CatholicCare brings Autism expert to Taree for free information sessions

CatholicCare Social Services Hunter-Manning is proud to bring renowned Autism guru, Dr Tony Attwood to Taree for free information sessions on Friday 3 March.


One session is aimed at parents of children with Autism as well as adults who suspect they may have Autism; while the second session will provide focussed information for clinicians and professionals. Registrations for the sessions were filled in record time, with both sessions reaching full capacity within 48 hours of opening, meaning over 300 locals will attend Dr Attwood's sessions this Friday.


Offered free of charge to the people of the region, the information sessions provide a unique opportunity for locals to gain access to Dr Attwood's expert advice says CatholicCare Clinical Services Manager and psychologist, Tanya Russell:


"Renowned worldwide for his work across Autism Spectrum Disorders, Dr Attwood will provide parents, carers and professionals with valuable insight into recognition of Autism Spectrum Disorder, the assessment process, treatment option and the unique profiles and abilities of boys and girls with Autism,"

 

"A particular focus will be on identifying children (and adults) who "fly under the radar" who may have Autism but are often missed. Many of us are skilled at picking up on the traditional and obvious features of Autism but we at CatholicCare are passionate about "getting it right" for families as we know there are many children who go undiagnosed for many years."

 

"By offering two sessions – dedicated to parents and clinicians, we're hopeful we can connect with a broad cross section of the local community, who may not know where to go for information currently in relation to Autism Spectrum Disorders," Ms Russell said.

 

In addition to offering insight and information, Dr Attwood will also be available to answer questions at both sessions.

 

"Having been interested in Autism Spectrum Disorders for nearly 50 years, I'm passionate about sharing my understanding and working with parents and professionals to help children and adults who have autism,"

 

"In the last few years I have learned so much more about Asperger's syndrome, especially the value of Special Interests in the daily life of those who have Asperger's syndrome, relationships where one partner has Asperger's syndrome and the characteristics of girls and women who have Asperger's syndrome,"

 

"I'm looking forward to sharing my experiences in Autism Spectrum Disorders with the people of the Taree region and being able to connect with them on a personal level through these this week," Dr Attwood said.

 

CatholicCare provides a thorough Autism Assessment Service for children, adolescents and adults utilising gold standard assessment tools. Assessments for the Manning region can be booked by contacting the CatholicCare Taree office on (02) 6539 5900.

 

Media opportunity
What: Autism specialist Dr Tony Attwood information sessions
When: Friday 3 March 2017; session one 9am, session two from 1pm
Where: Club Taree, 121 Wingham Road, Taree
Who: Renowned Autism specialist, Dr Tony Attwood; CatholicCare Clinical Services Manager Tanya Russell; over 300 locals from the Taree region.