Autism and Mental Health: Promoting Wellbeing

Dr. Ben Milbourn is a Senior Lecturer in the Faculty of Health Sciences at Curtin University, recognized for his significant contributions to occupational therapy practice and research, particularly in the areas of autism and mental health. His work focuses on vulnerable populations and strength-based approaches for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Professor Sonya Girdler is a distinguished academic and researcher in the field of autism studies, affiliated with the School of Occupational Therapy, Social Work and Speech Pathology at Curtin University. As the Director of the Curtin Autism Research Group (CARG), she leads a team of over 100 members, including academics, PhD students, and autistic individuals, focusing on strengths-based approaches and interventions for autism. Professor Girdler's extensive experience spans various aspects of autism research, with particular emphasis on understanding functioning through the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework, developing and implementing strengths-based programs, conducting employment research, and evaluating evidence-based interventions. Her work has significantly contributed to improving the participation of autistic individuals in major life areas such as employment and education, with notable successes in peer mentoring programs for autistic university students and social skills training programs for autistic teenagers. Professor Girdler's research is characterized by a commitment to leveraging individual strengths, person-centered approaches, and addressing the priorities of the autistic community, making her a leading figure in autism research both nationally and internationally.

Dr. Wenn B. Lawson is a distinguished autism researcher, educator, and advocate who has made significant contributions to the field of autism studies and mental health. As an Adjunct Associate Professor at Curtin University and a neurodivergent practitioner himself, Lawson brings a unique perspective to his work that combines academic expertise with lived experience.

Katherine Browne serves as a researcher and educator at Curtin University, where she is pursuing her Master of Philosophy in Occupational Therapy through the School of Allied Health while working with the Curtin Autism Research Group (CARG). Her research focuses on understanding the lived experiences of autistic mental health, contributing to groundbreaking work that recently won the 2023 edX Prize for Exceptional Contributions in Online Teaching and Learning through her collaboration on the Autism and Mental Health MOOC. As a registered secondary teacher specializing in ATAR Physics, Science, and Mathematics, she brings valuable educational expertise to her research work. Her experience extends to providing professional learning workshops through Positive Partnerships, combining her teaching background with her commitment to advancing understanding of autism and mental health