Live webinar for clinicians: Surprise! Your client may be Autistic. (3 CEs)

Over the past few decades, the prevalence of Autism has risen from 1 in 150 to 1 in 36, but recent research suggests that there are still significant numbers of undiagnosed Autistics, and that accurate diagnosis can be life changing for these individuals. However, many clinicians continue to feel ill-equipped to recognize Autism and/or to rely on an outdated understanding of it, particularly but not exclusively their female clients.

In this workshop, Dr. Henderson will describe the diagnostic criteria for Autism and the many ways they can present, particularly in bright individuals with less obvious Autistic traits. Sondra Wolff, LCSW will review traits that may cause Autistic people to be more vulnerable to emotional dysregulation and post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Using a neuro-affirmative lens and recordings of therapy sessions, we will discuss how the experience of Autism and trauma are closely intertwined and the application of therapeutic approaches to promote well-being for this population.

CEs:  Psychologists and social workers can earn 3 CEs for full participation. This workshop is approved for CEs by The Stixrud Group (TSG). TSG is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. The Stixrud Group maintains responsibility for this program and its content. Social work CEs are approved in 34 states. For a list of those states, click here and scroll down to the map.

Intended audience: All levels of clinicians, from beginner to advanced.

Learning objectives: 

1. Describe core characteristics of individuals with a less obvious presentation of Autism.
2. Identify ways that Autistic females may present differently from autistic males.
3. Identify six vulnerabilities contributing to poor mental health outcomes for Autistic people.
4. Understand the bidirectional nature of Autism & trauma that contributes to persistent emotional dysregulation.
5. Learn five Autism informed clinical treatment approaches.

Instructor bios: 

Donna Henderson, Psy.D. has been a clinical neuropsychologist for over 30 years. She is passionate about identifying and supporting autistic individuals, particularly those who camouflage, and she is co-author (with Drs. Sarah Wayland and Jamell White) of two books: Is This Autism? A guide for clinicians and everyone else and Is This Autism? A companion guide for diagnosing. Dr. Henderson’s professional home is The Stixrud Group in Silver Spring, Maryland, where she provides neuropsychological evaluations for children, adolescents, and adults who would like to understand themselves better. She is a sought-after lecturer and also enjoys providing neurodiversity-affirmative training and case consultation for other healthcare professionals.

Sondra Wolff, LCSW has been a practicing psychotherapist for 30 years with a special interest in Autism. She has worked in multiple settings with a diverse range of clients including the Juvenile Justice System, public and private schools, and as a solo practitioner. She has a strong commitment to supporting neurodivergent people and is dedicated to offering support groups that provide safe and affirming spaces for Autistic exploration and belonging. She practices in Virginia, Maryland, and D.C.