Thompson Center for Autism & Neurodevelopment

Strategies for Teaching Emergent Communication Webinar
2024-02-27 15:30 - 16:30 (America/Chicago)
Presented by: Michelle Dampf, M.A., CCC-SLP

Audience: Speech Language Pathologists, Early Intervention Professionals

Session Description:

This session will provide strategies for increasing communication and engagement for children with emergent language skills using evidenced based intervention for improving social-communication, play, and adaptive skills.

Next Steps ASD Workshop
2024-03-06 10:00 - 12:00, 2024-04-03 10:00 - 12:00, 2024-05-01 10:00 - 12:00, 2024-06-05 10:00 - 12:00, 2024-07-10 10:00 - 12:00 | Thompson Center Research and Training Facility, 200 N. Keene St., Columbia, MO, 65201
A new diagnosis of autism can be overwhelming and we are here to help. This free workshop is for parents, grandparents, and caregivers of children who have recently received a diagnosis of autism at the Thompson Center.
Key Topics:

Detailed information about autism
Common co-occurring medication conditions associated with autism
Recognizing strengths and behavior tips & tricks
Schools (your rights and the school process)
Connecting with agencies and support

One-On-One Support:
After the workshop, TC staff are available to answer more specific questions you might have regarding your child
In order for all attendees to get the most out of this training, we politely ask that only adults attend. Pizza will be provided.
For questions, please contact Louis Nevins at (573) 884-1619

Instructional Strategies Webinar
2024-03-07 15:30 - 16:30
Presented by: Jennifer DeLaporte, M.S.T., BCBA, LBA

Audience: Educators, Paraprofessionals

Session Description:

This session will identify effective instructional strategies to address independence and promote expected behavior for students with autism. This session will discuss common barriers to independence and how to address these including the use of antecedent strategies and environmental modification. Additional resources will be provided to participants.

Neurodiversity Series Part #4: Communication Webinar
2024-03-08 12:00 - 13:00
Presented by: Jennifer Sykes, Ph.D.

Audience: community

Session Description:

This session will describe the impact of neurodiversity on communication skills in children.

Transition Series Part #3: Supporting College Students Webinar
2024-03-18 14:00 - 15:00
Presented by: Jaclyn Benigno, M.Ed.

Audience: Vocational Rehabilitation professionals, Other adult care providers (residential staff, job coaches, day programs)

Session Description:

This session will identify three barriers in the college setting for students with ASD as well as three types of accommodations students can request. References and resources for teaching problem solving and goal setting will also be discussed.

ASD & Interventions Webinar
2024-04-05 12:00 - 13:00
Presented by: Jennifer Sykes, Ph.D.

Audience: Psychologist, Social Workers, Counselors, Other professionals working with individuals with autism

Session Description:

This session will define the core characteristics of an Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnosis in adolescents and young adults and identify subtle symptoms of autism that are often missed or mis-categorized. It will also cover “gold standard” evaluation components and why are they needed. This session qualifies for APA CEs.

Self-Advocate Series Part #1: Preparing for Employment Webinar
2024-04-09 17:00 - 18:00
Click here to register today!
Presented by: Jaclyn Benigno, M.Ed.

Audience: Individuals with autism

Session Description:

This session will identify strategies for creating a professional resume, preparing for interviews, searching for employment, etc.

