Sleep and Autism — Practical Skills for Professionals

Please note that all registrations have to be paid in full before the event takes place - otherwise you will miss out on receiving the Zoom link (this is usually sent two days before the event takes place). This event will be recorded for all those who are registered on the day. Slides and resources will be made available online after the workshop. A recording of the workshop with be available to all registrants for 3 weeks following the workshop.

Sleep difficulties are among the most common and persistent challenges for autistic children and adults. Difficulties with sleep onset, night waking, circadian rhythm, and co-occurring anxiety or sensory sensitivities can make sleep uniquely complex. Standard approaches for sleep management often fall short. 

This interactive, half-day workshop is designed for psychologists with existing knowledge of autism who want to develop their expertise in sleep.

The focus will be on practical, case-based learning, with opportunities to share experiences and real-world clinical challenges.

What we’ll cover

Through case discussions, practical exercises, and collaborative problem-solving, we’ll explore:

• How autism shapes sleep presentation and intervention response
• Circadian rhythm differences and their clinical implications
• Common co-occurring factors: anxiety, medical and sensory issues
• Practical tools you can integrate into your clinical practice immediately
• Referral pathways or specialist input for complex sleep needs

What to expect

• Interactive format with case discussions and group problem-solving
• Practical strategies you can apply in your practice straight away
• Resources and frameworks to support clinical decision-making
• Space to reflect on your own cases and get collegial input

Workshop Outcomes

By the end of this workshop, you’ll have new insights, concrete skills, and confidence to better support autistic clients in achieving healthier sleep.

Bio of Presenter

Dr Nicola Cann is a sleep psychologist and founder of an international telehealth service providing consultations, workshops, and training for individuals, schools, businesses, and community organisations. Since completing her psychology training in the UK in 2012, Nicola has worked across public and private services in the UK, New Zealand, and Singapore. Increasingly drawn to sleep psychology, she established her own practice in 2021 and has specialised in sleep full time since then.

Her approach brings together research, clinical experience, and a practical understanding of how sleep issues unfold in everyday life and everyday practice. Her work and commentary on sleep have appeared in scientific publications and a range of media outlets, and she regularly contributes to professional training and conferences. Nicola currently divides her time between New Zealand and Singapore and works closely with clinicians and services committed to improving sleep health.