Women’s Health and Wellbeing Services is a not for profit organisation that works with women and families in the community to reduce the impact of mental health problems on families and to help foster growth, for strong women and strong families. Your small change will make a big change!
Beyond the Mask: Women’s Seminar 2026 is a one-day community education event presented by Women’s Health & Wellbeing Services. Building on the success of previous ADHD & Women seminars, this year’s event explores the often overlooked intersection of autism and ADHD (AuDHD) in women — a group frequently underdiagnosed due to gender bias and masking.
Featuring expert speakers, the seminar will cover topics including dopamine seeking, self-doubt in AuDHD, and neurodivergent burnout, along with practical strategies for everyday life.
Designed for women with lived experience, families and support networks, and health professionals, the day offers insight, connection, and tools to better understand and support neurodivergent women.
Even the most outwardly successful people can struggle with imposter syndrome – particularly AuDHDer women – holding us back despite our passion and ability. And it can be deafeningly loud if we’ve had any kind of criticism in the past. Von has had her own journey with self-doubt and will share practical tips for doing the things that matter to you regardless. What you have to share with the world is too important to be silenced by constant worrying about whether you’re doing it right!
Von Kilpatrick – BA, GDipAppPsych, MAppPsych
Von is a psychologist, co-director of a private practice, and an AuDHDer. She’s also a parent and partner in a neurodiverse family and has lots of compassion and opinions about the journey of neurodivergent people at home and in the workplace. She’s proud to have helped create a trauma responsive and neurodiversity affirming practice and is delighted to be able to share clinical and organisational know-how through professional development and community presentations. Von is a big fan of board games (except Monopoly!), gardening, and Australian crime fiction.
Neurodivergent burnout is a state of deep physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion that can occur when Autistic and/or ADHDers spend long periods masking, pushing through overwhelm, and trying to keep up with environments that don’t fit our needs.
This interactive session explores how burnout shows up in the AuDHD community and why traditional burnout models often miss the mark. Through reflection, discussion, and practical strategies, participants will explore ways to recognise burnout earlier, support nervous system regulation, manage energy more sustainably, and create environments that reduce chronic overload.
Together we’ll look at the impact of masking, identity and self-understanding, boundaries and supports, and practical ways to move toward a more sustainable rhythm of life and work.
Dr Theresa Kidd – BA Psych (Hons.) PhD (Clinical Psychology)
Dr Theresa Kidd is a clinical psychologist, research fellow, author, and the clinical director of The Kidd Clinic, a private, national psychology group practice focused on Autism, ADHD, and mental health across the lifespan. Theresa is committed to helping neurodivergent individuals of all ages to minimise their challenges, harness their strengths and to achieve meaningful life goals. Drawing from her own experience of living within a neurodivergent family, Theresa is passionate about increasing family quality of life by assisting families to be as strong and healthy as possible.
Dr Miriam Kirby – BA (Hons) PhD(Clinical Psychology)
Dr. Miriam Kirby is a clinical psychologist passionate about supporting and affirming neurodivergent individuals and their families. Her role includes providing therapeutic support and treatment of co-occurring mental health conditions to individuals of all ages. She also provides adult autism assessments, parenting support and problem-solving sessions, and enjoys helping like-minded people connect through small, interest-based groups.
Presentation 1 – The intersection of autism & ADHD
Our discussion on the intersection of ADHD & Autism (AuDHD) and fluctuating hormones on functional capacity will be a conversational style discussion between Natalee (therapist) and Bethany (doctor) around current evidenced based and lived experience research about the strengths, challenges, and everything in-between for females navigating hormonal fluctuations.
Presentation 2 -ADHD medications; how they interact with women
What are the pro’s and cons of medication support for ADHD and hormonal fluctuations? Bethany and Natalee, will engage in a conversational style discussion about a holistic support approach for females with fluctuating hormones.
Natalee Blakemore
Natalee is an AuDHD and other multiple divergent differences, mental health occupational therapist and director of Diversum Health Group in Fremantle, Western Australia.
She is a mum of two kidults and one teenager, who are also neurodivergent.
