Autism and Gender

This workshop will provide delegates with the latest developments in Autism and Gender. 

Dr Keri Lodge, Consultant Learning Disability Psychiatrist at Leeds Autism Diagnostic Service, will Chair the day along with expert speakers. 

This workshop will delve into the relationship between autism and gender identity. Clinicians often face diagnostic challenges in this area, questioning whether an individual's gender incongruence is related to a general sense of social disconnection or if their differences in social communication and interaction are more accurately attributed to gender dysphoria.

It aims to assist clinicians in both autism and gender services by enhancing their understanding of autism in relation to gender. Participants will explore existing knowledge about the connections between these two areas and learn how to effectively address the needs of those they serve.

The workshop will outline that there is some evidence to show a link between gender dysphoria and autism, although this is not clear. In addition to this clinicians may find themselves wondering whether a person's gender dysphoria is linked to a winder feeling of not fitting in socially, and conversely, whether a person's social communication and interaction difficulties are explained by gender dysphoria. Also professionals working with people with autism and with gender dysphoria need an understanding of both conditions to best meet these services users' needs.

 Suitability

This course offers 6 CPD points and is suitable for Psychiatrists, Mental Health and Learning Disability Nurses, Allied Health Professionals and Support Workers Working with Autistic People and People with Gender Identity Difficulties.

A reduced rate is offered for Mental Health and Learning Disability Nurses, Allied Health Professionals and Support Workers Working with Autistic People and People with Gender Identity Difficulties.

Please email andrewsimscentre.lypft@nhs.net for booking information.