NEURO-AFFIRMATIVE TRAINING

WELCOME TO AUSOME

An AUsome Story: Putting Autistic People at the Heart of Autism Training

Our story began in 2014 with a mission to create Autistic-led neurodiversity training designed and delivered by Autistic people. We recognized the need for Autistic-led training that would educate people on the realities of being Autistic and dispel the harmful myths and stigmas that surround our existence. Autistic people have long been shrouded in misunderstanding, and we are here to bridge that gap in understanding and remove the stigma.

Autistic-led Autism Training: Shaping a Better Narrative

At AUsome Training, we are proud to be an Autistic-led organization. Our dedicated team of Autistic professionals is passionate about creating a better world and rewriting the story for Autistic people of all ages. In addition to our comprehensive training programs, we have organized numerous events over the past number of years to raise positivity and genuine awareness. These events have featured and elevated Autistic voices, reaching thousands of parents, teachers, employers, therapists, and other professionals.

Making History: Ireland’s First All-Autistic Conference

One of the significant milestones in our journey occurred in 2019 when we hosted Ireland’s first-ever All-Autistic Conference in Cork. It was a groundbreaking event as it was the first time an autism conference featured exclusively Autistic presenters. We welcomed speakers from the United States, United Kingdom, and Ireland, attracting an audience of 350 people and engaging another 5,000 online viewers. This conference marked an essential turning point in promoting progressive thinking and understanding of Neurodiversity.

Progressive Thinking on Autism: Challenging Outdated Ideas

Traditional autism conferences and events often fail to center Autistic thinking, leading to inaccurate ideas and potential mistreatment of Autistic children and adults. At AUsome Training, we are committed to offering the most progressive and up-to-date perspectives on Neurodiversity. We collaborate regularly with other Autistic trainers, including speakers, authors, professionals, researchers, activists, and advocates, to ensure our training is of the highest quality.

Our goal is to create Neuro-affirming training opportunities where Autistic individuals can educate others, challenging existing misconceptions and teaching the realities of autism through excellent CPD courses, webinars, live talks, onsite-training sessions, and articles.

The Journey Begins: Evaleen Whelton’s Vision

AUsome Training was founded by Evaleen Whelton, who made the wonderful discovery of her own Autistic identity in 2014 at the age of 37. Realizing the contradictions between the information she received from autism “experts” and the Autistic community, she became a passionate advocate for positive change for Autistic people in Ireland and around the world. As a trainer, Evaleen focused her efforts on raising appreciation for Autistic thinking, designing and delivering neuro-affirming workshops and collaborating with others in the field.

Her journey aimed to normalize the perception of autism within the wider community. Through her articles, conferences, talks, and program development, Evaleen has been at the forefront of training others with the most current thinking around autism. She firmly believes in providing a platform for open, frank, and honest discussions about autism with Autistic individuals at the core.

AUsome Training: Pioneering Positive Change

Above all, AUsome Training serves as a catalyst for much-needed positive change. Our approach places Autistic people at the heart of our autism training, ensuring that their perspectives and experiences shape the narrative. We are committed to fostering understanding, breaking down barriers, and empowering Autistic individuals to thrive in a world that values and respects their unique strengths and contributions.

Join us on this transformative journey as we work together to create a more inclusive and accepting society for Autistic people everywhere.

AUTISM TRAINER

Meet Evaleen

AUsome Ireland was created by Evaleen Whelton.

Evaleen made the wonderful discovery that she is autistic in 2014 at the age of 37.

Since then she has been advocating for positive change for Autistic people in Ireland and around the globe.

Introducing Evaleen, a dedicated professional with over 20 years of experience working with children and teenagers. As a seasoned speech and drama teacher, Evaleen has always had a passion for nurturing self-esteem and empowering young individuals to embrace their unique identities.

In 2014, Evaleen had a personal revelation when she discovered she was Autistic.

This life-changing realization fueled her dedication to supporting autistic children and young people on their journey to becoming the best versions of themselves, unapologetically. Her work revolves around the core principles of respect and dignity for autistic individuals, advocating for their rights and ensuring their voices are heard.

