“By bearing witness to each other’s stories, we validate and give meaning to our own experiences.” Yalom (2005)
Our neuroaffirming group program brings together autistic adults to explore and address the sensory, emotional, social, and identity aspects of being neurodivergent.
Upcoming Autism Group Program – Secure Your Spot
In-person in Fitzroy | Small group size (4–8 participants)
Join our 6-week group program for autistic adults in a supportive, reflective, and engaging environment.
Now accepting expressions of interest for the upcoming program starting Monday 19 May 2025.
Sessions run weekly on Mondays from 6:00pm to 8:00pm.
Program Overview
This 6-week in-person group program is grounded in the belief that self-exploration, understanding and growth are enriched through shared experience. The program integrates therapeutic guidance with the richness of the group dynamics, where participants not only gain support and perspective from others — but also come to recognise the value of their own contributions. Our approach is process-oriented, combining reflective discussions with experiential activities. Participants engage in learning not only through conversation, but through active exploration of thoughts, emotions, and interpersonal experiences within a supportive and affirming group environment.
Participant Eligibility
This program is open to adults (18+) who have a formal autism diagnosis or who self-identify as autistic. We welcome people who are at different stages of their discovery or understanding of autism, and we aim to create a space where diverse experiences and viewpoints can be shared and valued.
Session Themes
Session 1: Introduction
Session 2: Sensory and Interoceptive Awareness
Session 3: Understanding and Regulating Emotions
Session 4: Social Communication and relationships
Session 5: Exploring Identity and Masking
Session 6: Integration and Closing Reflections
Intake Process
Limited spots are available. If you're interested, complete the form below, and we will contact you for a brief discussion to ensure the program is a good fit. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask any questions.
For more information, email autismgroupprogram@gmail.com.
Registration Form
Please fill out the form below. One of the facilitators will contact you for a brief discussion to ensure the program is a good fit for you.
FAQs
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This program was co-designed by Dr. Simone Mizzi and Dr. Yan Yang (see our bios below). Through both clinical experience and research, we've noticed a significant gap in group programs tailored specifically for autistic adults, despite the clear value these spaces provide. Our program is designed to fill this gap by creating an affirming space.
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While individual therapy offers a safe and private space, the group setting provides a unique opportunity to explore communication and social dynamics in a way that reflects real-world interactions. It’s a safe, structured environment to identify and experiment with your preferred ways of relating to others, all while receiving support from peers who share similar experiences. To help determine if the program is the right fit for you, you'll have the opportunity to speak with one of the facilitators during the intake process.
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The program is open to autistic adults aged 18 and over, whether formally diagnosed or self-identified. Participants come from diverse backgrounds but share an interest in exploring sensory, emotional, social, and identity-related aspects of being autistic. The group is designed to foster a respectful and inclusive environment where you can connect with other autistic adults.
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While building connections may naturally occur, the program goes beyond making friends or focusing solely on social skills. By leveraging the dynamic of a group setting, it is designed to deepen self-insights into key areas of experience and create opportunities to actively practice new skills.
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It’s natural to feel anxious about group settings. Each session offers predictability and autonomy, with clear outlines, guided activities, and time for reflection. Breaks and quiet spaces are available if you feel overwhelmed, allowing you to step away and re-enter as needed. Activities are flexible, so you can engage at your comfort level. Facilitators are experienced in offering compassionate, flexible support.
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The full cost of the 6-week program is:
Standard rate: $200 per session ($1,200 for the full program)
Reduced rate: $150 per session ($900 for the full program) — limited concession places available
Medicare Rebates
Participants with a Mental Health Care Plan can access a Medicare rebate for each session. After the rebate, the out-of-pocket costs are:
Standard rate: $133.35 per session
($800.10 for the full program)Reduced rate: $83.35 per session
($500.10 for the full program)
NDIS Participants
Self-managed and plan-managed NDIS participants may be able to use their funding to cover the cost of the program. Please contact us if you’d like support with this process.
Dr Simone Mizzi is a registered clinical psychologist with experience in both the private and public sector. As an active researcher, she has contributed to large-scale projects aimed at gaining deeper insights into the experiences of autistic individuals in Australia. Drawing from both her research and clinical work, Simone has identified acceptance and connection as important components in navigating autistic identity. These insights have played a pivotal role in shaping the development of this neuroaffirming program for autistic adults.
Dr Yan Yang is a registered psychologist in Australia and the UK. Her commitment to supporting neurodivergent adults developed through her work in the public sector and private practice. There she has grown a more nuanced understanding of the resilience, strengths, and core values of autistic clients who experience significant psychosocial and physical health challenges. In collaboration with Dr. Mizzi, she co-designed this program to bring together a small group of autistic adults, exploring key aspects of their lives and identities through a reflective, strengths-based approach.