Advocacy & Self-Advocacy with Hayley and Matthew Leach Webinar
2024-04-10 17:30 - 18:30
Click here to register now!
This session will highlight the importance of self-advocacy skills for autistic individuals in academic and professional settings. Haley and Matthew will also discuss how family members, especially siblings, can play a role in advocating for their loved ones.
Miss Missouri 2023, Hayley Leach, is a second year law student at Washington University in St. Louis. Upon graduation, she plans on practicing education law with a specialty in disability issues and advocacy. Hayley is an autism awareness advocate, an internationally published author, and a former public school teacher. During her year of service, Hayley has partnered with organizations such as Best Buddies International and Autism Speaks. Since competing in the Miss America Organization, Hayley has accumulated over $31,000 in scholarships which have been used to further her education.
Matthew Leach currently resides in Lexington, Kentucky where he is a senior at the University of Kentucky. He majors in Biology and plans to further his education by going to graduate school and getting a master’s degree in Forensic Science. His favorite things to do are reading, going to the movies, and spending time with his French Bulldog, Chloe. He has co-authored three books with his sister, Hayley, which are called “Frankie and Finn,” “Frankie and Finn Go to School,” and “See the Able, Not the Label.” Matthew also shares his personal journey with autism through a podcast called “Puzzle in Progress” that is available on Apple and Spotify Podcasts.

Autism Ride Dice Run Fundraiser - Sponsored by Boonville Knights of Columbus
2024-04-13 09:00 - 17:00 | Knights of Columbus Hall, 1515 Radio Hill Rd., Boonville, MO, 65233, United States
Autism Ride Dice Run
Sponsored by Knights of Columbus Council 1061 Boonville
Proceeds benefit the Thompson Center for Autism & Neurodevelopment’s social and community skills programs
Registration begins at 9:00 a.m.
First riders out at 10:00 a.m. | Last riders out by noon | Last riders in by 5:00 p.m.
$10 per card, multiple cards can be purchased
Prizes for HIGHEST score and LOWEST score
ANY type of vehicle is welcome
Door prizes | 50/50 raffle | Silent auction | T-shirts and patches available for purchase
Rain or shine event. For information call Richard at 660-441-1892

Supporting Appropriate Behavior Webinar
2024-04-15 15:30 - 16:30
Click here to register today!
Presented by: Cortney Fish, M.S.W., BCBA, LBA

Audience: Educators, Early Intervention Professionals

Session Description:

This session will provide educational professionals with an overview of strategies to promote appropriate behavior in the classroom setting. The content will include functional information on why problem behavior may occur. Strategies to address the environment as well as teach/reinforce new behavior will be discussed. We recommend you also attend the Functional Behavior Assessment webinar. Note: This session is not intended for BCBAs.

Pathway to Success: A Transition Resource Event
2024-04-15 17:00 - 19:00 | Columbia Hickman High School, 1104 N Providence Rd, Columbia, MO, 65203, United States
Click here to register today!
Families and students of all ages who are impacted by a disability are invited to attend this FREE event! Participants will have the opportunity to engage with experts and learn about the various agencies that provide support during the transition process for students and young adults.
Participating agencies and topics include, but are not limited to:

Thompson Center for Autism & Neurodevelopment
Columbia Public Schools
Missouri Parents Act
Encircle, Woodhaven
Midwest Inclusive Postsecondary Alliance
Boone County Family Resources

Event hosted by Columbia Public Schools and sponsored in collaboration with the Missouri Office of Autism Services

Self-Advocate Series Part #2: All Things Technology Webinar
2024-04-16 17:00 - 18:00
Click here to register today!
Presented by: Jaclyn Benigno, M.Ed.

Audience: Individuals with autism

Session Description:

This session will identify strategies for communicating with others using technology including professional and casual emails, texts, leaving voicemail messages, etc.

Understanding Ableism & Supporting Neurodiversity Webinar with Haley Moss
2024-04-17 17:30 - 18:30
Click here to register today!
Storytelling has so much power for autistic people – but our stories are often told in ways that leave us silenced, unheard, or invalidated. This happens because ableism is pervasive in our culture. Autistic people can internalize ableism in a way that negatively impacts our own self-worth, self-esteem, and decisions to share our identities with the world. Those same attitudes also are grounded in stereotypes that hold us back throughout our lives. How do we get rid of barriers to access to be more inclusive and allow autistic people to fully be themselves? Join Haley for a candid conversation all about ableism and how access is a form of compassion and care for us all.
Haley Moss is a lawyer, neurodiversity expert, and the author of four books that guide neurodivergent individuals through professional and personal challenges. She is a speaker and consultant to top corporations and organizations that seek her guidance in creating an inclusive workplace, and a sought-after commentator on disability rights issues. The first openly autistic lawyer in Florida, Haley’s books include “Great Minds Think Differently: Neurodiversity for Lawyers and Other Professionals” (ABA Book Publishing; June 2021) and “The Young Autistic Adult’s Independence Handbook” (Jessica Kingsley Publishers; November 2021). Her articles have appeared in outlets including the Washington Post, Teen Vogue, and Fast Company.

