In the session, participants will: Be able to identify barriers to earlier identification of nuanced types of autism, particularly in females; Be able to name strategies for identifying nuanced autism earlier in life to improve quality of life, particularly for autistic females; Be able to apply knowledge of nuanced autism traits to clinical and educational settings to benefit autistic females and others with nuanced autism.

Presenter: Terisa P. Gabrielsen, PhD, NCSP, Associate Professor, School of Psychology, BYU

Autism and Specific Learning Disorder are considered neurodevelopmental disorders, and there is a growing concern that these conditions may be underdiagnosed. This presentation aims to provide an understanding of the diagnostic criteria for these disorders. It also addresses the high rates of Specific Learning Disorders that are experienced within the Autism Spectrum and discusses the overlap in sensory processing difficulties between these conditions. Additionally, the presentation will briefly touch on the topics of twice-exceptional students, the masking of symptoms, and the potential consequences of insufficient education.

Presenter: SuzAnna Waters, PhD, Clinical Psychologist, Utah Regional Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities (URLEND)

A Neurodiversity Affirming Approach abides by the belief that neurological differences (e.g., autism and ADHD) are explained by normal, natural variation in human genes. Neurodiversity prompts us to consider how not every brain works the same and that each individual takes in experiences or benefits from recommendations differently. In this presentation, we will gain a better understanding of neurodiversity, the social model of disability, and the importance of affirming language. We will discuss ways to tailor interventions and recommendations to be more values-based, collaborative, and personalized for folks across the lifespan. In addition, we will consider how to best support caregivers of children newly diagnosed with autism and how to help families prioritize when feeling overwhelmed by recommendations and/or service options. 

Presenter: Sarah Boland, Advanced Graduate Student in Psychology, Utah Regional Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities (URLEND)

In this session participants will gain an understanding of disparities in assessment and intervention, be able to identify how culture may impact Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) presentation, and recognize areas where intervention can be adapted for cross-cultural considerations..

Presenter: Shelby Allen, MS, Clinical Psychology Doctoral Student, Washington State University / Utah Regional Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities (URLEND)

Session information to be announced.

Presenter: Daphne Hartzheim, Speech Language Pathologist, Utah Regional Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities (URLEND)

Session information to be announced.

Presenter: Theresa Andrzejewski, Advanced Graduate Student in Psychology, Utah Regional Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities (URLEND)

Session information to be announced.

Presenter: Shannon Stuebs, Advanced Graduate Student in Psychology, Utah Regional Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities (URLEND)

Session information to be announced.

Presenter: SuzAnna Waters, PhD, SE, Clinical Psychologist, Utah Regional Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities (URLEND)