ASPAA - Self-Compassion Program – Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect)

Welcome to the Aspect Self-Compassion Program for Autistic Adults (ASPAA).

You can access each of the ASPAA modules from this homepage. We recommend you complete the introductory module first and then work through the rest of the modules in order. After you have completed all modules in sequential order, please feel free to jump into a specific module if you want to review any content. You can choose to complete the program independently, with a trusted person or with a trained healthcare professional.

Although self-compassion practices do not cause distress per se, some people may have negative reactions to self-compassion practices at first due to their past trauma and experiences.

Support resources are available at the bottom of this page.

Introductory Module

This short Introductory Module will give you some background information about what to expect in the program and how the program is structured.

After completing the introductory module, you can move on to the rest of the five modules, which have been thoughtfully designed to be completed in sequential order.

ASPAA modules

Module 1: Understanding self-compassion

This module will introduce you to what self-compassion is and what self-compassion isn't. We will also provide you with an exercise on "how do I treat a friend or loved one" and two practices to try (Soles of your feet and hand exercise).

Module 2: Benefits of self-compassion

This module will describe how self-compassion can benefit us as Autistic adults. The module will also provide an exercise on "common humanity." This module will also explore how self-compassion works within our bodies and conclude with a skill to practise (Soothing touch).

Module 3: Mindfulness

This module will introduce you to the mindfulness component of self-compassion. We will describe what mindfulness is and how we can practise it. This module will provide you with two skills to practise mindfulness (Compassionate body scan and 5-4-3-2-1 method). We ask that you pick the skill that is more comfortable for you to practise.

Module 4: Finding your compassionate voice

This module will help you to treat yourself with kindness. You will do an exercise to come up with your loving-kindness phrases. You will get to use the phrases in practice (Loving-kindness meditation). This module will also include a description of 'backdraft,' how things might get worse before they get better (and that is okay too).

Module 5: Accepting our experiences

In this final module of the program, we will support you to become more accepting of self-compassion experiences rather than resisting. We will encourage reflection about resistance and provide you with one final skill to practise (Three self-compassion gestures or reminders). This module will conclude with a final summary of the program.

Your journey may be difficult at times but help is available

Your well-being is our utmost priority, so we encourage you to foster a safe and nurturing environment. Although self-compassion practices do not cause distress per se, some people may have negative reactions to self-compassion practices at first due to their past trauma and experiences. We want you to know that it's okay to have difficult emotions like sadness, grief, or shame surface during your self-compassion practices (this is called backdraft, which is described in Module 4). Dr Kristin Neff and Dr Chris Germer have stated that backdraft is “an intrinsic part of the transformation process of self‐compassion.” So, the occurrence of these unpleasant emotions when practising self-compassion is a natural part of the healing journey.

If you find that past emotions or memories arise, please remember that you are not alone. If the emotions or memories become too difficult for you to cope with, it’s okay to ask for help. You may choose to reach out for support from a compassionate healthcare professional or support organisation.

A comprehensive list of international support organisations can be found at www.checkpointorg.com/global. You'll find valuable resources and contact details for organisations like Lifeline in Australia (13 11 14), Crisis Services in Canada (1-833-456-4566), Mental Health America in the USA (1-800-273-8255), and Samaritans in the UK (116 123).