Autism Day with Mizzou Baseball
2024-04-20
Join us April 20 at 4:00 pm for Autism Day at Taylor Stadium when the Mizzou Tigers take on LSU! The game features a ceremonial first pitch by a Thompson Center patient and appearance by special guests, Miss Missouri Hayley Leach!
Learn more and register at https://bit.ly/AutismDayBaseball

Functional Behavior Assessment Webinar
2024-04-22 15:30 - 16:30
Click here to register today!
Presented by: Cortney Fish, M.S.W., BCBA, LBA

Audience: Educators, School Psychologists, Professionals working with students with problem bx

Session Description:

This session will provide an overview of the Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) process for professionals working in a school setting. Participants will learn how to collect multiple forms of data, and how to analyze that data to identify possible reasons for the target behavior to occurring. The content of this presentation will focus on the relationship between the environment and appropriate behavior. This session will also provide resources for education professionals to access as they move forward with using FBAs. Although not required, we recommend you attend the Supporting Appropriate behavior webinar prior to attending this one. This session is not intended for BCBAs.

Pathway to Success: Transition Event
2024-04-23 17:15 - 19:00 | Columbia Hickman High School, 1104 N Providence Rd, Columbia, MO, 65203, United States
Click here to register today!
This is a FREE transition resource event for families and students impacted by a disability. We encourage caretakers of students of all ages to join us for this event. It is never too early to think about the transition process. You will be able to talk with experts and learn about building independence.
Participating agencies and topics include, but are not limited to:

Thompson Center for Autism & Neurodevelopment
Columbia Public Schools
Boone County Family Resources
MU Disability Center
Midwest Inclusive Post-Secondary Alliance
Vocational Rehabilitation
Alternative Community Training
Missouri Parents Act

5:15-5:45 p.m.: Panel Discussion
5:15-7:00 p.m.: Resource Tables
Please come and go from the event as needed!
Event hosted by Columbia Public Schools and sponsored in collaboration with the Missouri Office of Autism Services
Questions? Contact us! kasiegel@cpsk12.org, (573) 214-3984

ADOS-2 Introductory Clinical Training (Modules 1-4)
2024-04-24 08:00 - 2024-04-25 16:30 | Thompson Center Research and Training Facility, 200 N. Keene St., Columbia, MO, 65201
Click here to register today!
Prerequisites:
Bachelor’s degree or higher and relevant work experience and current occupational role. Trainees will be notified if it is determined that these prerequisites are not met.
Description:
This is a 2-day clinical training on the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, 2nd Edition (ADOS-2). This is an introductory workshop with instructional methods that include lectures, videos, demonstrations of administration and scoring, and discussions. This workshop is designed for researchers, clinicians, and educators with prior background in autism spectrum disorder and formal testing, such as speech-language pathologists, physicians, psychologists, school-based autism specialists, and occupational therapists. This training is necessary for anyone planning to use the ADOS-2 in clinical or school settings and serves as a pre-requisite for more thorough training required to obtain research reliability to use the ADOS-2 for research purposes.
The goals of this 2-day workshop are to provide a detailed overview of the ADOS-2, its development, its psychometric properties, and appropriate use and interpretation. Full-length demonstrations of the measure are provided each day. Participants will practice scoring while observing the administration with the support of an experienced independent ADOS-2 trainer. Detailed discussions on scoring the ADOS-2 follow each demonstration. Additional examples from video may also be shown and discussed.
Learning Objectives:
Upon completion of this training, participants should be able to:

