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.

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.

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.

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.

Music Therapist and Founder and CEO of Voices Together Yasmine White shares key elements of her proprietary Voices Together music therapy model, which has gained approval and funding by multiple North Carolina Public School Systems, the North Carolina Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, and the North Carolina State Department of Health and Human Services as an approved and evidence-based treatment program for learners across the autism spectrum.