2024 Virtual Conference Sessions

The 2024 Virtual Conference will feature 5 hours of live-panel discussions (more information coming soon!) as well as the pre-recorded sessions and panels below. Sessions subject to change. Click on a title to learn more.

Live Panels

5 hours of LIVE panel discussions on Saturday April 20th!
Check back for more details!  

Click here for more information about CEUs

On-Demand Sessions

The following pre-recorded sessions will be available to watch anytime during the 3-day conference, from Friday April 19 8:00 am ET until Sunday 8:00 pm ET

Conference Sessions and Panels

Keynote: Great Minds Are Not All the Same- Temple Grandin, Ph.D.

Speaker: Temple Grandin, Ph.D.

The training will give the attendees a better understanding of autism. They will learn how people with autism think. They will also gain a better understanding of problems with both sensory over sensitivity that many people on the spectrum experience. The presentation will be based on both Dr. Grandin’s experiences with autism and scientific research.

Keynote: Listening to Autistic Voices: Participatory Research in Prioritizing Mental Health- Stephen Shore, Ed.D.

Speaker: Stephen Shore, Ed.D.

In this session, Dr. Stephen Shore will discuss the value of including those on the autism spectrum in participatory research. He will share the reasons for inclusion and the benefits to both autistic and non-autistic groups.

Keynote: Autism Intel: What Your Child/Adult Wishes You Knew About Their Brain...
Using the 3 Autism Neuro-States to Unblock Learning, Communication, and Connection- Raun K. Kaufman

Speaker: Raun K. Kaufman

What if there were one key aspect of the autistic brain that we are all overlooking? There is. In this paradigm-shifting lecture, Raun K. Kaufman takes us on a deep dive into the three neuro-states of autism so that we can approach our loved ones in a way that is matched (instead of mismatched) to their current neuro-state, enabling connection rather than overload, ease rather than anxiety, blossoming rather than meltdowns.

From Learning to Earning: Transitioning into the Workforce with Autism- Michael McManmon, Ed.D. & Dan McManmon

Speakers: Michael McManmon, Ed.D. and Dan McManmon

This presentation is designed to empower adolescents and young adults on the autism spectrum and those who work with them as they navigate the complexities of preparing for and entering the workforce. This session introduces the concept of the Career Continuum, guiding participants through stages from community service to employment, emphasizing the development of crucial soft skills and real-world experience. Participants will learn about the eight key skills sought by employers—communication, willingness to learn, self-management, planning and organizing, initiative and leadership, problem-solving and critical thinking, teamwork, and technology proficiency. Through a blend of insightful stories and practical tools and strategies, participants will gain valuable knowledge of the tools needed to prepare for the world of work.

Panel: Tips and Strategies for the Classroom

Panelists: Megan Locke, Au.D., CCC/A, Yasmine White, Robin Brewer, Ed.D., Quatiba Davis, M.Ed., BCBA

Moderator: Bren Payne

Description: Featuring the most seasoned educators of the US Autism Association, this session will provide an in-depth discussion covering some of the best real-world tips and strategies for use in the classroom. A not-to-be-missed session for anyone struggling to figure out how to reach and teach a student on the autism spectrum, this session will provide useful take-away information that can be easily implemented into the classroom on Monday.

Panel: Going the Distance: US Autism Parents of ASD Adults

Panelists: Lawrence P. Kaplan, Ph.D., Phillip DeMio, M.D., Michael Beloff, CFP®, ChSNC®, Manisha Lad, Dick Williams, Ph.D.

Moderator: Theresa Wrangham

Description: In a session featuring the founder of the US Autism Association, along with the Association’s Medical Director Emeritus, primary conference moderator, and other key speakers of the US Autism Association, this panel will share the wisdom that comes only from raising a child on the autism spectrum into adulthood.

CAPD, Autism, or Both?- Megan Locke, Au.D., CCC/A

Speaker: Megan Locke, Au.D., CCC/A

In this session Megan Locke will discuss her research on the topic of CAPD in autism. She will then discuss the findings of her research and share its implications for those on the autism spectrum.

