FMH PDP Workshop: Understanding and working with neurodiversity in justice involved youth

This full-day workshop, delivered through the Forensic Mental Health Professional Development Program (FMH PDP) will provide participants with an understanding of factors associated with offending behaviours in neurodivergent young people (diagnosed with ADHD, Autism or both). The association between specific clinical features, problem behaviours and the risk of re-offending will be discussed for youth clients with ADHD, Autism or combined diagnoses, with references to both recent academic research and current clinical practice. Fictional case studies representing common issues often seen in practice will be used to illustrate conceptually helpful ways of including neurodiversity into formulation, with specific reference to autism and ADHD. The workshop will consider also recommendations for interventions when working with this population.

The participants will also learn about the FARAS (Framework for the Assessment of Risk & Protection in Offenders on the Autistic Spectrum), which can assist clinicians in applying an ASD-informed perspective on the forensic risk formulation and intervention planning for youth with ASD. Participants will have the opportunity to apply the FARAS risk assessment framework themselves, followed by a review of the assessment task which will highlight the process of identifying risk and protective factors and consider how they can be incorporated into a risk management plan.

About the facilitators

Dr Neira Ott is a Senior Clinical Psychologist at Youth Forensic Specialist Service, Alfred Health / Clinical Psychology Educator. Neira is experienced in providing general mental health and forensic risk assessments and treatment to young people aged 10 - 21 years old, who are at risk of offending or are already involved with the Youth Justice system. As part of her Youth Forensic Specialist role, Neira provides forensic risk assessment and support to neurodivergent young people across the East Metropolitan Melbourne and the East Victoria catchment.

Dr Margaret Nixon is the Professional Development and Training Lead, and a Senior Lecturer in Forensic Behavioural Science at the Centre for Forensic Behavioural Science, with a specific research interest in disabilities and justice involved populations.

The workshop is primarily targeted at health and mental health clinicians however it has also been useful for professionals working with youth in a range of community settings, including Youth Justice, Police, Child Protection and Education. If you have questions about your suitability for this workshop, please contact FMHPDP@swin.edu.au

View our full workshop calendar on our Humanatix page.