Identify the key features of the ADOS-2 approach, including the rationale for the approach and how it enhances autism assessment.
Identify administration procedures for the ADOS-2 Modules 1-4.
Describe use of the ADOS-2 for operationalizing diagnostic criteria for autism spectrum disorders as learned through didactic and in-vivo/video demonstrations.
Explain how to select the most appropriate ADOS-2 module based on an individual’s verbal language level and chronological age.
Demonstrate a basic understanding of how to apply ADOS-2 codes, score and interpret ADOS-2 Module 1-4 algorithms to determine ADOS-2 classification, and interpret severity scores for level of autism spectrum-related symptoms.
Describe the psychometric support for the ADOS-2 (i.e., sensitivity and specificity).
Explain issues in the clinical application of the ADOS-2, utilization of the ADOS-2 Modules 1-4 results for clinical purposes, and challenges in assessment of autism spectrum disorder.

Fee:

$500 registration fee
15 hours of APA CEs and 15 NASP CPDs may be available for an additional fee of $100
Professional groups of 5 or more individuals will receive a 10% discount; enter code ADOS2 at checkout to apply the discount

Thompson Center Groundbreaking Ceremony
2024-04-25 15:00 - 16:00 | South Providence Medical Park, 551 Veterans United Drive, Columbia, MO, 65201, United States
Click here for more information about the Thompson Center Groundbreaking Ceremony

ADOS-2 Toddler Module: Half-Day Training
2024-04-26 08:00 - 12:00 | Thompson Center Research and Training Facility, 200 N. Keene St., Columbia, MO, 65201
Click here to register today!
Prerequisites:
Bachelor’s degree or higher and relevant work experience and current occupational role. Must complete training in Modules 1-4 prior to training (may be the same training week). Trainees will be notified if it is determined that these prerequisites are not met.
Description:
This is a half-day introductory workshop specific to the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, 2nd Edition (ADOS-2) Toddler Module with instructional methods that include lectures, videos, practice with scoring, and discussions. This workshop is designed for clinicians, researchers, and educators with prior background in autism spectrum disorder and formal testing, such as speech-language pathologists, physicians, psychologists, special education autism specialists, and occupational therapists. All trainees are expected to have completed formal training on Modules 1-4 of the ADOS-2, either through the 2-day ADOS-2 Introductory Clinical Training or the ADOS-2 DVD Training Package available from WPS.
The ADOS-2 Toddler Module is a tool that can be used as part of a comprehensive assessment for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children 12 to 30 months of age who are not yet speaking in phrases. This workshop uses lecture format and video demonstrations to introduce the basic principles of administration and scoring, providing an essential step toward competence in using the ADOS-2 for clinical and/or research purposes. Participants will gain experience in scoring the Toddler Module with the support of an experienced independent ADOS-2 trainer.
Learning Objectives:
Upon completion of this training, participants should be able to:

Describe administration procedures of ADOS-2 Toddler Module through didactic and in-vivo/video demonstrations.
Explain how to select the most appropriate ADOS-2 module based on an individual’s verbal language level and chronological age.
Discuss and practice coding the ADOS-2 Toddler Module.
Describe the psychometric support for the ADOS-2 Toddler Module (i.e., sensitivity and specificity).
Explain issues in the clinical application of the ADOS-2 Toddler Module, utilization of the ADOS-2 Toddler Module results for clinical purposes, and challenges in assessment of autism spectrum disorder in young children.

