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Pathological Demand Avoidance, sometimes reframed as Persistent Drive for Autonomy, is a profile that many people within the autism community recognise. Although PDA is not a formal diagnosis in current diagnostic manuals, many clinicians and autistic individuals describe it as a meaningful way of understanding patterns of demand avoidance that stem from anxiety, uncertainty, and a strong need for autonomy. PDA is often misunderstood, which can lead to unhelpful assumptions or the belief that individuals are being deliberately oppositional. A neuroaffirming perspective helps us understand PDA as a valid part of neurodiversity. It shifts the focus away from control and compliance and towards emotional safety, autonomy, and collaboration. What Is PDA PDA describes an anxiety driven need to avoid everyday demands, even when the person wants to participate. These demands may feel overwhelming or threatening because they involve expectation, uncertainty, or a loss of control. Common characteristics described in the PDA profile include: A strong need to avoid demands, sometimes using strategies like humour, negotiation, distraction, or retreat A style of communication that may appear socially confident at first but does not always match deeper social understanding Rapid changes in mood, often linked to pressure or anxiety A comfort with imaginative play or adopting roles, which can help manage stressful situations These behaviours are not acts of defiance. They are protective responses from a nervous system that experiences demands as a source of intense stress. Is PDA a Diagnosis PDA is not recognised as an independent diagnosis in the DSM or ICD. Many professionals view it as a profile within autism, while others see it as a pattern that can appear in a range of neurodivergent presentations. There is ongoing debate, and research is still developing. Despite this, PDA is increasingly recognised in multidisciplinary autism assessments, particularly in the United Kingdom. Families and practitioners often find the PDA framework useful because it offers a way to understand demand avoidance compassionately and practically. Why Understanding PDA Matters People with PDA are often described as oppositional or non compliant, when in reality their behaviour reflects: high anxiety sensitivity to expectations a need for predictability a strong drive for autonomy and control When misunderstood, young people and adults with PDA may experience unnecessary conflict, shame, or burnout. A more informed perspective encourages compassion and supportive strategies instead of pressure or discipline. Neuroaffirming Approaches to Supporting PDA Supporting individuals with PDA is most effective when the focus is on reducing pressure, building trust, and supporting autonomy. Reduce Demands Where Possible Small changes can make a big difference. Indirect language, gentle invitations, choices, humour, and collaborative problem solving reduce pressure and help the person stay regulated. Traditional reward systems or consequences often increase anxiety and are less effective. Increase Autonomy A sense of control helps reduce distress. Offering choices, negotiating tasks, and allowing flexibility helps build cooperation and reduces overwhelm. Support Emotional Safety PDA is closely linked to anxiety and uncertainty. Predictable routines, sensory supports, clear expectations, and a calm supportive presence can help reduce stress. Connection and co regulation often pave the way for engagement. Work With Strengths Creativity, quick thinking, focused interests, humour, and imaginative play are often strong tools for learning and communication. Using these strengths helps build confidence and makes participation feel safe. A Neurodiversity Affirming Perspective Some clinicians and advocates argue that the term PDA can be pathologising, because it suggests something is wrong with a person’s natural need for autonomy. Alternative terms like Persistent Drive for Autonomy reflect a more respectful understanding of how the individual experiences the world. This perspective views PDA as a difference rather than a problem and focuses on approaches that prioritise dignity, safety, and empowerment. Summary PDA is a meaningful way to understand how some autistic and neurodivergent individuals respond to demands. It is not about refusing for the sake of it. It is about managing anxiety, protecting autonomy, and navigating a world that often feels unpredictable or overwhelming. Awareness and compassionate understanding help families, educators, support workers, and clinicians create environments where individuals with PDA can feel heard, respected, and supported to thrive. References PDA Society. Identification and Assessment of a PDA Profile. Gerlach, J. (2024). Five Things to Know About Pathological Demand Avoidance. Psychology Today. Naseef, R., Shore, S. (2025). Reframing Pathological Demand Avoidance. Autism Spectrum News. Science Insights (2026). What Is a PDA Diagnosis. AuDHD Psychiatry UK (2026). What Is PDA Autism. PDA North America (2025). Understanding and Supporting PDA.

Supporting children to feel calm, confident, and successful in busy community environments

Supporting your child while remembering that your wellbeing matters too.

 By Tharon Neurodivergent Consultant at helpz

Secret Agent Society (often called SAS ) is an evidence‑based social skills program designed to support children who find social and emotional situations challenging. It helps children learn how to understand their own feelings, read social cues, manage big emotions, and build positive relationships, all through a fun, engaging “secret agent” theme. Rather than focusing on what children struggle with, SAS builds on strengths. Children become “secret agents in training,” learning practical skills that they can use at school, at home, and in everyday life. Who is Secret Agent Society for? SAS is commonly used to support children who: Have autism or ADHD Experience anxiety or emotional regulation difficulties Struggle with friendships, social confidence, or peer interactions Find it hard to manage anger, frustration, or worry The program is typically suited to primary‑school‑aged children, with adaptations available depending on individual needs. What does the program focus on? Secret Agent Society supports children to develop skills in key areas, including: Recognising and understanding emotions (their own and others’) Managing anxiety, anger, and strong emotional reactions Problem‑solving and flexible thinking Conversation skills and friendship building Coping with mistakes, change, and unexpected situations Skills are taught in a clear, structured way, using games, stories, role‑play, and practical activities that keep children engaged and motivated. Why families value SAS One of the strengths of Secret Agent Society is that it doesn’t just support the child, it supports the whole environment around them . Parents and caregivers are actively involved and are provided with strategies to reinforce skills at home. This helps children practise what they’ve learned in real‑life situations, making the skills more meaningful and long‑lasting. Families often report improvements in: Emotional regulation and resilience Confidence in social situations Understanding of feelings and behaviour Communication at home and school Reduced anxiety around peer interactions An evidence‑based approach Secret Agent Society is grounded in research and widely used by psychologists, behaviour support practitioners, and allied health professionals in Australia and internationally. Its structured, predictable format works particularly well for children who benefit from routine and clear expectations. Register your interest We are exploring opportunities to offer Secret Agent Society programs and would love to hear from families who may be interested. If you think this program could benefit your child, or if you’d like to learn more, we invite you to register your interest. This helps us understand demand and plan future groups that best meet the needs of our community.

