We know that much of the distress associated with autism comes from myths, late or incorrect diagnoses, misplaced expectations and lack of awareness, to name a few common causes shared by clients and those in the field providing services.  Until quite recently, autism continued to be defined by presentation and neurotypical expectations of social norms regarding behavior and interaction as opposed to inside "lived" experience.  This webinar is intended to demystify some of this experience particularly for those families or individuals experiencing a recent diagnosis.  Specifically, we will discuss treatment options and resources and ways to center autistic voices.

We encourage autistic individuals, advocates, allies and the loved ones who support them to allow autistic individuals to drop their masks as part of improving their quality of life.  This might mean complex grieving for family members and a mind-shift for providers.  This can be daunting in a world that is still in the process of this paradigm shift.  Indeed, many IEPs and goals of coaches and providers still center on independence.  This tends to foster isolation and "otherness."  Instead, we emphasize interdependence as autistic individuals reveal what they have to offer their communities and these very communities learn to accommodate and be more inclusive.  After all, we each reflect the diversity of human experience and ability.   This paradigm shift is not easy, particularly for autistics living in a world bent on changing or fixing autism.  

That's why we are offering this free webinar as extra support through some of the complex relationships around the autistic experience as well as the emotional journey that may start with denial and confusion as well as overwhelm, guilt or grief.  

Join Meira Greenfeld, J.D, LCSW, ASDCS, a trauma therapist and certified autism clinical specialist and learn therapeutically based strategies and techniques to help understand signs and symptoms of autism and strengthen family functioning. 

The webinar will include resources and invitation to participate in live Q & A.

Included:

• History of autism and its impact on current interaction between providers and caregivers.
• Family conflict
• Siblings
• Autistic burnout
• Understanding autistic communication
• Treatment options

Don't let this opportunity pass you by.  Capacity is limited.