Autism, PDA, Alexithymia and Mutism

“This material is currently licensed for use only by Early Break UK and not for wider distribution” The PowerPoint supports the training delivered to Early Break on 29 April 2026. It is shared to support ongoing reflection and continued learning. It signposts to further resources. The neurodiversity-affirming introduction to autism, PDA, selective/situational mutism, and alexithymia is focused on deepening understanding of how different neurotypes experience the world and how our responses as practitioners can either support that experience. Grounded in both research and lived experience, the training introduces key frameworks which can be layered with traditional, neurotypical-centric tools. The ICIC model (“I See, I See”), which provides practitioners with a self-supervision tool. The FECit Model which focuses the practitioner on the relationship between functioning, environment and context. The importance of relationship is pronounced. Anxiety is explored as a meaningful, protective response to environmental mismatch rather than something to simply reduce or manage. PDA, Alexithymia and Mutism are explored through these same lenses where autonomy is observed as a safety-seeking response. Practical, adaptable ways of working are suggested. Such as: * Thought-based and narrative approaches as entry points for understanding experience * Ways to support communication beyond speech * Using patterns, context, and meaning-making rather than “correct” perceptions of emotional language * How to prioritise safety, flexibility, and relational connection This resource is designed to complement the in-person training and is currently available exclusively to Early Break practitioners in its present format.