Autism & Low-intensity Practice (PWP Enhanced Clinical Practice Workshop)

Our CPD workshops for PWPs and MHWPs offer engaging, practice-focused learning designed to strengthen both clinical knowledge and practical skills. Grounded in the Declarative-Procedural-Reflective (DPR) Model of Therapist Skill Development (Bennett-Levy, 2006), these workshops go beyond the delivery of information to support meaningful professional growth. Participants will have the opportunity to develop and consolidate their declarative knowledge (what we know), strengthen their procedural skills (what we do in practice), and engage in structured reflection to enhance clinical decision-making and competence.

Each workshop uses a range of interactive teaching methods including discussion, case examples, skills practice, and reflective exercises. This approach enables participants to translate learning directly into their clinical work and build confidence in applying evidence-based interventions with diverse client groups. Workshops provide opportunities to learn collaboratively, share good practice with peers, and develop confidence in applying new knowledge and skills within everyday clinical work.

Whether you are seeking to refresh existing skills, develop expertise in a particular clinical area, or enhance your reflective practice, these workshops offer a supportive and stimulating space for professional development.

There is a growing evidence base informing effective support for autistic patients experiencing common mental health problems. This workshop is designed to help qualified PWPs develop the knowledge, clinical skills, and confidence needed to effectively assess and treat autistic patients within low-intensity services. The workshop will provide an overview of autism and the unique needs of this patient group, including common clinical presentations and how mental health difficulties may present differently. Participants will explore what to consider during a low-intensity assessment, how to identify and differentiate common mental health problems, and the factors that may influence engagement and treatment outcomes. The workshop will also review the current evidence base and practical adaptations that can support assessment and treatment. In addition, it will help practitioners recognise when a patient may benefit from stepping up to high-intensity interventions or accessing specialist support. Common challenges encountered by both patients and practitioners will be discussed, alongside strategies for overcoming these barriers and improving clinical outcomes.

This workshop will be held via Zoom on 12/11/2026 between 09:30am to 16:30pm. Please book your place here for £125 per person: https://store.exeter.ac.uk/conferences-and-events/faculty-of-health-and-life-sciences/psychology/cedar-create-enhanced-clinical-practice-workshop-for-pwps-mhwp-autism