Evaleen’s expertise extends beyond her direct work with autistic youth. She possesses an in-depth understanding of the challenges they face in their social environments. With unwavering determination, she tackles these barriers head-on, aiming to dismantle social stigmas and create a more inclusive world for individuals of all ages on the autism spectrum.

Not only is Evaleen active within the autistic community in Ireland, but she also maintains a strong presence on an international level. Her involvement in various initiatives and collaborations showcases her commitment to driving positive change and advancing the rights of autistic people.

Evaleen’s work is fueled by her visionary outlook on the world—an aspiration for a society where everyone is valued, respected, and treated with dignity. In this world, autistic children are not pathologized but celebrated for their unique perspectives and strengths.

Through her tireless efforts, Evaleen strives to create a better future, promoting the understanding that our neurodivergent ways are not only valid but also offer valuable contributions to society.

With Evaleen as your guide, you can expect a wealth of expertise, compassion, and an unwavering dedication to fostering inclusive environments for autistic children and young people. Join her in shaping a world that embraces diversity and empowers individuals to thrive.

By choosing Evaleen, you are making a conscious decision to support the rights and well-being of autistic individuals while embarking on a transformative journey towards a more inclusive and accepting world.

Evaleen photo
joana

OFFICE ADMIN

Meet Abi

Abi helps us with the office admin and keeps us organised.

Abi is from the UK but spent her childhood years growing up in The Netherlands and also Thailand (she’s also very proudly a quarter Irish).

She was diagnosed ADHD at the age of 43 but very soon came realise that she is almost certainly autistic/PDA too.

Abi is a mum to 2 autistic kids (one ADHD and the other PDA with a recently sustained brain injury) and is passionate about advocating for neurodivergent people. Abi also writes in her free time. She has a couple of Facebook pages and is writing a book about her experience of supporting her daughter through her accident and recovery in hospital. Her long standing special interest is technology.

SUBJECT MATTER EXPERT Meet Stiof

SUBJECT MATTER EXPERT

Meet Stiof

Stiof MacAmhalghaigh is our Subject Matter Expert at AUSome Training. Stiof is an Autistic theorist, trainer and campaigner with decades of experience supporting neurodivergent students. Self-identified as Autistic at 12, they gained clinical confirmation at 30. Stiof has worked on developing a comprehensive Autistic-oriented theory of Autistic living for over a decade, publishing, presenting and training on this work internationally via conferences, Autistic Union, and most recently through their Infinite Diversity blog and Ausome Training webinars.

Introducing Stiof MacAmhalghaigh, our esteemed Subject Matter Expert at AUSome Training.

With decades of experience supporting neurodivergent students, Stiof is a highly regarded Autistic theorist, trainer, and campaigner.

Stiof’s journey of self-identification as Autistic began at the age of 12, and they obtained clinical confirmation at 30. Since then, Stiof has dedicated their life to developing a comprehensive Autistic-oriented theory of Autistic living, which forms the foundation of their impactful work.

Their expertise and insights have been widely recognized, leading to international engagements through conferences, the Autistic Union, and their influential Infinite Diversity blog and Ausome Training courses.

As a trainer, theorist, and international speaker, Stiof brings a wealth of knowledge to their role. Their pioneering ‘CDF’ model of Autistic Living serves as a guiding framework throughout our course, providing a unique perspective on the diverse experiences of autistic individuals.

Stiof’s deep involvement in the Autistic community as a researcher, rights activist, advocate, and educator further enriches their understanding of the challenges and needs of neurodivergent individuals.

Since 2002, Stiof has provided invaluable one-on-one and group support to Autistic and other neurodivergent students, spanning from primary to third-level education. Their commitment to empowering individuals through education and personalized support is unmatched, making a lasting impact on the lives of those they work with.

Stiof’s insights, theories, and extensive research are highly regarded within the field, establishing them as a prominent thinker who tirelessly strives towards creating a better world for Autistic individuals. Their dedication to advocating for Autistic rights and promoting inclusive practices is evident in all aspects of their work.

