Purchase this course and get 
Structure
On-demand
Duration
4 hours
Total Hours
4 hours
Start Date
1 January 2026End Date
31 December 2026
Mode
Self-paced learningWorkshop 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
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
-
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.
Related Courses
Domains of Psychology
Understand the biological and neuropsychological functioning of the human mind and body.
Enhancing Mental Health
Enhance personal, community and workplace mental health by learning how to build psychological resilience.
Genetic Psychology: A New Approach to Health, Healing & Wellness
Explore the real cause of illness and how it relates to a deep disconnection at a genetic level.
R460.00
Start Date
1 January 2026End Date
31 December 2026-
Register now. Pay later. 0% Interest.Split into interest free payments.
-
Scan to pay.Scan the QR code to pay.
-
Credit and debit card.Pay using your credit or debit card.
-
Visa Click to Pay.Pay with credit, debit or prepaid card.
