Autism 101

2 CEs

Course Overview

Many providers have no idea about the heightened frequency of autistic individuals presenting in their practices often, without a diagnosis well into adulthood. In this presentation, we will examine the foundations of understanding the different expressions of autism such that providers can be more adequately and proactively engaged in supporting clients that may present for support, regardless of the area of social work within which the request is being solicited. Using a social model of disability and a developmental protocol, we will begin in early childhood and move into adolescence and adulthood in understanding that autism is:

• intersectional
• life long
• non-discriminatory
• across all races, genders and sexual identities
• presenting in every field of human services

Learning Objectives

By the end of the workshop, participants will be able to:

1. Identify the vastness of the intersectional disparities facing the autism
2. Through anecdotal storytelling, research and the lived experience of the presenter who identifies as an autistic female researcher, they will be able to analyze the need for better understanding for human services
3. Identify evidence-based strategies and concepts to aid providers in communicating and succeeding with autistic individuals, whether presenting with or without a diagnosis
4. examine the intersectionality of trauma and autism as it applies to the medical versus social models of disability.

Tuition Rates

• $70 Regular
• $50 Alumni, FI, Adjunct
• $25 VET

*AUSSW Students free with promo code

Register Here

Faculty Bio

Dena L. Gassner is a PhD candidate at Adelphi University, Dena is an adjunct professor at Towson University and the 1999 winner of the Autism Society of America’s Cathy Pratt Professional of the Year Award. She is the co-chair of the International Society for Autism Research (INSAR) Autistic Researcher Committee and has published many book chapters and journal articles in her career. Testimonies to the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC), the Government Accountability Offices (GAO), the Department of Defense (DOD) and speaking at the United Nations in both Geneva and multiple times in New York have been highlights of her career. Since coming to the Arc Board of Directors, she has served on the Policy Committee for 6 years and as the Chair of the National Council of Self-Advocates for 4 years. Her contribution to the Arc’s policies included the inclusion of LGBTQAI intersectionality and maternal wellness for mothers with IDD. She was appointed to the IACC’s Mental Health Subcommittee and will join the IACC as an appointed member this fall. She identifies as a wife, mother, grandmother and seeks to live an authentic autistic life.

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Adelphi University School of Social Work is an approved provider for continuing education credits for the following:

• NYSED Social Workers
• NYSED LMHC
• NYSED LMFT
• CASAC Renewal
• APA Psychology, pending NYSED Psychology
• NYSED LCAT

Successful completion for the award of approved continuing education credits requires attendance at the entire training/workshop and submission of a completed evaluation form.

See full credentialing information and CEUs

Cancellation Policy

Unfortunately, we cannot provide refunds for cancellations made seven working days or fewer before the event for any reason—or for no-shows. We can provide credit towards a future workshop up to 24 hours before the event. After that, no credit will be issued.

Accessibility Statement

The Student Access Office ensures equal access to all of Adelphi University’s programs, services and facilities for students with documented needs. Through assistance, advocacy and reasonable accommodations, the office provides an accessible and supportive campus environment.

The Student Access Office provides cost-free assistance and services that are tailored to meet the needs of individuals based on their specific, appropriately documented needs, while preserving Adelphi’s academic integrity and high standards of academic expectations and performance.

If you are a student with a documented disability and wish to request accommodation services, please submit a Petition for Reasonable Accommodations form along with the required information as detailed in the Guidelines for Documentation.

Please be aware that all decisions regarding accommodations and equal access are made in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and prevailing University Policy.

For further information, please contact the Student Access Office at 516.877.3806 or sao@adelphi.edu.