For paediatricians, psychiatrists, psychologists, occupational therapists, speech language therapists, and health professionals wanting to build their expertise in autism diagnosis.

This workshop is designed for allied health professionals seeking to strengthen their competence in autism assessment within the Aotearoa New Zealand context.

Autism diagnostic pathways and protocols vary widely across Aotearoa. This interactive workshop is evidence-based, aligned with New Zealand guidance, and considering cultural frameworks, provides practical guidance on diagnostic formulation and assessment for autism. Participants will engage in conversations that develop an understanding of good practice, considering our cultural context, responsive assessment and feedback.

Discussions will focus on real-world applications of:

• NZ Guidance, diagnostic criteria and their clinical application
• Multidisciplinary pathways and referral processes in NZ
• Assessment process across the lifespan, including use and limitations of common assessment tools
• Differential diagnosis and co-occurring presentations
• Delivering feedback in a neurodiversity-affirming and culturally responsive way

This course supports clinicians working in child development services, CAMHS, private practice, disability services, and primary care.

Your trainer

Nicola Gillan, clinical psychologist and Director – Massey University Psychology Clinic, Wellington. Nicola has been using the ADOS and ADI-R in complex, multi-disciplinary assessments and in a research context for over 18 years. She provided training in the UK from 2013 until her move to New Zealand in 2022.less