.adolescent.programs.

 

Chilled Anxiety Program (12-18 years)

The Chilled program is based on the Cool Kids® Anxiety Program and has been specifically adapted for adolescents with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. Currently Chilled is part of Theresa Kidd’s PhD program at Curtin University. To be eligible for this FREE program adolescents need to be diagnosed with high functioning autism or Asperger’s Syndrome and be experiencing high levels of anxiety.

Chilled is a weekly course designed to teach adolescents how to better manage their anxiety. It is a group program involving the participation of one parent and their adolescent, and runs for 12 sessions. The first 10 sessions are run once a week and the final 2 sessions are once a month. Participating in this research program allows families access to cutting edge treatment for anxiety.

The sessions teach clear and practical skills based on cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). Sessions have been adapted to suit the visual learning style of individuals with ASD. Positive reinforcements will be used to make the sessions motivating and enjoyable.

Topics covered in the program include:

• Learning about feelings
• Me and my anxiety
• Learning to Relax
• Detective thinking, and helpful thoughts
• Becoming the boss of my fears and worries
• Dealing with worry
• Social skills and assertiveness

One parent of the adolescent will attend a concurrent session, which will cover educational and informational material relating to helping their adolescent manage their anxiety. Eligible families will be randomly placed into a treatment group or waiting list group once accepted onto the program.

Cost: FREE

For more information on this program please contact Theresa Kidd via email Theresa.kidd@postgrad.curtin.edu.au

 

Celebrating Self (13-17 year old girls)

Girls with Asperger’s Syndrome or high functioning autism have a unique combination of gifts and challenges. Often these girls may be left undiagnosed in their early school years and consequently may miss out on the support and guidance necessary to achieve their full potential. The aim of this group is to embrace the individual differences of these young women and assist them to build their life skills, such as emotion management, self-awareness, and improved ability to form and maintain relationships.

Once six young women are registered we will notify of the group commencement date. This 6-week group will focus on building self-esteem through understanding strengths and difficulties, building friendships skills, coping with perfectionism, and understanding how to self-soothe.

Cost: $600 participants may be eligible for Medicare rebate.