Curtin University, 139 St Georges Terrace, Perth CBD

Date: Tuesday, 20 March 2018

Time: 6 – 8.30 pm

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About the lecture

While people with autism are often described in terms of their difficulties and challenges, there is increasing recognition that they have many strengths and abilities. These strengths and abilities are progressively becoming the focus of innovative approaches to improving outcomes for young people living with autism. This joint lecture will present research on these new frameworks and approaches.

This workshop for parents and carers will provide information on the latest research and best practice strategies on Autism. Key points will include:

• cognitive strengths of people with autism including attention to detail
• strengths and abilities of people with autism
• using a strengths based framework
• employment pathways based on strengths
• creating the right opportunities for skill development
• supporting social skills through group programs (Social Adventurer Program)
• Kontakt Social Skills Program for Teenagers.

About the speakers

Professor Sven Bölte is the Director of the Centre of Neurodevelopmental Disorders at Karolinska Institute in Sweden and is leading work in a partnership with the World Health Organisation aimed at developing a framework to describe disability and functioning in autism. This framework also highlights the unique talents and strengths of people living on the autism spectrum.

Professor Sonya Girdler is the Director of CARG, a research group focused on developing interventions which leverage the strengths and talents of people with autism with the goal of improving pathways to adulthood.

Kelly Milne is an Occupational Therapist who has several years experience working with children, adolescents and adults on the autism spectrum in early intervention, school age services and adult services. Kelly is passionate about using a strengths based approach in all clinical settings and will discuss how the Autism Association are currently using this approach in practice.