Graduate Research Degree Awarded - Charmaine Bernie

Congratulations to Charmaine Bernie - Graduate Research Degree Awarded 29 March 2022.

Degree: PhD
Supervisors: Prof Katrina Williams, Dr Tamara May
Advisory Committee: Dr Melinda Randall, Dr Amanda Brignell, Prof Harriet Hiscock

Thesis Title: Understanding and Supporting Children and Families on the Pathway to Autism Assessment

Thesis Summary: Methods to improve outcomes for children waiting for autism assessment were explored in this work, with findings suggesting that coaching parents to support functional goal attainment, prior to assessment is feasible, with fewer drop-outs when offered via videoconference compared to face-to-face intervention. Online coaching may assist child and family goals to be realised prior to diagnostic assessment, and improve service access during waiting periods when compared to usual care.

Date awarded: 29 March 2022