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​Let's Talk: PDA for Dads Support Group

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Hosted in AWST

Are you the Dad of a PDAer? 

 
This group intends to create a space for men to support each other, share lived experiences, and generate solutions together. Hearing from other dads offers validation, normalises challenges, and fosters connection. 

What You'll Learn: 

  • Practical Coping Strategies – Learn effective ways to manage stress and parenting challenges.
  • Emotional Support & Connection – Gain reassurance from shared experiences and build a network of supportive dads.
  • Psychoeducation on PDA – Understand Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), its impact on children, and strategies for supportive parenting.
  • Self-Compassion & Personal Growth – Understand the importance of self-care, reducing guilt, and embracing the realities of fatherhood.

Why Attend: 

Whether you are new to being a dad of a PDAer or are wanting a refresher, this group will aim to resource you with the tools and mindset to increase your capacity to best support your child and family.  

Interactive Discussion & Practical Takeaways: You'll have the chance to ask questions and engage with our trained presenters, who will offer expert insights and practical strategies. 

If you find this helpful, join us bi-monthly for continued discussions! 

Who is this for?

This group is for all dads of PDAers of all ages who would like to learn more about the PDA profile associated with Autism. 

This event is part of an ongoing series, with future sessions scheduled at 5:30pm on the following dates:

  • 4th of June
  • 6th of August 
  • 1st of October (first week of school holidays) 
  • 3rd of December 

Investment: $170 + GST per session 



Meet Your Presenters 


Dr David Bonser
Clinical Psychologist  

David has experience with helping people with depression, anxiety, physical illness, neurodivergent support, physical disability needs, familial support, promoting general wellbeing, and physical health. He has worked as a private clinician since 2005 in both metropolitan and rural settings.

David draws from a range of therapeutic approaches to assist children and their families, such as Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Personality Theory.

Nicholas Wilson
Registered Psychologist 

Nicholas draws on several evidence-based modalities, predominantly neuroaffirming Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), as well as trauma-informed approaches. He now offers clients eye-movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy.

Having worked within the disability sector for the past eight years and in education for five years, Nicholas has experience working with people with a broad range of neurodivergence and mental health conditions. He also has a passion for working with gender-diverse people and young men. 

Karl Smith
Parent of Young Adult PDAers

Karl is the father of three young adults, two identified as having a PDA profile. He is also the Business Director of The Kidd Clinic, a psychology and allied health practice that focuses on supporting Autistic individuals across the lifespan. Working in the IT industry for most of his life has assisted Karl in using his passion for all things tech (and geeky) to connect with, support, and guide his children from unschooling to tertiary education and into employment.

Along the way, Karl has learned some valuable lessons, including how to undo the ways he used to think he ‘should’ parent. He is looking forward to sharing his journey of moving from just surviving as a neurodivergent father to feeling confident in his role and strongly connected to his now PDA adult children.

He has worked with and supported hundreds of diagnosed and undiagnosed Autistic men over the years in his prior field of IT and has mentored many dads of Autistic and PDA young people. Away from work, Karl’s special interests are mountain biking, swimming, and all things geek.

FAQs


Q. I can't make it this time, can I watch it later? 

We would love for this event to be an interactive experience with live participation, so unfortunately, it will not be recorded. 


Q: Can I use my child's NDIS funding?

Parents may be able to utilise NDIS funding, depending on the details outlined in their child's plan.

As we cannot provide specific advice regarding individual plans, we recommend consulting your plan manager or LAC to determine if this training is covered under your child's NDIS plan.

Please click below for an invoice request form:

Webinar Invoice Request Form 2025


Q. What is the cancellation policy?

Cancellations for any reason, including change of mind, the following terms apply: 

• Cancellations must be made in writing to events@kiddclinic.com.au.

• Cancellations made 15 days or more prior to the event will incur a 50% cancellation fee. 

• Cancellations made 14 days or less prior to the event will incur a 100% cancellation fee. 

• Refunds will not be offered in the event of non-attendance.


Check out our full Terms & Conditions here: https://the-kidd-clinic.odoo.com/terms