This Mother’s Day, we pause to celebrate all mums. The women whose love, resilience, and quiet determination shape families, communities, and futures every single day. Motherhood looks different for every family. For some, it includes balancing work and caregiving. For others, it means navigating systems like the NDIS , advocating fiercely for their children, coordinating appointments, planning for the future, and holding the family unit together, often without complaint, recognition, or pause. These mums rarely ask for anything, but that does not mean they don’t need support, understanding, and space to be seen. It is a privilege to walk alongside families on their journeys, and this Mother’s Day we are especially proud to spotlight Caitlin and her beautiful son, Rockie . Caitlin has stepped into motherhood with remarkable care, strength, and unwavering love. From the very beginning, she has embraced this new chapter wholeheartedly, and it shows in every interaction she shares with Rockie. Her nurturing presence, dedication, and commitment to his wellbeing are deeply evident. And Rockie is absolutely thriving. He is strong, healthy, and full of smiles and giggles, with a delightful little cheeky side that lights up every room he enters. Watching the bond between Caitlin and Rockie is a powerful reminder of the impact a responsive, loving, and attuned parent can have. Like so many mums, Caitlin is doing more than just “showing up.” She is learning, adapting, advocating, planning, and growing, often all at once. Motherhood is not a static role; it evolves constantly, and Caitlin continues to grow in confidence and capability as a mother with grace and determination. This Mother’s Day, we also acknowledge the invisible work carried by so many mothers: The mental load of planning and coordinating care The emotional labour of advocacy and decision‑making The strength required to navigate complex systems and supports The love that keeps families grounded, even on the hardest days To all the mums, new mums, seasoned mums, working mums, stay‑at‑home mums, mums navigating disability and support systems, and mums quietly holding everything together, we see you. And to Caitlin: we are proud to walk alongside you on this journey. Happy Mother’s Day to a truly wonderful mum.

Caring for a child with a disability is deeply meaningful work, but it can also be physically, emotionally, and mentally demanding. Healthy Mothers Healthy Families (HMHF) is a powerful, evidence‑based online resource created specifically to support mothers of children with disability to care for themselves, alongside caring for their families. HMHF is a 100% not‑for‑profit health education and empowerment program, designed in Australia and grounded in extensive research. More than 2,000 mothers have contributed to the development and evaluation of the program, ensuring the content reflects both lived experience and best‑practice evidence. What does the program offer? The HMHF website provides free access to a structured online program made up of practical, self‑paced modules. These modules support mothers to reflect, reset, and build sustainable habits that promote wellbeing, including: Understanding the journey of motherhood when raising a child with disability Managing stress and supporting mental health Building health‑promoting routines such as movement, nutrition, and rest Finding time for self‑care without guilt Strengthening support networks and community connections Creating balance and resilience for the long term The program integrates research findings with the real voices and stories of mothers, helping participants feel understood, validated, and less alone. Why this resource matters Research consistently shows that the health and wellbeing of parents and caregivers directly impacts family functioning and outcomes for children. HMHF recognises this and places mothers’ wellbeing at the centre, without judgment, pressure, or unrealistic expectations. The focus is on small, meaningful changes that fit real family life. Who is it for? Healthy Mothers Healthy Families is ideal for: Mothers of children with disability at any stage of their journey Mothers experiencing stress, burnout, or reduced wellbeing Families seeking preventative, strengths‑based wellbeing support Professionals looking for a high‑quality, free resource to recommend to families How to access The full program and learning modules are freely available online and can be accessed anytime, anywhere. Explore the program: Healthy Mothers Healthy Families

The NDIS continues to evolve. In 2026, many participants and families are feeling the impact of legislative updates, tighter plan reassessments, funding scrutiny and an increased emphasis on evidence and measurable outcomes. For some, this has meant shorter plans. For others, requests for additional documentation or functional evidence. For many, it has meant uncertainty. If you are feeling unsure about what these changes mean for you or your family member, you are not alone. Understanding what is shifting, and why, can help you prepare and advocate with confidence. The reform context The National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Getting the NDIS Back on Track No. 1) Act 2024 introduced structural reforms designed to improve the long-term sustainability and consistency of the Scheme. Legislation: https://www.legislation.gov.au/Details/C2024A00055 Funding decisions continue to be guided by Section 34 of the NDIS Act . The broader reform direction was shaped by the Independent Review of the NDIS . What is actually changing for participants in 2026 Participants are experiencing: • Stronger application of “reasonable and necessary” criteria • Greater emphasis on functional evidence • Increased documentation requirements • More structured plan variations and reassessments • Closer alignment between goals and funded supports • Heightened compliance and cost scrutiny The NDIA Operational Guidelines clarify that supports must relate directly to functional impairment.able-and-necessary-supports The Disability Royal Commission Final Report . NDIS Quarterly Reports . The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare . Practical steps before your next plan review Request updated functional assessments early. Align goals clearly to daily functioning. Document changes, regression or increased needs. Outline risks if therapy reduces or ceases. Track measurable progress. Seek written clarification where needed. At helpz, we prioritise clear reporting, measurable outcomes and collaborative communication to support participants through change.