This workshop is open to parent/caregivers whose child is a clinical client of the Geneva Centre for Autism.

Parenting can be challenging. For parents of children with ASD, negotiating with some of the related stressors can be especially emotionally draining. This workshop focuses on caring for the caregiver. Based on the model of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), you will be guided through a series of experiential exercises that help you reflect on your usual ways of dealing with stress, and explore alternative approaches based on acceptance, mindfulness, and valued-based living. Increased mindfulness, i.e. non-judgmental awareness to what is present at the moment, may help you more effectively deal with your stress, which may also help you more effectively manage difficult situations that arise with your children with ASD. Workshop leaders have extensive experience with the ACT model and its application to parenting children with ASD.

Outcomes:

• Gain an understanding of the ACT model and how it can be applied to the stress of parenting children with ASD
• Explore current avoidance strategies and alternative ways of coping
• Reflect on and reconnect with your own core values, and come up with ways to be with your child and live life in a way consistent with these values
• Make connections with other parents in similar situations
• Practice some introductory mindfulness exercises that can also be used at home or when parenting