Welcome to DISTRACTD for October at our wonderful new home HOTA ( the home of the arts). Its very exciting to be able to do these events here in such a cool space. We hope you all have a wonderful time and learn something new tonight.
Thankyou so much for coming along and being part of our community. . If its your first night at a DISTRACTD event, WELCOME. And if you are returning that is wonderful. I am really thankful for our little community where we are able to chat about all things ADHD and feel no judgement or pressure to be anything other than ourselves. I really appreciate you coming along to support each other and I enjoy meeting you all each month.
Tonights schedule
6:00pm: Guest Arrival & Amanda DISTRACTD Founder to do official intro and welcome.
6:15 pm : Speaker 1 : Dr Kristy Bayliss
6:30 pm : Speaker 2 : Kym Robinson from Therapywell
7:00 pm : 15 min break
7:15 pm : Q & A begins
8:30 pm : Event officially concludes
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/d_istractd
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DISTRACTD
T Shirts and Merch
Our T shirts and new pencils are on sale tonight .
JOIN THE MOVEMENT of Unity and support with our DISTRACTD T's. They are $30
"These shirts are more than just clothing - They are a symbol of Solidarity and acceptance . Wear it proudly to show that you stand with those with ADHD offering a silent nod of understanding and support. Together, lets create a community where everyone feels seen, accepted and valued." Amanda Gorman
Introducing the ADHD Affirmation Pencils: Quirky Reminders for Busy Minds
Whether you’re navigating life’s whirlwind or simply trying to remember that free trial you still haven’t cancelled, these pencils are here to bring a smile and a gentle nudge! With eight delightfully relatable phrases like “I knew better but I did it anyway” and “Is there wet washing to hang out?” — these colorful companions are perfect for taming the chaos or embracing it with a grin.
These make for the perfect cute, dopamine-seeking impulse purchase to brighten up your desk — or a thoughtful gift for someone you know with ADHD to show them that you see them, support them, and share a laugh at some of those little challenges we all know too well. Because sometimes, we all need a reminder to stay on top of things… or at least have a good chuckle about not!
They are $8.50
Meet your speakers:
Host
Amanda Gorman - Founder of DISTRACTD
Amanda Gorman is passionate about building an ADHD community where we can connect with like minded individuals , bring our Boss, Work mates, Friends, Tutor, Coach, Teacher, Parent, Sibling,Neighbour or anyone we we think will benefit from learning more about ADHD and of course for US ourselves to all learn more ourselves.
Speaker
Dr Kristy Bayliss General Practitioner with a Special Interest in Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Dr. Kristy is a dedicated and compassionate GP who brings a wealth of expertise in neurodevelopmental disorders, including ADHD, autism, and more.
With a special interest in helping individuals and families navigate the unique strengths and challenges of these conditions, Dr. Kristy combines clinical insight with a down-to-earth approach. Passionate about advocating for patient-centered neuroaffirming care, she are committed to improving the quality of life for children and adults alike.
@doc_bayliss
Speaker
Kym Robinson Speech Pathologist and Director of Therapywell
Hello, I’m Kym,
I’ve been a practising Speech Pathologist for over 30 years and have extensive experience working with language and learning difficulties, particularly in the area of Mental Health, and including the more specialist areas of trauma and forensic mental health. I am passionate about advocating for strengths within the neurodiversity spectrum and giving individuals the skills and confidence to ‘have their say’. I have a strong commitment to maintaining a high standard of knowledge and skills in my areas of special interest – communication and complex social – emotional – behavioural challenges. I work with individuals across all developmental stages of childhood, adolescence and adulthood.
Interventions
I’ve undertaken additional training in Hanen – You Make The Difference, It Takes Two To Talk, More Than Words, Talkability - and Talking Mats. I have also completed the Social Thinking® Clinical Training, Level 1 (Boston, US) in 2018, and maintained continued professional development in the Social Thinking® methodology.
I have a holistic approach to the management of communication disorders, bringing together my experience from educational, health and private sectors, management and teaching positions. I also have extensive experience supervising and mentoring students and professionals.
As a professional Speech Pathologist, I am dedicated to the advocacy of the Speech Pathology profession, and in particular the area of Mental Health. I have presented at local, national and international conferences on topics related to complex social-emotional and behavioural disorders, facilitated workshops, and been invited to present at a range of organisations.
WORKPLACE NEURODIVERSITY TRAINING DID YOU SAY???
