The aim of the course is to provide a comprehensive picture of the literature and research available on mental health treatment of autism. It includes a comprehensive description of autism including changes in DSM-5.
After the course, the participants should be familiar with the methods that currently exist for mental health treatment of autism, when and how the usual psychological methods require adaptation, and how to formulate and implement individualized treatment plans.
This course was developed as a collaboration between psychologists in the USA (Valerie Gaus) and in Sweden (Eva Larsson and Sylvia Mellfeldt Milchert) and has been approved by the Swedish Psychological Association as a specialist course.
The lectures are web-based with Moodle as the course platform. Participants will take part in previously recorded lectures via the course platform. The lectures are held in English. The course requires active participation. Written examination in Swedish for psychologists seeking certification from the Swedish Psychological Association.
Content:
• Autism; past and present definition according to DSM-5
• Comorbidity
• Evidence-based methods for psychological treatment
• The importance of a lifelong disability and stress sensitivity
• Difficulties / obstacles / opportunities in treating autism and how to deal with them