CFP Michael Beloff shares his unique and personal expertise on the topic of accessing government benefits for individuals on the autism spectrum. Through his unique lens as both a parent of a diagnosed child and an expert in financial planning for the needs of those on the spectrum, Michael brings a wealth of information along with practical steps and timelines to consider when exploring SSI and SSDI for autistic individuals.

Dr. Philip C. DeMio's practice focuses on the medical testing and treatment for you and/or your loved one with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Dr. Marlo Payne Thurman, School Psychologist and President of the US Autism Association, discusses various learning styles and the range of learning opportunities for individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders that can be addressed within a project-based learning model.

In her signature frank and matter-of-fact style, Dr. Temple Grandin uses this session to discuss the need for all individuals with autism, including even younger children, to “get off the couch” and build something, try a new hobby, or take on a part-time job to gain new skills and move towards independence and self-sufficiency. In this session, Dr. Grandin highlights the need for parents to help their children build on social skills, establish good work habits, and ultimately gain their independence through work projects and the development of interests and skills.

Dr. Robin Brewer explains why it is crucial for students to be taught with the presumption that they can achieve. During the session she explains the important role classroom peers can have and discusses what the least restrictive environment means along with the current research on student outcomes in the classroom.

Vicki Clarke, Speech Language Pathologist and AAC Specialist, discusses communication, speech, and the tools we use to help individuals with Autism develop speech and language skills.

In this session, Robin Chalker will share her expertise as a special education lawyer and advocate on the topic of advocacy in school for individuals with autism who might otherwise slip through the cracks.

This session focuses on strategies to develop an individualized IEP and analyze the results. Suellen Inwood, director of a unique school that emphasizes authentic individualized education plans for all students, also explains the importance of understanding that a full team is needed to facilitate the development of an IEP that accurately provides an individualized education plan and program.

The primary purpose of this session with Dr. Patrick J. Rydell is to assist viewers in understanding the interrelationships among social-communication, learning styles, and independent thinking in children with autism spectrum disorders.

Joleena Louis brings her wealth of legal expertise to the topics of divorce, co-parenting, and reshaping the family after a divorce for families with a child on the autism spectrum.

As children grow up, the role of occupational therapy changes and presents new opportunities for facilitating successful transition to adulthood. Dr. Jeanne Eichler, Occupational therapist, music therapist and educator, discusses reasons to seek that occupational therapist and bring them back to the team.

Dr. Michael McManmon is the founder of the College Internship Program and on the Advisory Board of the US Autism Association. His expertise stems from his Doctorate in Special Education, his Master’s in Counseling, and his Master’s in Human Development. He is also an individual that has been diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome.