Ann Wilson: We Need to Talk About Talking

Communication is at the heart of effective therapy, yet autistic and non-autistic people can experience and interpret communication in very different ways. When these differences are not recognised, misunderstandings can arise, creating barriers to trust, engagement and positive therapeutic outcomes.

In this practical talk, Ann Wilson explores what autistic adults have told us about their experiences of communication during Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). Drawing on findings from her doctoral research, Ann will share what autistic people found helpful, how they navigated communication breakdowns when they occurred, and the strategies they used to make therapy work for them.

The session will also consider how autistic people can advocate for their communication needs and what reasonable adjustments may be helpful when working with therapists who have limited knowledge of autistic communication styles. Whether you are autistic, a family member, researcher, clinician or practitioner, this talk will offer helpful insights into creating more accessible, effective and genuinely collaborative therapeutic conversations.

About Ann:

Ann Wilson has worked as a Speech and Language Therapist for over 30 years and as a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist for the past six. She currently works as a Diagnostic Therapist within Berkshire Healthcare's Adult Autism Team, having previously worked in children's autism services.
Ann is currently completing her PhD at the University of Reading, exploring communication in autism and CBT. She lives with her family and a border collie who is an enthusiastic supporter of walks, snacks, ball chasing and absolutely none of her research deadlines. As the parent of two adult children, one neurotypical and one neurodivergent, Ann brings both professional expertise and personal experience to her work.

About the Wellbeing Hub:

The Wellbeing Hub is a new initiative, funded by University of Reading Alumni. The aim of the Hub is to bring together autistic people, their families, practitioners and researchers to co-produce and deliver neurodiversity-affirming activities that support autistic young people and their families to thrive and flourish.

If you have any questions about the Hub or any of our events, please contact cfaevents@reading.ac.uk

All previous talks given by the University of Reading's Centre for Autism Wellbeing Hub public speakers can be found on the Wellbeing Hub's YouTube channel

Please read the Wellbeing Hub Events Terms

The Centre for Autism Wellbeing Hub is very grateful for the support of our donors, whose funds make our work possible.If you would like to make a donation, please click the link – CfA Wellbeing Hub Donations

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