Panel: Approaches to Autism

Panelists: Stephen Shore, Ed.D., Ethan Miller, Marcia Eckerd, Ph.D., Elaine Hall

Moderator: Robert J. Bernstein, MA

Description:  In a continuation of US Autism Association’s popular online series Approaches to Autism, Dr. Stephen Shore and Rob Bernstein explore a range of therapeutic methods and interventions with friends and seasoned professionals to give audience members a deeper understanding about how best to work with and support those who are on the autism spectrum.  With therapy methods that include the Miller Method, the Miracle Project, the Bernstein Cognitive Method, and the assessment and intervention methods of Dr. Marcia Eckerd, this panel will provide a wealth of insight into how best to identify and treat the complex needs of individuals across the autism spectrum. 

Panel: Covering the Field

Panelists: Phillip DeMio, M.D., Carol Weinman, Esq., C.A.S., Michael Beloff, CFP®, ChSNC®, Wenn Lawson, Ph.D.

Moderator: Theresa Wrangham

Description:  With an expert in each of the fields of medical, legal, financial, educational, and social emotional considerations, this session will provide in-depth insight into the full range of topics that should be included when planning for the complex needs of individuals across the autism spectrum along with recommendations to assist in the prioritization of those needs.    

Why Autistic Women Aren’t Diagnosed, and How to Do a Neurodiversity-Affirming Diagnosis- Marcia Eckerd, Ph.D.

Speaker: Marcia Eckerd, Ph.D.

This session will cover why women are missed when they can have as many autistic traits as men, and why autistic women experience so much distress. We’ll cover how to do a neurodiversity affirming diagnosis still using DSM-V-TR and whether an official diagnosis is necessary.

Government Benefits for Special Needs Families- Michael Beloff, CFP®, ChSNC®

Speaker: Michael Beloff, CFP®, ChSNC®

In this session, Michael Beloff provides in-depth and detailed information about available government benefits and how these can be accessed for families with special needs children and adults.

Overcoming a Hopeless Complex- Autism & Mental Health- Ron Sandison

Speaker: Ron Sandison

80% of people with autism experience depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues. Depression and isolation can lead to a hopeless complex. A hopeless complex hinders growth and independence, creates fear of the future, and can cause regression of previous learned skills. Professionals, individuals with autism, and parents will learn practical ways to create a hope complex by developing a healthy self-efficiency mindset. Sandison shares his own journey with autism and depression and how he overcame a hopeless complex by developing self-determination. A hope complex empowered Ron to have a career in the mental health field, a family, and a national platform in the autism community.

Panel: Autism and the Arts

Panelists: Stephen Shore, Ed.D., Yasmine White, Michael McManmon, Ed.D., Elaine Hall

Moderator: Ron Zimmerman

Description: In this session, panelists will highlight the importance of including the arts in all areas of life for those on the autism spectrum.  With a special focus on what is known about brain development for those with autism, this panel will highlight the various art forms in use therapeutically in the treatment of autism and will discuss why the arts are effective in addressing the needs of those on the autism spectrum.

Panel: Medical, Psychiatric, and Nutritional Interventions

Panelists: Theodore Henderson, M.D., Ph.D., Phillip DeMio, M.D., BG Mancini AP, FMP, MHS

Moderator: Theresa Wrangham

Description:  Within an in-depth medical panel featuring the US Autism Association’s medical doctors and nutritional consultants, this session covers some of the primary biomedical, mental health, and physical needs that are commonly overlooked when treating those who are on the autism spectrum.  With in-depth information provided by professionals who have dedicated their careers to treating those who are on the autism spectrum, this session will provide valuable insight into the complex wellness challenges affecting those across the spectrum.

Comorbidities in Autism- Phillip C. DeMio, M.D.

Speaker: Phillip C. DeMio, M.D.

Intense discussion has continued over generations as to whether Autism is a purely psychiatric disorder vs. whether it has a nonpsychiatric medical basis. In “Cormorbidities in Autism”, Dr. DeMio discusses evidence on both sides of the argument in order to offer participants information on this ongoing subject.

The Miller Method- Ethan Miller & Stephen Shore, Ed.D.

Speakers: Ethan Miller, Stephen Shore, Ed.D.

Ethan Miller, son of the creators of The Miller Method, and Dr. Stephen Shore provide insights into how The Miller Method can be adapted to benefit adults on the autism spectrum.

Autism and the Power of Music
Music: The Non-Directive Approach and Paths to Communication- Yasmine White

Speaker: Yasmine White

Music naturally supports social communication. In this presentation you will learn about an approach that uses music and counseling tools in a non-directive way that leads to self-efficacy and independence.