Bring Neurodiversity to the Forefront of Your Workplace!We’re now offering an exciting new training program—think of it like a first aid refresher course, but for creating a more neuroinclusive workplace! Our facilitators come to you, either in-person or online, to guide your team through essential topics like neuroinclusive onboarding, advertising and interviewing practices, workplace accommodations, and crafting effective policies.
We see so many entrepreneurs and innovators who are neurodiverse, and we want you to see the positives in having these out-of-the-box thinkers thriving in your workplace. Developed in partnership with DISTRACTD and local leading GPs, psychologists, and psychiatrists, our program takes a strengths-based approach, covering the good, the bad, and the unexpected—helping your organization build a supportive environment where neurodiverse talent is celebrated.
Ready to take the next step? Submit your expression of interest, and let’s work together to create a workplace where every unique mind is empowered to succeed!
email to amanda@amandagormanartist.com to register your EOI.
Register here for the free for the parenting unfiltered summit happening now over at the incremental shift
Recommended reading / Viewing / Listening:
Additude Mag Podcast Library ( so many amazing podcasts )
Job Access program
Individuals with ADHD in Australia can access financial assistance through the Employment Assistance Fund (EAF) offered by JobAccess, a government initiative. The EAF provides funding for workplace modifications, equipment, and support services to help employees with disabilities, including ADHD, perform their job duties effectively.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the EAF, you must meet the following criteria:
Have a diagnosed disability or mental health condition, such as ADHD which is expected to last for more than 2 years.
Be currently employed, or self-employed for 8 or more hours per week and expected to continue in this role for at least 13 weeks.
Require workplace adjustments, equipment, support or services to perform your job duties.
Funding Coverage
The EAF can cover various expenses related to disability or ADHD, including:
Specialised Support and Training Packages: Up to $1,562 per eligible employee within a 12-month period for individuals with ADHD or other specific learning disorders.
Workplace adjustments and modifications: Capped at $62,490 for physical workplace adjustments and building modifications.
Disability awareness training: Up to $1,562 per employee with a disability within a 12-month period to educate colleagues about ADHD and create an inclusive work environment.
Application Process
To apply for the EAF, follow these steps:
Click here to go to the application page
Follow the instructions to submit an online application, providing details about your employment, disability, and required adjustments or equipment.
Once approved, the funding will be provided to cover the costs.
If you require a support letter, your doctor or healthcare professional can write you one indicating how this funding would improve your ability to continue employment.
It's important to note that the application for the EAF should be made before enrolling in any program or purchasing equipment, as the funding is not provided retroactively.
By accessing the JobAccess Employment Assistance Fund, individuals with ADHD in Australia can receive financial support to create an inclusive and accommodating work environment, enabling them to perform their job duties effectively and reach their full potential.
Amanda joined Bern Young for her NIGHTLIFE national radio program to discuss ADHD in the workplace
Listen here
Amandas TED Talk
Spill the ADHD Tea! ☕️
Want to be featured in our upcoming monthly program? We’d love to spotlight our amazing ADHD community! Share your story in “The ADHD Minute”: a quick profile where you tell us about your quirks, passions, and what keeps you motivated (or hilariously distracted!). It’s your chance to spill the ADHD tea and let others see a bit of the real, relatable you. ✨ Interested? Let us know, and let’s show off the diverse and dynamic voices of our community! email amanda direct at amanda@amandagormanartist.com
Thank you for becoming a part of our community. Make sure to stay connected with us, stay in touch, and join us at our monthly events.
We are eager to discover your favorite podcasts, books, videos, groups, and more to share with our audience. Please reach out to Amanda via email at amanda@amandagormanartist.com
Thank you for your attendance, and special thanks to Dr Kristy Bayliss and Kym Robinson for their valuable time and expertise. I would also like to express my gratitude to my family and friends who help making this come together each month and of course to the great staff at HOTA for helping us to run so smoothly.
Amanda and the DISTRACTD crew xx
Partner with Us!
We’re always looking to build meaningful partnerships with those who want to support our vibrant ADHD community. Interested in becoming a sponsor? We have a variety of sponsorship packages available to help amplify your brand while making a positive impact. Let’s work together to create something amazing! Reach out to us to learn more.
Next months event is here at HOTA on the 6th November from 6pm - 8:30 pm. We have Sarah Gurrin and Hamilton (East Coast Asssessments) along with Monique Mitchelson ( the neurodivergent woman podcast ) joining us
Ticket link to DISTRACTD for next month will be direct with HOTA at this link below.
Comments