Anxiety disorders occur at significantly higher rates in autistic children and young people compared to their neurotypical peers, yet anxiety in this population often goes unrecognized or is misunderstood. This presentation provides allied health professionals with essential knowledge and practical tools to effectively identify, understand, and support anxiety in autistic children across home, school, and community settings.
The session explores why anxiety is so prevalent in autistic children, examining the unique neurological, sensory, and social factors that contribute to heightened anxiety levels in this population.
A key focus will be understanding how anxiety can manifest differently in autistic children compared to neurotypical peers.
The presentation emphasizes evidence-based intervention strategies for autistic children, moving beyond one-size-fits-all approaches. Real case studies will illustrate practical applications of anxiety management techniques across different environments, highlighting the importance of individualized, autism-informed and neurodiversity affirming approaches.
Therapeutic considerations will include specific tips for working with autistic children in clinical settings, including communication adaptations, sensory considerations, and building therapeutic rapport. Attendees will leave equipped with concrete strategies and intervention techniques to better support the mental health and wellbeing of autistic children experiencing anxiety in their professional practice.

Three Key Learnings:
1. Attendees will understand current theories around why Anxiety is common in Autistic children and young people.
2. Attendees will understand the potential causes of anxiety in Autistic children and how anxiety can present differently to their neurotypical peers.
3. Attendees will be able to apply strategies for helping children with Autism manage their anxiety effectively.