19th Annual Thompson Center Autism Conference
The Thompson Center hosted the 19th Annual Thompson Center Autism Conference on September 12 and 13, following a parent conference on September 11 in St. Charles, Missouri.
The parent conference kicked off with a keynote presentation from Lora Hinkel, focusing on the importance of finding ways to connect goals and interventions, and ways to connect with your child and others with similar shared experiences. Breakout sessions included topics on supporting advocacy and building relationships with a medical team, building up independence and advocacy in autistic individuals, and putting the FUN in functional communication.
After a successful parent conference, the Ask the Experts panel took place that evening featuring a panel of speakers representing a variety of fields and backgrounds, including an autistic individual and a parent of a child with autism. This panel gave parents and professionals the opportunity to ask questions to autism experts.
The following morning, the autism conference began with a keynote presentation by Dr. Jamie Pearson, who discussed the importance of supporting black autistic children and their families through interdisciplinary partnerships. After the conclusion of the first day of the conference, the students, trainees, and new professionals showcased their research on autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders at the annual poster session.
Keynote speaker, Dr. Jamie Pearson, giving her presentation about the importance of supporting black autistic children and families through interdisciplinary partnerships.
From left to right: Dr. Darren Olsen, Dr. Sarah de Marchena, Dr. Kathleen Edmier, and Dr. Connie Brooks participating on a panel about navigating diverse challenges in autism support.
On the final day of the autism conference, Dr. Vanessa Bal gave a keynote presentation on the diagnosis of autism in adulthood. A favorite breakout session this year was Dr. Adithyan Rajaraman’s presentation on advocating for trauma-informed care and incorporating it into behavioral services for individuals who exhibit dangerous behaviors.
Keynote Speaker, Dr. Vanessa Bal, presenting on the diagnosis of autism in Adulthood.
Dr. Adithyan Rajaraman presenting about advocating for trauma-informed care and incorporating it into behavioral services for individuals who exhibit dangerous behaviors.
The conference aims to educate and provide support for professionals who work with individuals with autism spectrum disorders. Register for the 20th Annual Thompson Center Autism Conference in 2025 here.
A huge thank you to our title sponsor, AB Spectrum, for making this year’s event possible!