When you engage with Stiof MacAmhalghaigh, you can expect nothing short of exceptional expertise and an unwavering commitment to empowering Autistic individuals. Their unique perspectives, comprehensive theories, and extensive experience are invaluable assets that contribute to the transformative journey towards a more inclusive society.

By partnering with Stiof MacAmhalghaigh, you are choosing to learn from a remarkable thinker and advocate who has dedicated their life’s work to championing the rights and well-being of Autistic individuals. Join them on a transformative journey towards a better world for all.

Gillian Kearns, a dedicated Early Childhood educator

EARLY EDUCATION EXPERT

Meet Gillian

Introducing Gillian Kearns, a dedicated Early Childhood educator with a wealth of experience spanning the primary education and child protection sectors. With a strong focus on fostering collaboration and improving relationships and outcomes, Gillian has made a significant impact throughout her career. Gillian’s passion lies in supporting adults and young people to work together harmoniously, promoting a positive and inclusive environment.

Recognizing the importance of understanding the neurodivergent experience, she has actively worked with parents, guardians, and families to equip them with the knowledge and tools needed to support the young people in their care effectively.

As a co-founder of Neuro Pride Ireland, Gillian has played a pivotal role in establishing a self-directed community space and Disabled Persons Organisation (DPO). Through their annual festival, Neuro Pride Ireland celebrates and honors the diverse communities and identities within the neurodivergent spectrum, including a special children’s festival. Education is a cornerstone of NeuroPride’s work, exemplified by their engaging YouTube channel that amplifies the voices of neurodivergent individuals.

AUTISTIC CULTURE MENTOR AND CONSULTANT Scott

AUTISTIC CULTURE MENTOR AND CONSULTANT

Meet Scott

Scott is an Autistic Trainer, Mentor and Consultant based in Scotland. They are dedicated to informing people of Autistic experience and culture and reframing the narrative in society. Scott has over 25 years of personal experience as an Autistic person, in addition to over 5 years of professional experience supporting Autistic people and their families within various settings and organisations.
Scott also works independently under ‘Autistically Scott’.
Within the past few years, they have delivered sessions to hundreds of professionals, including teachers, social workers, educational psychologists and therapists.”

Scott’s events always get fantastic feedback:

“Thank you Scott. This was a lovely training session which was very beneficial, it allowed me to critique my practice as a practitioner and reflect on what I could change for individual children to support them. The session was delivered well and very communication friendly.”

– School Teacher (North Lanarkshire Council)

“Thank you!! This was a very engaging and interesting session and one of the best trainings I have attended. It was so helpful to hear your thoughts and experiences and I have been reflecting on my own practice and experiences as a result.”

– Staff Member from Autism Spectrum Information and Support Team (ASIST) (Fife Council)

AUTISTIC CULTURE MENTOR AND CONSULTANT Scott

COUNSELLOR, PSYCHOTHERAPIST & LECTURER/TRAINER

Meet Eoin

Eoin Stephens is a counsellor/psychotherapist & lecturer/trainer who has worked in the areas of disability, addiction treatment, education/training and counselling/psychotherapy in private practice for over 30 years, using a humanistic and pragmatic CBT approach.

After specialising primarily in the areas of behavioural addictions and anxiety disorders for a number of years, and working at a senior level in counselling/psychotherapy education, he received the IACP Carl Berkeley Memorial Award in 2010.

His work is currently focused on understanding the problems faced by Autistic adults and their specific therapeutic needs. He is Autistic himself, having made the discovery in 2012.  Eoin is the main trainer on our Dawn course and also delivers webinars and shorter training sessions as well as regular Minding Autistic Minds conference appearances.

AUTISTIC CULTURE MENTOR AND CONSULTANT Scott

PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHER & ADVOCATE/TRAINER

Meet Siobhan

Siobhán Daly is an Autistic primary teacher who advocates for true autistic inclusion in school communities. She recognises the urgent need for change to ensure that autistic children thrive as themselves and promotes neuro-affirming practices to ensure safety, authenticity, acceptance and agency. She works with and supports newly discovered autistic children on their journey of self-discovery as well as being actively involved in parent support groups.

