Participants will be informed of the neurodevelopmental characteristics of ASD while covering executive functioning, context blindness, theory of mind, central coherence, joint attention, and one-channel processing (montropism). Explore sensory integration with self-regulation, independent work systems, visual strategies to foster independence, social stories, and positive behavior supports. Participants will identify and respond appropriately to various levels of crisis behaviors while learning to manage their emotional responses to distress behavior as maximizing the safety of self and others is key.
Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to:
- Understand autism and its impact on development.
- Understand the needs, characteristics, and strengths of individuals with autism and apply them to intervention strategies when working with clients.
- Interpret distress behaviors and address the cause of the behavior to de-escalate the situation.
- Use communication skills to be supportive and strengthen interventions to de-escalate potential conflict situations.
Syllabus:
Objective #1: Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
- Definition and developmental impact of ASD
- Key symptoms: communication difficulties, social challenges, repetitive behaviors
- Early diagnosis and treatment possibilities
- Shifting from puzzle piece to infinity symbol to represent neurodiversity
Objective #2: Diagnostic Criteria and Characteristics
- DSM-V-TR social communication and interaction deficits
- Repetitive behaviors, insistence on sameness, fixated interests, sensory sensitivities
- Coexisting conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, and mood disorders
- Regression in social, language, or play skills
Objective #3: Causes, Prevalence, and Impact
- Potential contributing factors: genetic, neurological, environmental
- Prevalence statistics across demographics
- Economic and societal costs of ASD
- Importance of early intervention to reduce long-term costs
Objective #4: Sensory Processing and Behavior
- Hypersensitivity and hyposensitivity to sensory input
- How sensory overload impacts daily activities
- Understanding behaviors like hand-flapping, toe-walking, and lining objects
- Recognizing sensory sensitivities to support individuals effectively
Objective #5: Strengths and Learning Styles
- Common strengths: logical thinking, memory, attention to detail, honesty
- Different learning styles: rote learners, gestalt learners, visual learners, hands-on learners
- Supporting learning through visuals, routines, and structure
Objective #6: Communication Styles and Development
- Early communication signs and levels: early, requestor, shared, self-isolation
- Alternative communication methods: gestures, facial expressions, joint attention
- Encouraging interaction through observation, imitation, and engagement
- Recognizing that all behavior is a form of communication
Objective #7: Support Strategies for Children with ASD
- Establishing and maintaining structured routines
- Using reward systems and visual schedules
- Planning for sensory differences and creating supportive environments
- Leveraging online learning tools and social stories
Objective #8: Real-Life Examples and Role Models
- Famous individuals with ASD: Anthony Hopkins, Daryl Hannah, Dan Aykroyd, Susan Boyle, Elon Musk, Greta Thunberg, Albert Einstein, Temple Grandin
- How strengths and differences have contributed to achievements
- Reframing ASD traits as superpowers rather than limitations
Objective #9: Enhancing Social Interactions and Managing Sensory Overload
- Strategies for improving social skills and peer interactions
- Identifying triggers for meltdowns and preventing sensory overload
- Coaching appropriate responses to emotions and social cues
- Emphasizing unconditional acceptance and focusing on abilities
Final Insights: Building a Strengths-Based Perspective
- Recognizing ASD as a different ability, not a disability
- Supporting self-confidence, independence, and resilience
- Advocating for an inclusive approach to education, therapy, and daily life
- Celebrating the unique talents and contributions of individuals with autism
Social workers completing this course receive 3 Clinical asynchronous continuing education credits.
For other board approvals, this course qualifies for 3 Clinical continuing education training.
Instructor: Tonya M. Logan, LICSW, LCSW-C
Recording Date: 3/02/2024
CEUS On-Demand, LLC, provider #2274, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: 08/7/2026 - 08/6/2027. Social workers completing this course receive 3hrs Clinical continuing education credits.
CEUs On-Demand, LLC has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7091. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. CEUs On-Demand, LLC is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.
System Requirements: Firefox, Chrome, Brave, Safari, Edge on any modern operating system (Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, iOS). A desktop browser is recommended. We do not provide support resources for issues encountered using a mobile device.
Request for Special Accommodations: Learners can request special accommodations by contacting the administrative team at admin@ceus-ondemand.com