Panel: Autism and Mental Health

Panelists: Wenn Lawson, Ph.D., Marcia Eckerd, Ph.D., Theodore Henderson, M.D., Ph.D., BG Mancini, AP, FMP, MHS

Moderator: Marlo Payne Thurman, Ph.D.

Description:  In a session featuring several of the US Autism Association’s mental health experts, this panel will dive deeply into the topic of mental health across the autism spectrum to shed new light on some of the primary mental health challenges and treatments for those on the autism spectrum. With themes that may include topics such as depression, anxiety, gender dysphoria, and even suicidal ideation, this session is a must for anyone struggling to support, treat, or educate those who are on the autism spectrum, and who are also suffering from significant challenges with mental health.

Panel: Transition Planning

Panelists: Dan McManmon, Alex Morris-Wood, Amy Radochonski, and Dick Williams, Ph.D.

Moderator. Michael Beloff, CFP®, ChSNC®

Description:  This panel features the US Autism Association’s transition specialists in a topic intended to help those supporting an individual on the autism spectrum as they prepare to leave home and either attend college or join the workforce.  With expert advice from several different college support and independent living programs, this session will give audience participants much to consider when going through the planning stages for autistic teens and young adults.

The Bernstein Cognitive Method for Autism- Robert J. Bernstein

Speaker Robert J. Bernstein, MA

“Part of the beauty of Bernstein Cognitive Method for Autism is its simplicity: it evaluates and works with children in their everyday environments.” “Departing from the traditional behavioral approach to working with children with autism, Bernstein’s method seeks to understand and modify thinking processes...” Stephen Shore

Illuminating Pathways to a Healthy Brain- Theodore Henderson, M.D., Ph.D.

Speaker: Theodore Henderson, M.D., Ph.D.

In this session Dr. Theodore Henderson will discuss the problem with current treatments for Traumatic brain injury/concussion/CTE, Parkinson’s disease, Depression, Autism, PTSD, Post-COVID Fatigue Syndrome, Alzheimer’s disease, and ADHD and will propose an alternative, non-invasive, non-pharmacological treatment to improve brain function.

Autism in the Media- Elaine Hall

Speaker: Elaine Hall

In this multimedia presentation, Elaine Hall, one of Hollywood's first Access Coordinators and Autism Consultants for film, TV and theater will share her work on shows such as Jason Katim's Parenthood, HBO's Autism: The Musical, Netflix’s Atypical, Love on the Spectrum, Amazon's As We See It, and others. She will share her casting secrets and consulting ideas as she discusses what it takes to work as a professional actor in the Entertainment Industry. Elaine will emphasize how being your true self is your best way into the field. Elaine will also share her advocacy work with authentic representation and storytelling in Hollywood and how neurodivergent individuals can use their talents for careers in the media.

Panel: Growing Up with Autism

Panelists: Wenn Lawson. Ph.D., Michael McManmon, Ed.D., Stephen Shore, Ed.D., Akhil Lad

Moderator: Marlo Payne Thurman, Ph.D.

Description:  In a panel featuring diagnosed individuals and self-advocates within the US Autism’s Advisory Board and speakers’ group, this session will explore what those who are on the autism spectrum would most like people who are not “autistic” to know about being “autistic” and growing up on the autism spectrum.

Panel: Legal and Financial Considerations for Individuals Across the Autism Spectrum

Panelists: Carol Weinman, Esq., C.A.S., Michael Beloff, CFP®, ChSNC®

Moderator. Theresa Wrangham

Description:  This panel will cover three different-but-related topics that pertain to the range of legal, financial, and family court matters that can arise in the support of individuals across the autism spectrum. With two attorneys and a seasoned financial planner, as well as two panelists who have raised autistic children, this panel will provide rich and detailed insight into how best to plan for and address problems and concerns in these areas. 

Voices Across the Spectrum Talk Show: With Hosts Stephen Shore and Rob Bernstein

Guests: Akhil Lad, Ron Sandison, Raun K. Kaufman, Michael McManmon, Ed.D. ,Wenn Lawson, Ph.D.