Fee:

$350 registration fee
4 hours of APA CEs and 15 NASP CPDs may be available at no additional cost

TIPS for Kids Poster Session
2024-04-26 11:00 - 13:00 | Thompson Center Research and Training Facility, 200 N. Keene St., Columbia, MO, 65201
The Missouri LEND Program, TIPS for Kids, invites you to our poster session featuring TIPS trainees. The trainees will present their year-long research and training projects, which focus on supporting children with special healthcare needs in collaboration with diverse community partnerships.
For more information about TIPS for Kids, visit www.facebook.com/TIPS4KidsMOLEND

Mental Health Co-Occurring Diagnoses and Autism Webinar
2024-04-26 12:00 - 13:00
Click here to register today!
Presented by: Jennifer Sykes, Ph.D.

Audience: Psychologists, Social Workers, Counselors, Other Professionals working with individuals with autism

Session Description:

This training will explore common co-occurring diagnoses. Attendees will be able to identify mental health conditions that are frequently associated with autism as well as analyze symptom overlap and how characteristics of various diagnoses interact. This session qualifies for APA CEs.

ADOS-2 Advanced/Research Training
2024-04-29 08:00 - 16:30 | Thompson Center Research and Training Facility, 200 N. Keene St., Columbia, MO, 65201
Click here to register today!
Prerequisites:
Bachelor’s degree or higher and relevant work experience and current occupational role. Must complete the ADOS-2 Introductory Clinical training in Modules 1-4 prior to training. Trainees will be notified if it is determined that these prerequisites are not met.
Prior to attending training, you will need to have access to an ADOS-2 manual and kit. ADOS-2 kits, manuals and protocols are available through Western Psychological Services at 1-800-648-8857 or at www.wpspublish.com.
Description:
This is a 2-day ADOS-2 Advanced/Research Training for specialists in ASD interested in establishing research reliability. This course provides the detailed, advanced training necessary for people who plan to use the ADOS-2 in research. It is also appropriate for clinicians who wish to achieve reliability with others using the measure. The goals of this workshop are to provide hands-on experience and feedback in administering the ADOS-2, detailed instruction and practice with coding, and information on appropriate use and interpretation in research. This advanced level workshop involves intensive instruction on the psychometrics of the instrument, working in small groups on administering and scoring the ADOS-2, and discussion and question/answer about specific administration and coding issues. Participants will receive coaching of their own administration as well as additional practice with scoring. Participants will be given instructions on next steps for achieving research reliability.
Following the training, for the research reliability process, participants must demonstrate understanding and fidelity in administration and coding. This is achieved through scoring additional videos that will be provided to you and through submitting (at least) two post-course video recordings of yourself administering different ADOS-2 modules and respective scored protocols. The above fee includes one free ADOS-2 video submission toward research reliability.
Learning Objectives:
Upon completion of this training, participants should be able to:

Identify the key features of the ADOS-2 approach, including the rationale for the approach and how it enhances autism assessment across ages, developmental levels, and language skills.
Identify appropriate administration procedures for the ADOS-2.
Demonstrate a nuanced understanding of how to apply ADOS-2 codes, score and interpret ADOS-2 algorithms to determine ADOS-2 classification, and interpret severity scores for level of autism spectrum-related symptoms.
Map ADOS-2 individual behavior codes to the DSM-5 criteria for autism spectrum disorder to assist in making a differential diagnosis.
Describe the psychometrics supporting the ADOS-2 (i.e., sensitivity and specificity).
Explain issues in the clinical application of the ADOS-2, utilization of the ADOS-2 results for clinical and/or research purposes, and challenges in assessment of autism spectrum disorder.

Fee:

