Applied Psychology

Unmasking Adult Autism: Navigating the Hidden World of Neurodiversity

Explore the challenges of diagnosing adult autism and how to address late diagnosis and mental health comorbidities.

R460.00

Indoor Portrait of a man on the Autism Spectrum

Duration

4 hours

Start Date

1 January 2026

End Date

31 December 2026

Workshop Introduction

Adult autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in adults, refers to individuals above 18 who experience challenges in social communication, behaviour, and repetitive interests. While symptoms may be subtle in adults, they can include difficulties with conversations, understanding social cues, rigid routines, and intense focus on specific interests.

The Unmasking Adult Autism workshop will give you insight into the complexities and challenges of diagnosing adult autism.

This online workshop explores the unique challenges faced by adults on the spectrum, from late diagnosis, mental health comorbidities to workplace accommodations and neurodiversity-affirming therapy.

Build practical knowledge to simplify key diagnostic criteria, discuss autism burnout and examine how clinicians can adapt therapeutic modalities to incorporate neurodiversity.

Overview

Reasons for misdiagnosis

Lack of awareness among healthcare professionals
Comorbidities complicating the diagnosis
Focus on external functioning
Masking and social camouflaging
Over-reliance on childhood-based evaluation
The Autism spectrum being misunderstood

ASD Diagnosis Simplified (DSM-5)

Social Communication and Social Interaction
Restricted, repetitive patterns of behaviour
Sensory Processing
Executive Functioning
Emotional Regulation

Differential Diagnosis and overlapping Co-morbid conditions

Social Anxiety Disorders & Generalised Anxiety Disorder
Depression and Autism Burnout

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Bipolar Disorder
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) & Complex PTSD (C-PTSD)
Eating Disorders
Avoidant PD and Schizoid PD

Autism Burnout, identifying and treatment

Identifying Autistic Burnout Syndrome
Environmental Adaptability and Energy Accounting
Preventative Strategies

Workplace Reasonable Accommodation

Principles of reasonable accommodation explained
Understanding legislation and employee responsibility to accommodate employees with Autism/Neurodiversity

Treatment of Adults Autism

Neurodivergent Psychotherapeutic Treatment Models of Adults with Autism

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the workshop participants will be able to:

Recognize the challenges of diagnosing autism in adults

Understand why autism in adults is often overlooked or misdiagnosed.
Learn how factors like masking and camouflaging can impact clinical presentations.

Simplify and apply autism diagnostic criteria (DSM-5)

Break down the core diagnostic criteria into practical, easy-to-understand concepts.
Explore real-world examples of social communication differences and repetitive behaviours.

Identify overlapping conditions and their impact

Recognize common co-occurring conditions in autistic adults.
Differentiate autism burnout from general burnout or depression and explore effective treatment approaches.

Navigate workplace accommodations and legal responsibilities

Gain an overview of relevant legislation, including the Employment Equality Act.
Understand employer responsibilities and how to create supportive workplaces for autistic employees.

Adapt psychotherapy for neurodivergent adults

Learn why traditional therapy approaches may not be effective for autistic clients.
Discover neurodivergent-friendly adaptations for psychotherapy and mental health support.

Learner Experience

Dan Tselanyane

"I really enjoyed the Unmasking Adult Autism: Navigating the Hidden World of Neurodiversity workshop because it brought learners up to date with current procedures and systems, guiding us to stay aligned with modern, evidence-based practices."

Certification

This CPD workshop has been designed for healthcare professionals and anyone interested in gaining knowledge in adult autism diagnosis. Once you have completed the course, you will receive a digital certificate of completion.

The certificate serves as evidence of your new skills and knowledge and can be used to demonstrate your commitment to professional development.

Attend a live online session, or watch the recording, and complete an online reading and assessment.

HPCSA registered professionals will receive 3 CPD points [3 CEU Continuing Education Units points] upon successful completion of the workshop.

Dates and Registration

Class of 2026: on demand

Participants can register at any time and move through the workshop content. Watch the live workshop recording and complete the online journal articles and multiple-choice questionnaire.

NOTE: HPCSA registered professionals who want to claim 3 CPD points [3 CEU Continuing Education Units points] need to complete the online assessment within 5 days after registering.

Workshop Presenter

Chael Nel is a Clinical Psychologist with a focus on supporting adults with autism. As a co-founder of The Spectrum Centre in Randburg, he has helped build an internationally recognized organization offering assessments, tailored interventions, and ongoing support for neurodiverse adults. The centre empowers individuals to better navigate life while fostering self-compassion and understanding of their unique experiences.

Beyond clinical work, Chael is dedicated to neurodiversity advocacy and psychoeducation. He leads workshops, provides professional training, delivers corporate talks, and contributes to research on adult autism diagnosis and treatment. His mission is to create a more inclusive society that values and celebrates neurodiversity.

Course highlights

Man Using Sign Language While Working From Home

Explore the challenges of diagnosing autism in adults.
Recognize common co-occurring conditions in autistic adults.
Understand why traditional therapy approaches may not be effective for autistic clients.

FAQs

What are the entry requirements?

Anyone 18 years of age or older can sign up for this online workshop. There are no academic entry requirements or conditions.

Who is this workshop for?

This workshop is for you if you want to better understand the complexities and challenges of diagnosing adult autism.

What is the time commitment?

A total of 4 hours is required to complete the workshop.

What do you need to do the workshop?

Access to Microsoft Word
Google Chrome (recommended)
Stable internet connection

Is the workshop assessed?

Learners are required to complete an assessment comprising of reading a journal article and answering a 15-question multiple choice questionnaire.

Is the workshop accredited?

The online workshop is accredited by the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA).

What is autism?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a lifelong developmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts with others, and processes information.

What can you do after completing this workshop?

HPCSA registered professionals will receive 3 CPD points [3 CEU Continuing Education Units points] upon successful completion of the workshop.

The Team

The SACAP Global team brings a wealth of knowledge and practical experience across various disciplines. Our expert short course developers and dedicated support team are passionate about sharing their insights to help you get the most out of your online learning journey.