In this Talk-Show style session, Dr. Stephen Shore and his dear friend Rob Bernstein will host several different US Autism Association guests who are themselves on the autism spectrum. In line with the successful style of unscripted, individual interviews, and within the witty banter and communication style we’ve grown accustomed to in the US Autism Association’s online library sessions, Rob and Stephen will both entertain and enlighten with their Voices Across the Spectrum talk show.

How Autism & Sexuality → Crime & Arrest- Carol Weinman, Esq., C.A.S

Speaker: Carol Weinman, Esq., C.A.S.

This session explores how and why so many curious adolescent and adult autistics wind up in police custody and analyzes actual legal cases, including child pornography. It examines the internet- and real-life behavior of these individuals and provides a tell-tale view into their minds. It also takes a peek at other crimes committed and presents an overview of law, the criminal justice system and its perspective on autism and crime.

Autism & Aging: What Does This Look Like for Intersectionality with Cognitive Style, Interoception & Object Permanence- Wenn Lawson, Ph.D.

Speaker: Wenn Lawson, Ph.D.

Autistic individuals tend to be ‘monotropic’ in their cognitive style. Being ‘mono’ will impact how we learn and what this means for connections with our eighth sense, (interoception) and Object Permanence (OP- knowing things, people, seasons, places, time and so on, have a life of their own, even when out of sight). The address will define, explain and give examples so attendees can form an understanding of the older autistic person they may relate to.

Good Autism Education is Just Good Education- Gil Tippy, Psy.D.

Speaker: Gil Tippy, Psy.D.

In this session, Dr. Gil Tippy describes how early learning education through the use of basic Floortime concepts translates into building useful skills to help learners of all ages solve problems. Dr. Tippy discusses the need for teachers to find and build on students’ strengths and communication skills within a Floortime learning model to construct the “little behavioral pieces” necessary for basic skills to grow into abstract thinking and learning. With the belief that a developmental approach to learning is the foundation to a good school, Dr. Tippy emphasizes that good education for children on the autism spectrum is simply good education for all children.

Supporting Individuals Using DIRFloortime- Katie Shepherd, MSEd, CCC-SLP, DIR-Expert

Speaker: Katie Shepherd, MSEd, CCC-SLP, DIR-Expert

Floortime expert Katie Shepherd of the International Council on Development and Learning (ICDL) will provide an introduction to this respectful, joyful, and evidence-based approach to helping individuals on the autism spectrum and others with neurodevelopmental differences.

Panel: Effective Multi-Disciplinary Teams

Panelists: Robin Brewer, Ed.D., Tracie Kelly, Yasmine White, Joella Simmons

Moderator: Bren Payne

Description:  This session will provide in-depth, detailed information to help parents, educators, and treatment providers in the creation and implementation of effective, multi-disciplinary teams to meet the full range of needs then identify accommodations, supports, and services for individuals across the autism spectrum.

Right Brained Children in a Left Brained World- Jeffrey Freed, M.A.T. & Richard O. Williams, Ph.D.

Speaker Jeffrey Freed, M.A.T., Richard O. Williams, Ph.D.

In this enlightening session, Jeffrey Freed will delve deeply into the unique learning profiles of neurodiverse individuals, with a keen focus on those with autism. Drawing from extensive research, personal experiences, and years of helping neurodiverse minds thrive, Jeffrey will elucidate the innate visual and spatial strengths these individuals possess.

Recognizing the challenges educators and caregivers face in harnessing these strengths for effective teaching, he will introduce groundbreaking methods tailored specifically for teaching reading and spelling. Beyond these academic skills, Jeffrey will also share invaluable insights into bridging the visual-auditory divide, demonstrating techniques that cater to visual learners in auditory environments.

This presentation promises to equip attendees with actionable strategies, fostering greater inclusivity and success in both traditional and specialized educational settings.

The Critical Connection Between the Body, Brain, and Microtraumas in Autism- BG Mancini, AP, FMP, MHS

Speaker: BG Mancini, AP, FMP, MHS

This session will explore what is known through research about the way the Gut, Brain, and Nervous System are all working together at all times, nourishing and informing each other in real time. Current research shows the similarities in gut microbiomes and diagnosis such as Autism. Factors that contribute to a dysregulated gut include stress and trauma, we will look at a list of internal and external microtraumas that act as continuous stressors to the Autonomic Nervous System and make connection and interaction more challenging Finally, we'll discuss ways to nurture not only the Autistic nervous system, but also the collective Family Nervous System through the vagus nerve system.

