5.4d Providing predictability during sessions

Think SPACE!
  • Providing predictability about what will happen during, in between and the following session provides clarity for everyone!
  • Ensuring that transitions and changes are communicated will reduce anxiety.
  • When everyone knows what they are doing and feel safe, will provide a much better experience for processing and reflecting on difficult emotions and content.

KEY ISSUES

Whether interventions are delivered one a one to one or group format, it is important to understand that Neurodivergent individuals experience a range of barriers when participating in interventions, particularly for the first time. Barriers can include anxiety about unfamiliar settings and people, what will happen during the session, and what is expected of them. Providing predictability is a key domain within the SPACE framework and can reduce situations which can cause anxiety.

PRACTICAL TIPS

Setting up

  • Start the session on time.
  • Explain when comfort breaks are scheduled and allow people to take additional breaks when needed (consider differences in interoception).
  • Remind clients that it is ok to move around.
  • Provide a script at the beginning of each session – including what will be covered.
    • What are we doing here today/now? (Sharing experiences, watching something, role play).
    • Provide clarity around roles so everyone knows what to expect (What is expected of them? What can they expect from you? How and when are they expected to contribute?).
    • Have a timetable for the session (this could include aims and objectives and steps of each exercise written on a flipchart).

Completing a session

  • Make sure to finish the session on time.
  • Say what will be covered in the following session (pre-prepared written outlines might be helpful to demonstrate in session).
  • Explain what is expected of them in between sessions and check that they understand (prepare simple bullet pointed instructions).

Transitions

Provide as much advance notice and information as possible regarding:

  • Change of venue or room.
  • Cancellation of session.
  • New and/or absent staff.
  • New group members or when one is leaving (if delivering in a group format).