Mindfulness & Wellbeing Programs
Mindful-U
Uni Students
Welcome to Mindful-U
A Mindfulness Program for Neurodivergent University Students
Too often young adults embarking on university studies burn out early on, or experience ongoing feelings of stress, anxiety and overwhelm. Too often they feel they’re the only ones, when that’s simply not the case.
As individuals on the autism spectrum grow older, they often become more aware of their unique strengths and challenges. In today's fast-paced world, this self-awareness can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and depression, especially for those with average to high intellectual functioning who keenly feel the pressure to fit into a neurotypical society.
About Mindful-U
Fiona Goodall, Autism Consultant and Mindfulness and Meditation teacher, is offering an ongoing small group Mindfulness program exclusively for neurodivergent young adults. Whether you have a diagnosis or characteristics of Autism or ADHD, or if you're facing ongoing stress and anxiety, Mindful-U is designed for you.
This is a safe space designed to normalise feelings and foster connections among like-minded young adults. Our group is limited to a maximum of eight participants, ensuring a small, supportive environment.
What can you expect from Mindful-U?
Our group meets fortnightly throughout the year to provide support and learn about:
- Understanding the mind-body response to anxiety
- The basic theory of Mindfulness
- Ways to reduce and prevent stress build-up
- Recognising and managing emotions with acceptance
- Handling negative thought patterns
- Developing personalised coping strategies
- Problem-solving techniques
- Exploring a variety of meditations and mindfulness practices
- Integrating mindfulness into your daily life
- Engaging in mindful movement techniques
Program Details
Start Date: TAKING EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST
Duration: 1.5 hrs
Cost: $80 per session (inclusive of all resources)
Note: This program is open to anyone who identifies as neurodivergent, whether or not you have a diagnosis or access to government funding. We welcome all participants who feel this space could benefit them.
How to register or for more information
Email Fiona at fiona@makingconnectionstoowoomba.com.au
Further Information
Click here for Mindfulness research:
- The Health Benefits of Being Mindful (Monash University)
- Mindfulness Meditation Training Changes Brain Structure in Eight Weeks
- MiCBT Research - Selected Studies
- Mindfulness Meditation: A research-proven way to reduce stress
- When Science Meets Mindfulness
Click here to learn how it can help neurodivergent individuals:
- Mindfulness in Individual with Autism Spectrum Disorder: a Systematic Review and Narrative Analysis
- Early Reflections on the Therapeutic Effects of Mindfulness-Based Therapies in Adults with Autism and Suggestions for Future Research
- Mindfulness-based therapy in adults with autism spectrum disorder: A randomised controlled trial
Important note: This program is not a counselling, therapy or psychology service. It is intended for educational purposes related to Mindfulness and meditation only. If you have acute mental health challenges, it's crucial to consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine the suitability of this program; and if you are seeing a mental health professional or getting help from a wider support network, it's essential you continue to do so. Making Connections Toowoomba bears no responsibility for the outcomes of the program.
Mindful U
Kids & Teens
Grades 4-6: Mindful-U for Kids
Are you curious about how to manage your big feelings and calm your mind?
Mindful-U is a fun program for children in Grades 4-6. You’ll learn simple ways to help yourself feel better when you’re stressed, sad, or upset, while also learning about your brain, body and the stress response. Together, we’ll explore cool breathing exercises, easy meditation techniques, and even mindful movement games.
This is safe place where everyone’s feelings are okay, and we all support each other.
Grades 6-9: Mindful-U for Teens
Are you feeling stressed about school, friends, or just life in general?
Mindful-U can help you understand your feelings and manage your stress. This program is designed for neurodivergent teens to explore how mindfulness and meditation can make a big difference in daily life. Learn how to handle negative thoughts, reduce anxiety, and recognise emotions in a safe and supportive group of like-minded peers.
Senior Students (Grades 10-12)
Starting senior school or university can be overwhelming, so can the prospect of 'what next' after school.
If you're a neurodivergent teen or young adult, you might feel like you're carrying extra stress and pressure. Mindful-U is here to help you manage those feelings, understand your mind-body connection, and explore ways to reduce anxiety. You’ll learn coping strategies, problem-solving techniques, and how to integrate mindfulness into your everyday routine—all in a supportive, small group.
What can you expect from Mindful-U?
- Understand anxiety and your mind-body connection
- Learn basic mindfulness techniques
- Find ways to reduce stress before it builds up
- Recognize and accept emotions
- Handle negative thoughts with more ease
- Explore different meditations and mindful movement
- Develop personalized strategies for stress management
Mindful-U is your space to connect with others and explore mindfulness in a comfortable, non-judgmental environment.
Program Details
- Start Date: TAKING EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST for 2025
- Duration: 1.25 hours (over six weeks)
- Cost: $60 per session (resources included)
- Who: This program is open to anyone who identifies as neurodivergent, whether or not you have a diagnosis or access to government funding. We welcome all participants who feel this space could benefit them.
For more information:
Email:
Fiona at fiona@makingconnectionstoowoomba.com.au
Important Note: Mindful-U is not a counselling, therapy or psychology service. It’s an educational program aimed at teaching mindfulness and meditation techniques. If your young person is dealing with acute mental health challenges, please consult a healthcare professional before joining. This program is designed to complement, not replace, professional mental health care.
Mindful U
Caregivers
Welcome to Mindful-U for Caregivers
A Mindfulness Program for Parents and Caregivers of Neurodivergent Children, Teens, and Young Adults
Parenting or caring for a neurodivergent child, teen, or young adult can bring unique joys and challenges. Many caregivers find themselves feeling overwhelmed, stressed, and unsure of how best to support their loved ones, while also trying to manage their own well-being. Mindful-U is designed specifically for you—a space to learn how mindfulness can help you navigate these challenges with more calm, clarity, and compassion.
Mindful-U for Caregivers offers a space for parents and caregivers to step back, breathe, and gain practical tools for managing stress and supporting their loved ones. It also helps likeminded caregivers connect in a safe and supportive environment.
Led by Fiona Goodall, an Autism Consultant and Mindfulness and Meditation teacher, this program focuses on empowering caregivers through mindfulness techniques and providing strategies that can be used both for personal well-being and in family life.
What Can You Expect from Mindful-U?
In small, supportive group sessions, you’ll explore:
- Understanding your own stress responses and how they impact caregiving
- Using mindfulness techniques to calm your mind and body
- Managing difficult emotions with acceptance and compassion
- Creating healthy boundaries and self-care routines
- Strategies for supporting your neurodivergent child or young adult during challenging times
- Problem-solving techniques to help with daily stressors
- Simple mindfulness practices you can integrate into family life
- Building a community of caregivers who understand your journey
Program Details
- Start Date: TAKING EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST for 2025
- Duration: 1.5 hours per session over six weeks
- Cost: $80 per session (inclusive of all resources)
- Who: This program is open to any parent or caregiver who cares for a neurodivergent young person, whether or not they have a diagnosis or access to government funding. We welcome all participants who feel this space could benefit them.
Learn More
Email
Fiona at
fiona@makingconnectionstoowoomba.com.au
Important Note: Mindful-U is not a counselling, therapy or psychology service. It’s an educational program aimed at teaching mindfulness and meditation techniques. If you are dealing with acute mental health challenges, please consult a healthcare professional before joining. This program is designed to complement, not replace, professional mental health care.