Nothing About us Without Us: Person Centered Planning for All Ages- Robin Brewer, Ed.D.

Speaker Robin Brewer, Ed.D.

This session will focus on understanding what Person-Centered Planning is and knowing the 7 steps required to complete a comprehensive plan. Using the Charting the LifeCourse process, we will review and complete some of the free tools available. You will leave this session with access to all the tools and videos.

Fierce Love and Art- Ron Zimmerman

Speaker: Ron Zimmerman, with Theresa Wrangham

In a motivational and heartwarming session presented by film maker Ron Zimmerman, Ron will share the experience and insights gained from working with the families involved in the film Fierce Love and Art.

Wellness in Autism: Complex Relationships in Gut/Brain Health- BG Mancini, AP, FMP, MHS

Speaker: BG Mancini, AP, FMP, MHS

In this session, Dr. BG Mancini and US Autism President Dr. Marlo Payne Thurman share their combined expertise on the topic of wellness in autism. Beginning with heightened sensory responding and carrying through to cover interoception and reactivity within Porges' polyvagal theory, this session explains how disruption along the gut-brain continuum affects physical, social, behavioral, and even cognitive wellness, with recommendations for treatment.

Keep Trying Because Life is a Lot Like Home Alone and Zelda- Andrew Arboe

Speaker: Andrew Arboe

Self-advocate, speaker, and autism teaching assistant Andrew Arboe discusses his personal journey through loss of a job and towards how he recreated himself to find success in something new. With valuable insights for all young adults, Andrew reminds us that we have to build on our strengths and keep going, even when things don't work out the way we want them to.

A Legal Toolkit for Supporting Children with ASD Through Divorce- Joleena Louis, Esq.

Speaker: Joleena Louis, Esq.

This session will equip parents, legal professionals, educators, and support networks with a comprehensive legal toolkit for navigating divorce with a focus on the well-being of children with ASD.

A Broader Lens for Understanding Neurodiversity: Autism and Traumatic Brain Injury Correlations, Insights, and Outcomes- Amir Arami

Speaker: Amir Arami

In this session Amir Arami, founder of Verbal Autism, shares how his personal journey through a traumatic brain injury led to the creation of a revolutionary online app to facilitate individualized communication for individuals who are non speaking and on the autism spectrum. Within a discussion about correlations between autism and TBI, Amir and US Autism President Dr. Marlo Payne Thurman (who is also a TBI survivor) this session takes a deep dive into some of the complex relationships between autism and TBI to provide new insights on topics surrounding wellness and sustainability for individuals across the autism spectrum and for all who struggle with their extremes in neurodiversity.

Awareness, Acceptance, and Inclusion: An Interview with the Founder of Exceptional Needs Today Magazine- Amy KD Tobik

Speaker: Amy KD Tobik

In this session, the founder of Exceptional Needs Today Magazine, Amy Tobik shares her story and highlights her mission to bring awareness, acceptance, and inclusion through the distribution of the Exceptional Needs Today Magazine. With topics ranging from civic responsibility, integrity in journalism, and the personal stories of those living with exceptionalities, Amy expands our understanding of how we all benefit when we strive to make the world better for those with exceptional needs.  

Workplace Accessibility as You Have Never Thought About it Before- Jeanne Eichler, Ed.D., MOT, OTR/L, MT

Speaker: Jeanne Eichler, Ed.D., MOT, OTR/L, MT

What do you think about when you ponder accessibility? We spend 1/3 or more of our adult lives doing paid work. In this interview, Occupational Therapist Jeanne Eichler talks about aspects of accessibility that are often not considered in workplace environments. She discusses the importance of purposeful interviewing, aspects of work practices and work environment that can make or break a person's success in the workplace, and responsibility on the parts of the employer, colleagues, and individual workers to foster inclusiveness and productivity so that everyone wins. 

5 Steps to Setting Your Autistic Adult Up for Success- Patty Laushman

Speaker: Patty Laushman

Patty Laushman, director and head coach at Thrive Autism Coaching, shares advice on supporting and raising autistic teens and young adults. She discusses how to communicate in engaging ways, support in ways that can deepen parent/child relationships, and set boundaries that support your own quality of life. The goal of Patty's insights in this session are to equip parents with understanding and to help autistic teens and young adults move forward toward a meaningful, productive life.