Individuals often seek counselling to navigate challenges and foster growth. However, when it comes to working with individuals with autism, Wellness counsellors, Teachers and even families may often feel uncertain about how to address the unique behavioural dynamics, communication barriers, and family impacts effectively. These challenges can leave both wellness counsellors and families feeling overwhelmed, unsure of how to foster meaningful progress, and frustrated by the lack of effective strategies.

“Autism Awareness: a Journey of Understanding” is a dedicated training course for participants who aim to deepen their understanding of autism and its profound influence on individuals and their families. This course goes beyond the surface-level knowledge, offering insights into the complexities of autism – including behavioural challenges, communication struggles and the effects on family dynamics. Through practical strategies, case studies, and engaging group discussions, participants will gain hands-on knowledge to help clients and families manage these challenges with empathy and skill.

By the end of the training, attendees will feel empowered to approach autism with confidence, compassion, and the skills needed to guide individuals and families toward sustainable change.

Course Outline:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder defined by the DSM-5
• Low & High functioning Autism – level 1,2 and 3 according to the DSM-5
• The Myths and Facts relating to Autism
• Understanding the Behavioural Challenges associated with Autism
• Understanding and Applying strategies in real-life settings
• The effects of Autism on Family Dynamics
• Role as a Wellness/Specialist Wellness Counsellors

About the Presenter

Hi there! I am Danielle du Plessis, a dedicated Specialist Wellness Counsellor registered with the Association for Supportive Counsellors and Holistic Practitioners (ASCHP). My academic journey laid a solid foundation in psychology, with a BA General degree and a BSocSci Honours in Psychology. To further refine my counselling capabilities, I completed the Humanitas Counselling Course to register as an ASCHP Specialist Wellness Counsellor, equipping me with the tools to offer compassionate and effective support to my clients.

Over the past two years, I have immersed myself in specialized training to broaden my expertise and address the diverse needs of clients. My focus areas include autism, trauma, addiction, and suicidal ideations. This comprehensive training has enabled me to develop a profound understanding of behavioural challenges, emotional resilience, and the complexities surrounding mental health and neurodevelopmental conditions.

Currently, I own and operate a thriving online private practice, offering accessible and personalized support to clients from the comfort of their own homes. My practice is centred on empowering individuals to overcome trauma and navigate life’s most challenging experiences. I focus on helping clients who struggles with addiction to explore and resolve the roots of their struggles, and guiding them toward healthier coping mechanisms. Additionally, I work extensively with individuals affected by abuse, providing a safe space for healing and growth.

“Autism Awareness: A Journey of Understanding” was curated as part of our new Humanitas Graduates’ initiatives programme that empowers our Counselling Course Graduates to become course developers.

Each course developed by our graduates undergoes a thorough review process to guarantee its excellence.

This initiative not only highlights our commitment to providing our graduates with valuable exposure and income-generating opportunities but also reinforces our dedication to delivering high-quality educational content.

We are proud to host Danielle’s “Autism Awareness: A Journey of Understanding” under the Humanitas banner!