Autistic Women and Girls

Trainer: Laura Gowdy, Associate Trainer

Location: In person training delivered in CiNI, 40 Montgomery Road Belfast, BT6 9HL

Autistic Women and Girls – Discover, Understand, and Advocate

This full-day workshop explores Autism with a particular focus on its unique presentation in women, girls, and individuals assigned female at birth (AFAB).

For years, Autism research and diagnostic criteria have been predominantly shaped by studies focused on boys and men, often overlooking the subtle yet impactful ways Autism manifests in females. As a result, many autistic women and girls face delayed recognition, late diagnosis, or even misdiagnosis.

This training is designed to bridge that gap by increasing awareness, breaking stereotypes, and equipping attendees with the knowledge and tools to better understand and support this population.

This workshop is perfect for professionals, parents, and anyone keen to deepen their understanding of Autism through a lens of inclusion and celebration. Join us to create a more understanding, supportive, and accepting world for autistic women and girls.

What You’ll Learn:

• Understanding Autism: Explore potential characteristics and experiences.
• Debunking Myths: Address stereotypes and misconceptions about Autism.
• The Diagnostic Gap: Gain insight into the challenges of misdiagnosis and late diagnosis in women and girls.
• Advocacy Skills: Learn how to champion and support autistic women and girls.
• Supportive Strategies: Practical approaches for nurturing confidence and well-being.
• Autism & Life Stages: Discuss puberty, periods, and anxiety.
• Celebrating Differences: Foster a proud Autistic identity in children and young people.

Bonus Resources:

You’ll leave with tools and resources to share with autistic children and young people, helping them feel empowered and supported.

Cost: This course is charged at £95 per person for non-members OR £80 for members of CiNI.

Feedback from previous trainees of this workshop:

“Trainer was excellent. Laura has a lot of knowledge in this topic and has good presentation skills. Her passion in this subject comes across very clearly. ”

“Thank you, I thought the training was brilliant, we drove from Donegal/Derry and was well worth it. The delivery, the information given and explained and the resources offered are just fantastic and definitely will not forget what I have learned and has driven me to want to learn more around autism and in particular women & girls, thank you so much.”

“It was all so useful for me in my counselling work. Thank you so much to Laura, such an excellent facilitator. I know a lot about autism and after the course, now I know more.”

About the Trainer:

Laura is a qualified Play Therapist, currently working in a charity supporting children with Autism and additional needs. Previous to this she had various roles including;  a Primary School Teacher, Autism Intervention Officer delivering Autism interventions to families in the community, and a trainer in Autism for families, professionals and organisations.

Important Information:

• If you have questions or need assistance, please email hayley@ci-ni.org.uk or call 028 9040 1290
• CiNI is located in the 40 Montgomery Rd business park. Please enter the stairwell by Podium for Sport and go to the 1st floor. We have free parking. Bus: Metro 6 (Cregagh Rd – Montgomery Rd stop after the large roundabout).