Gender Expression & Sexuality
Evidence suggests that neurodivergent individuals, particularly those diagnosed with autism, are significantly more likely to identify as LGBTQIA+ than those who are neurotypical. Recent studies have found autistic people might be three times more likely to identify as trans, up to 70% of Autistic individuals identify as queer, and neurodivergent individuals were 8 times as likely to be asexual. Some have theorised that this may be due to Autistic people being more likely to question societal gender rules rather than just accepting the current norms.
LGBTQIA+
There is a lot of research that shows a significant overlap between our neurological, sexual and gender differences. Cognassist take a look at this research and talk about the compounding barriers people face, but also celebrate our diversity and those of us brave enough to question and explore our identity.
An academic and community collaboration supporting parents of gender diverse children. Find research, resources and support for your family.
Information about social, medical and legal affirmation, as well as health and support resources. Including information to support allies and clinicians, and a language guide.
An international, interdisciplinary professional and educational organisation devoted to advancing a healthy approach to sex and gender. Our team and members strive to promote high-quality, evidence-based care for gender-nonconforming individuals all around the world. Education for families and professionals along with the podcast Gender: A Wider Lens.
Peer support to LGBTQIA+ youth through articles, interviews and video content, so young people are able to access free help online no matter what part of Australia they’re from – or the support they have from school or families.
Providing anonymous and free LGBTIQ+ peer support, information and referral for people in Australia wanting to talk about sexuality, identity, gender, bodies, feelings or relationships.
A free specialist helpline providing information, support, and referral to all LGBTIQA+ Victorians, their friends and family. Rainbow Door supports people of all ages and identities with issues that may include suicidal thoughts, family and intimate partner violence (including elder abuse), alcohol and other drugs, relationship issues, sexual assault, social isolation, mental health and wellbeing.
Books
The Autistic Trans Guide to Life by Yenn Purkis and Wenn Lawson
Sexuality & Disability
Supporting the intrinsic right of people with disability, including older people with disability, to sexual expression and physical intimacy. Providing helpful information for clients who want to access the services of sex workers. There is additional material to assist people gain a deeper understanding of some of the issues that may, or may not arise, when arranging a sex service in the FAQ section.
Understanding Neurodiversity and Sex
Sexual expression and education have too often been taught in an inaccessible way for autistic and other neurodivergent people. If they do receive education, it is often designed for allistic minds, making it difficult for many neurodivergent people to truly understand safe sex and relationships.
Sexuality, Education, Counselling and Consultancy Agency. Supporting people across the disability sector, and in mainstream services. The SECCA App, is a free resource that allows educators, carers, service providers and family members unprecedented support in teaching sexuality and its many topics to people of all abilities, across the life span.
Acknowledgment of Country
Heale Collab acknowledges the Bunurong people of the Kulin Nation who are the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we work and learn. The Bunurong people always have and always will belong to the Werribee Yalook (river), stars, hills and red clay of this Country. We recognise their continued connection and role caring for Country over thousands of generations. We pay respect to their Elders past and present who continue to preserve and protect Country, culture and community.