In this continuing series created to specifically compare and contrast the various intervention methods for individuals on the autism spectrum, Theresa Wrangham, moderator and US Autism Association Advisory Board member, interviews Advisory Board members Dr. Stephen Shore and Rob Bernstein, and Floortime experts, Dr. Gil Tippy (also a US Autism Association Advisory Board member) and Bridget Henn. This session is sure to provide in-depth information and offer valuable insight about Floortime and its usefulness for individuals on the autism spectrum.

You may have heard of therapeutic dogs. Research has shown that animals can be helpful to children and adults on the autism spectrum. The benefits of using animals in therapy are explored with two established researchers in the field, Dr. Maggie O’Haire and Leanne Nieforth, both from Purdue University, as well as US Autism Association Advisory Board members Dr. Stephen Shore, Rob Bernstein, and Theresa Wrangham (moderator).

Do you know a non-vocal child on the autism spectrum? Our very own US Autism Association Advisory Board member and Non-Vocal Advocate Sameer Dahar and US Autism Association Advisory Board members Dr. Stephen Shore and Rob Bernstein are joined by Erika Anderson to discuss the RPM method.

In this session, Dr. Marlo Payne Thurman, President of the US Autism Association, Jeffrey Freed, author of the popular book Right-Brained Children in a Left-Brained World and autistic himself, and Dr. Richard Williams, autism expert, researcher, and parent of an adult daughter with autism discuss the complex topic of cognition and intellectual ability in autism.

Dr. Stephen Shore, an individual on the autism spectrum himself, provides useful insight and direction for those working with diagnosed individuals.

Dr. John Michael Uszler, a member of the US Autism Association Advisory Board, describes his life’s work as a medical doctor who has specialized in the use of SPECT Brain Imaging for its applications in helping individuals with neurocognitive differences.

Attorney Carol Weinman is a nationally recognized expert in autism spectrum disorders and criminal law. In this session, Ms. Weinman discusses the important topic of police encounters with individuals on the autism spectrum, as well as the importance of training and education for police, who may not realize they are dealing with a person who may not understand what they are even being asked to do.

Theodore Henderson, M.D., Ph.D., who is a member of U.S. Autism Association’s Advisory Board and a practicing psychiatrist specializing in neurobiology and psychopharmacology, presents information about the brain.

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.