$2,750 registration fee
APA continuing education credits included

Autism Parent Conference by Children's Mercy Kansas City
2024-04-29 08:30 - 15:30 | Kauffman Foundation Conference Center, 4801 Rockhill Road, Kansas City, MO, 64110, United States
Click here to register today!
This one-day Autism Parent Conference is for parents, grandparents, and caregivers of a child with autism.
Monday, April 29, 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. (Registration is from 8:30-9:00 a.m.)
Location: Kauffman Foundation Conference Center, 4801 Rockhill Road, Kansas City, MO 64110
Cost: $30, lunch included
Keynote Presentation: Putting the FUN in Functional Communication
Session 1 (Choose 1): How to Prioritize Your Child’s Needs OR Autism and a Spectrum of Safety: What Caregivers Need to Know
Session 2 (Choose 1): How to Develop a Life Plan for Your Child with Disabilities OR Working Toward Self-Regulation
Session 3 (Choose 1): Dealing with Rigid Behaviors: Helping Your Child Become More Flexible OR Communicating About Your Child’s Autism Diagnosis with Family and Friends
Register online by April 15, 2024
Questions, please contact: mhammond@cmh.edu or (913) 696-5711
In collaboration with the Thompson Center for Autism & Neurodevelopment

Self-Advocate Series Part #3: The Hidden Curriculum Webinar
2024-04-30 17:00 - 18:00
Click here to register today!
Presented by: Jaclyn Benigno, M.Ed.

Audience: Individuals with autism

Session Description:

This session will identify strategies to better understand social norms, values, and beliefs.

SLP Autism Immersion Day
2024-06-21 | Thompson Center Research and Training Facility, 200 N. Keene St., Columbia, MO, 65201
Save the date: SLP Autism Immersion Day will take place June 21, 2024 at the Thompson Center for Autism & Neurodevelopment. Free ASHA CEUs available! Topics will include: speech generating devices, childhood apraxia of speech, and young adult & parent panels.
Register now at bit.ly/SLPAutismDay

ADOS-2 Introductory Clinical Training (Modules 1-4)
2024-07-17 08:00 - 2024-07-18 16:30 | Thompson Center Research and Training Facility, 200 N. Keene St., Columbia, MO, 65201
Click here to register today!

Prerequisites:
Bachelor’s degree or higher and relevant work experience and current occupational role. Trainees will be notified if it is determined that these prerequisites are not met.
Description:
This is a 2-day clinical training on the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, 2nd Edition (ADOS-2). This is an introductory workshop with instructional methods that include lectures, videos, demonstrations of administration and scoring, and discussions. This workshop is designed for researchers, clinicians, and educators with prior background in autism spectrum disorder and formal testing, such as speech-language pathologists, physicians, psychologists, school-based autism specialists, and occupational therapists. This training is necessary for anyone planning to use the ADOS-2 in clinical or school settings and serves as a pre-requisite for more thorough training required to obtain research reliability to use the ADOS-2 for research purposes.
The goals of this 2-day workshop are to provide a detailed overview of the ADOS-2, its development, its psychometric properties, and appropriate use and interpretation. Full-length demonstrations of the measure are provided each day. Participants will practice scoring while observing the administration with the support of an experienced independent ADOS-2 trainer. Detailed discussions on scoring the ADOS-2 follow each demonstration. Additional examples from video may also be shown and discussed.
Learning Objectives:
Upon completion of this training, participants should be able to:

Identify the key features of the ADOS-2 approach, including the rationale for the approach and how it enhances autism assessment.
Identify administration procedures for the ADOS-2 Modules 1-4.
Describe use of the ADOS-2 for operationalizing diagnostic criteria for autism spectrum disorders as learned through didactic and in-vivo/video demonstrations.
Explain how to select the most appropriate ADOS-2 module based on an individual’s verbal language level and chronological age.
Demonstrate a basic understanding of how to apply ADOS-2 codes, score and interpret ADOS-2 Module 1-4 algorithms to determine ADOS-2 classification, and interpret severity scores for level of autism spectrum-related symptoms.
Describe the psychometric support for the ADOS-2 (i.e., sensitivity and specificity).
Explain issues in the clinical application of the ADOS-2, utilization of the ADOS-2 Modules 1-4 results for clinical purposes, and challenges in assessment of autism spectrum disorder.

Fee:

$500 registration fee
15 hours of APA CEs may be available for an additional fee of $100
Professional groups of 5 or more individuals will receive a 10% discount; enter code ADOS2 at checkout to apply the discount