Natalee is a creative, who enjoys dancing to electronic dance music, and spending time in nature.
Natalee is passionate about working in the disability and mental health space and brings with her a lived experience and clinical experience of working with people across the lifespan.
Dr Bethany Reynolds – MBBS/BMedSci(Hons)
Bethany is an AuDHD GP who works in Canning Vale and Northbridge. She is the mum of one human and one dog, is a Swiftie who enjoys reading, dancing, ice hockey and collecting new hobbies. She has a special interest in Neurodiversity and its many co-occurring conditions, particularly how they impact women across the lifespan. She is the outgoing chair of the WA RACGP new Fellows Committee, member of the RACGP WA Council and Australia Menopause Society member.
Many women with ADHD may find routines and schedules restrictive, potentially limiting their spontaneity. However, an absence of structure can lead to decreased productivity and increased frustration. This presentation will explore strategies for identifying routines which will provide the best ‘bang for your buck’. It will then help you to design those routines in a way that suits your individual ‘brand of ADHD’, and even make them enjoyable!
Dr Michele Toner OAM
Michele Toner is co-author with Professor Desiree Silva of “The ADHD Go-to-Guide” originally published in 2017 and recently revised to include information for Parents, Adults, Educators and Employers. Their book has been translated into Japanese.
She was the first credentialled ADHD coach in Australia and in 2024 became the first Australian ADHD coach to hold the credential of Master Certified Coach (MCC) with the International Coaching Federation (ICF). She is a senior faculty member of the ADD Coach Academy in New York where she trains and mentors ADHD coaches.
In addition to her coaching, Michele works passionately to promote ADHD Awareness and Advocacy. She has been involved with ADHD WA since 1995, and currently is Chair of their Board of Management. Alongside her work at ADHD WA, she held inaugural board positions for ADHD Australia, and The Australian Association of ADHD Professionals (AADPA)
Michele was awarded an OAM in 2021 for her work in the ADHD space.
Have your questions answered by ADHD experts during our Q&A session.
During the seminar, you’ll have the chance to jot down any questions for our speakers. At the end of the day, a selection of these questions will be addressed.
Parking
Enter via Gate 1 or 2 on Station Street (map on following page). Proceed to the Agricultural pavilion. NO PARKING ON GRASS. Overflow Parking towards the back of the facility, closest to Bunnings-Liege St Entrance, Gate 4.
Public Transport
Northbound (Toward Perth): Stop 10030 (Albany Hwy Before Fletcher St) is located directly adjacent to the showgrounds precinct.
Southbound (Away from Perth): Stop 10031 (Albany Hwy After George St West) is located on the opposite side of the highway.
Alternative: The Cannington Train Station is also within walking distance (approx. 15-20 mins) if arriving via the Armadale Line
Catering & Refreshments
Morning & Afternoon tea provided (gluten free and vegetarian options only) included in ticket price
Coffee van onsite for purchases from 8:15am – limited panini and salad will be available to purchase at lunch also
BYO Lunch or walk 700m to Westfield Carousel or nearby food outlets
Cold water fountain on external of building outside bathroom corridor
Tea and instant coffee available throughout the day – help yourself. Disposable cups only available
Dietary requirments
Rotary Volunteers have generously fundraised and donated catering & their valuable time prepping prior & serving on the day. Please be kind and considerate. As outlined on booking page, we can only offer vegetarian & gluten free items, ensuring ticket prices remain accessible. Thanks for your understanding & support of our dedicated volunteers!
While every effort has been made to provide a variety of food options, we are unable to guarantee that any items are free from specific allergens or that cross-contamination has not occurred during preparation.
If you have food allergies, intolerances, or dietary requirements that could pose a health risk, we strongly recommend bringing your own food to ensure your safety and peace of mind throughout the day.
Accessibility
Seating option – please let us know if you would like to reserve a front or aisle seat for people using wheelchairs or walking aids
Accessible toilet onsite
If you need a break from the presentations, please step out to the quiet grass areas surrounding our pavilion.
Information
Seminar program and slide PDFs sent prior to the event. Timeframe dependent on volunteer guest speakers. We are grateful for their time and ask that you are considerate of them donating their time to this educational event.
