Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Resources

What is Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)?

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A different journey of brain and body development

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is a lifelong brain-based condition that occurs when a developing baby is exposed to alcohol before birth. This exposure can change the way the brain grows and works, leading to differences in thinking, learning, and managing emotions. FASD is not about poor parenting or someone “choosing” to behave a certain way. It’s a neurological difference. With early understanding, the right supports, and a safe environment, children and adults with FASD can build on their strengths and thrive.

Everyone with FASD is unique

No two people with FASD are exactly alike. Some may have challenges with memory, impulse control, or sensory sensitivities. Others may experience difficulties with planning, staying focused, or understanding cause and effect. Every person brings their own personality, abilities, and ways of learning. Recognising and adapting to these differences is key to unlocking potential and building confidence.

Support should remove barriers, not add pressure

Because FASD is brain-based, traditional approaches like punishment or “trying harder” don’t work and often make things worse. People with FASD need strategies that reduce stress, adapt to their brain’s processing style, and build success step by step. With understanding and consistency, we can create environments that feel safe and predictable, giving individuals the chance to develop skills and independence.

Championing People with FASD

If you’re raising a child, supporting a loved one, or working alongside someone with FASD, you may wonder how to truly help them thrive. The good news is, you don’t need to change who they are you just need the right understanding, tools, and supports around them. People with FASD do best when the world meets them where they’re at, adapting to how their brain processes information, emotions, and daily life. With patience, structure, and respect, we can reduce stress and build on their strengths, helping them feel safe, capable, and understood.

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Creating calm, structured environments

We help set up home, school, and community spaces that are predictable, low-stress, and easier to navigate.

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Step-by-step skill-building

Complex tasks are broken down into manageable steps with visual aids and supports to promote independence.

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Helping with big emotions and self-regulation

We guide individuals in understanding feelings and using calming tools to manage frustration, anxiety, or overwhelm.

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Focusing on strengths and successes

We highlight what’s working well, celebrate progress, and nurture natural talents and interests.

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Building communication and understanding

We support clear, simple, and consistent ways to give instructions and help individuals express themselves confidently.

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Guiding families through systems and services

From NDIS to school planning and health supports, we help families access resources and advocate for what’s needed.

How we can help people with FASD?

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Whole Family Developmental Support →

  • Coaching for parents and carers to manage daily routines and transitions

  • Visual tools and structure to support learning and independence

  • Guidance for siblings and family members to understand FASD

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Functional Capacity & Needs Assessments →

  • Assessments to understand strengths and challenges for NDIS planning

  • Recommendations for school supports and therapy services

  • Collaborative goal setting for future independence

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Skill-Building and Adaptive Learning Programs →

  • Step-by-step teaching methods for memory and attention support

  • Life skills coaching for daily living and community engagement

  • Strategies to build confidence and problem-solving skills

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Positive Behaviour Support →

  • Behaviour plans that focus on reducing stress and overwhelm

  • Practical strategies for impulsivity, emotional regulation, and safety

  • Training for teachers and carers to respond calmly and consistently

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Psychology and Mental Health →

– Support for anxiety, overwhelm, and Autistic burnout
– Help to process emotions, identity, and life experiences
– Therapy that respects communication and sensory needs

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Regional Intensives →

  • In-home and community-based support for remote families

  • Hands-on training for carers, schools, and local support networks

  • Developing sustainable, long-term support plans

Say G’day today and we can work together to see what we can do to support you.

Hear it from real families

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“Before we understood what was really going on for J, every day felt like a struggle. Our support workers were doing their best, but nothing seemed to click. It often felt like we were all trying to push J into doing things, and the more we pushed, the more he shut down.

When Brooke and her team explained Autism & PDA to us, it was like someone finally turned the light on. We realised he wasn’t being difficult, he was doing everything he could to feel safe and in control.

With Brooke’s help, our whole approach changed. His support workers stopped trying to force things and started meeting him where he’s at by giving him time, space, and choices.

Now, J’s so much more relaxed. He actually wants to spend time with his workers because they see him for who he is. He laughs more, joins in on his own terms, and doesn’t feel like he has to mask or meet anyone else’s expectations.

It’s been incredible to watch him grow into himself, just by being accepted”
- J’s Mum

*Story and photo shared with permission. Not for reproduction.

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Real people. Real experience.
Here for you.

We’re not just professionals — we’re people who get it.

Our team is proudly autistic-led, trauma-informed, and shaped by lived experience. We’ve sat on both sides of the table — as clinicians, as family members, and many of us as neurodivergent individuals ourselves.

We understand that life isn’t always neat or easy, and behaviour support should never feel like a judgement or try to change who you are.

No matter what life looks like for you right now — we walk alongside you.