Siobhán provides training for trainee teachers promoting a strength-based view of autistic culture.

AUTISTIC CULTURE MENTOR AND CONSULTANT Scott

BEST-SELLING AUTHOR, FORMER ENGLISH TEACHER & TRAINER

Meet Pete

After being diagnosed as autistic at the age of 34 in 2017, Pete has immersed himself in working to improve autistic awareness, acceptance and making the world a more suitable place for the neurodivergent community. He has spoken at a wide range of events and conferences since 2020 in the UK and in Europe and North America, both in person and remotely, sharing his insight and experience of being Autistic and ADHD with businesses, governments, educational establishments and more.

He is active on LinkedIn, Instagram and on YouTube, where his channel is at over 3000 subscribers. He is a bestselling author: his first book, What I Want to Talk About, was published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers in September 2022, and his second book, Untypical, was published by HarperCollins in March 2023, with the paperback released in March 2024. He has also written a number of articles, interviews and book chapters, and appeared on BBC Radio 2. He is a former secondary English teacher and a father-of-one.

Pronouns: he/him

You can also find his website here.

AUTISTIC CULTURE MENTOR AND CONSULTANT Scott

INTEGRATIVE PSYCHOTHERAPIST & TRAINER

Meet Grace

Grace Harrison is an Integrative Psychotherapist in private practice in Ennis, Co. Clare, working with adolescents and adults, and a Student Counsellor in the University of Galway. She holds a Masters in Integrative Psychotherapy, a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Sociology, and since qualifying as a psychotherapist, completed further education in adolescent psychotherapy, working with autistic adults, and practitioner skills for eating disorders.

Grace specialises in eating disorders and neurodivergence hence she co-designed and delivers specialist counselling group programmes, with proven effectiveness, for students in both of these areas, in her role in the University of Galway. She also provides training on understanding and supporting neurodivergent people (particularly neurodivergent students and young people), both within the university context to students, student counsellors, student support services staff, and academic staff, and as part of AUsome Training’s Dawn Practitioner Programme.

Having lived experience of eating disorders and recovery, and in discovering that she is autistic herself, Grace is passionate about contributing to these areas and advocating through awareness-raising activities and talks, wherever possible. This includes, writing informative articles, participating in lively discussions on radio, offering talks in secondary schools, speaking at conferences, and collaborating with other eating disorders and/or neurodivergence advocates on projects.

AUTISTIC CULTURE MENTOR AND CONSULTANT Scott

NEURODIVERGENT ADVOCATE, CONSULTANT & TRAINER

Meet Katie

Katie Munday is a multiply neurodivergent researcher and advocate demystifying neurodivergent experiences. Their major passion is Disabled and LGBTQIA+ experiences. Katie is a community researcher on projects that explore healthcare experiences of transgender and Disabled people. They have published on Autistic people’s experiences of cancer services, substance use services, and gender identity healthcare.

Katie has also spoken at the Houses of Parliament on cancer service inequity for Disabled and neurodivergent people. They have over 10 years’ experience working with Disabled people in the youth, charity and early years sectors. Katie is an ESRC funded PhD student, their topic is titled “Exploring Trans and Gender Diverse Autistic Adults Experiences of Health and Social Care Inequity.”

Katie Kerley

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST, DIRECTOR & TRAINER

Meet Katie

Katie Kerleyis an occupational therapist and clinical director of Horizons Therapy Services in Dundalk.

Katie is multiply neurodivergent (Autistic, ADHD and Dyspraxic) and has a strong interest in supporting neurodivergent people to be their truest and most authentic selves.

Katie specialises in sensory processing and how it affects meaningful occupation.

Katie provides one to one therapy to both children and adults, as well as OT assessments, and enjoys taking a person-centred, lived-experience and rights-based approach to each individual.

Katie loves being part of continual professional development, both as a learner and as a teacher/mentor. She provides webinars with a variety of organisations, including AUsome Training.

Katie is passionate about being neuro-affirmative and is immersed in the neurodivergent community in Ireland, and is a member of the Therapist Neurodiversity Collective.