No copies of slides will be available on the day, please print at home if you would like to take notes.
Recognition
A digital Certificate of Attendance to acknowledge your participation will be sent to your email in the weeks after the event. We ask that you add guests names when booking tickets to ensure your +1 receives their certificate also.
Networking Opportunities
Connect with fellow attendees who have lived, carer, or professional experience with ADHD. Access to a range of exhibitors & local service providers on the day for ongoing support.
Seminar Exhibitors
Participants can cancel their registration up to 7 days before the seminar commences (Through Eventbrite) and will be entitled to a full refund (minus the administration fees).
However, cancellations made after this deadline will not qualify for a refund.
Refunds for cancellations made within the specified timeframe will be processed promptly and in the original form of payment.
Should you have any inquiries or require assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
We are fortunate to have the support of our generous sponsors, whose contributions are essential to the success of this year’s seminar.
Their backing enables us to reach and inform as many people as possible.
As a valued partner, your sponsorship can offer your company substantial benefits:
Brand Visibility: Enhance your organisation’s marketing and branding presence among a targeted audience.
Event Access: Secure exclusive tickets to the seminar, offering unique networking opportunities.
Promotional and Stall Holder Opportunity:
Platinum Sponsor $450:
Gold Sponsor $250:
Supporter $150 or donate a raffle prize
Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to connect with a vibrant community. For more info, check out the package below or contact rebecca.mccready@whws.org.au.
Creative Soul Sessions
Donating an original and one-off piece of artwork. Canvas is 40cm x 50cm
Valued at $150
Annasha Day Spa
This massage involves using slow rhythmic strokes to ease the nervous system while stimulating blood and lymph circulation to bring about total revitalisation. This treatment is both calming and balancing for the body, creating a sense of wellbeing and deep relaxation.
Calming Kids Australia
Donation of a copy of the Energy: The Framework, Tools, Strategies & Logic to Support Regulation Book
About the book: A written walk-through of all the Autism Level UP! tools and ways of thinking about supporting regulation for yourself or others. Designed with Autistic and Neurodivergent people in mind, but perfectly suitable for all neurotypes!
Valued at $133.95
Tedology
Donating a Tedology Bear Well-being Kit
This Teddy is more than just a teddy bear, Its a multi-sensory comforting companion with a voice box that guides children through a range of tried and tested activities helping children talk about emotions, understand how to calm big feelings and build confidence
With features like fidget-friendly paws, a lightly weighted body and sensory tags, Teddy offers a multi-sensory experience that supports emotional well-being and resilience.
The kit also includes feelings cards, games, children’s workbooks, guidance for adults, and webinar support , helping emotional wellbeing become part of everyday moments.
Valued at $259
Euphoria Jewels
Vouchers to be used towards custom making or purchasing a new piece of jewellery from Euphoria Jewels.
Valued at $500
Women’s Health & Wellbeing Services
2027 ADHD Seminar and workshops tickets
Donating two tickets to each of our ADHD workshops, infomation sessions & seminar for 2027
Valued at $500
Donating 2 x Adult Hoyts vouchers
Thrive Wellness Centre
3 x $120 Hyperbaric Sessions
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy involves spending time in a specially designed pressurised chamber while breathing oxygen through a mask.
The combination of increased atmospheric pressure and oxygen creates a unique environment that many people choose to incorporate into their overall wellness and recovery routines.
Sessions are designed to be comfortable and relaxing. Depending on the chamber selected, you may choose to lie down, recline in a comfortable chair, watch television, listen to music, read a book or simply enjoy some uninterrupted quiet time.
As a not-for-profit organisation, all proceeds from this event go directly towards supporting women and families in our community.
Thanks to the generosity of our raffle donors, we can raise additional funds on the day, which will help grow our financial hardship fund, ensuring that we can assist women and families regardless of their financial situation.
Please contact rebecca.mccready@whws.org.au if you/your organisation would like to donate to the raffle prize draw on the day – thanks in advance for your support!
For more of our upcoming workshops and events, please click here.
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