Within the scope of the “Strengthening Through Differences: An Inclusive University Project for Individuals with Autism and Their Families,” initiated in collaboration with Malatya Turgut Ozal University, Battalgazi Municipality, Provincial Directorate of National Education, Malatya Autism Mothers Association, and Malatya Autism Association, the Psychological Counseling and Guidance Application and Research Center (PDRM) of Malatya Turgut Ozal University aimed to contribute to the project, particularly through content and practices directed at families.

The project was designed to be implemented with a holistic approach focused on supporting the families of individuals with autism. Within the framework of themes such as self-compassion, gratitude, and post-traumatic growth, the program included theoretical trainings, group sharing sessions, and workshops aimed at enhancing families’ psychological resilience and strengthening their social support systems.

The first session of the project was held on July 28, 2025, at the Battalgazi Municipality Conference Hall, led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zeynep SAĞIR with the participation of Res. Asst. Hakan SARIYILDIZ. With this session, the foundations for an interactive and supportive process with families were established.

This comprehensive university project, which centers on the needs of families in the development of individuals with autism, represents a strong example of social awareness and solidarity through its multi-stakeholder structure. Throughout the project, the aim was to increase support for the psychological and social needs of families and to enhance their quality of life. In addition, it was intended to develop sustainable and broad-based support models based on the experiences and feedback obtained.