Professional Development Webinars
The Thompson Center is thrilled to provide FREE virtual training opportunities for professionals working with individuals with autism.
Discover a range of topics that cater to your specific interests and needs. Registration links and session information can be found below, and we encourage you to sign up for multiple topics. Many sessions are offered more than once for your convenience.
All sessions will be conducted live via the Zoom platform. Please note that sessions will not be recorded.
If you have questions or require additional assistance, please contact Jaclyn Benigno at benignoj@health.missouri.edu.
Interested in additional training? Check out our video training library with a variety of topics including Overview of Autism, Comprehensive Evaluations, toileting, and more! We strongly suggest watching Overview of Autism before attending the webinars.
Presented by: Jaclyn Benigno, MEd
Audience: Educators, paraprofessionals, professionals working with students with autism
Session Description:
Successful transitions don’t happen by chance, they require planning, support, and the right strategies. In this session, we’ll identify three key barriers that often stand in the way of a smooth transition and explore practical approaches for overcoming them. Participants will learn strategies to build independence in autistic individuals of all ages, helping them navigate change with confidence.
October 28, 2025 | 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. CST
Presented by: Jennifer Sykes, PhD
Audience: Psychologists, Social Workers, counselors, and other professionals working with individuals with autism
Session Description:
This workshop provides an overview of evidence-based practices (EBPs) in the assessment and intervention of autistic individuals across the lifespan. Participants will review current research findings, learn how to critically evaluate intervention claims, and discuss strategies for incorporating EBPs into clinical decision-making while respecting individual and family values. Special attention will be given to adapting practices to diverse clinical settings and maintaining fidelity to core treatment principles. Learning Objectives: By the end of this program, participants will be able to:
1. Identify at least five evidence-based practices commonly recommended for supporting autistic individuals.
2. Apply criteria for evaluating whether an intervention meets the definition of “evidence-based” according to professional guidelines.
3. Describe strategies for integrating evidence-based practices into individualized treatment planning while maintaining clinical flexibility.
*This session qualifies for 1 APA CE credit.
October 24, 2025 | 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. CST
Presented by: Jennifer Sykes, PhD
Audience: Psychologists, Social Workers, counselors, and other professionals working with individuals with autism
Session Description:
This presentation highlights the role of psychologists and mental health professionals in fostering neurodiversity-affirming practices. Participants will examine the principles of the neurodiversity paradigm, contrast deficit-based and strengths-based approaches, and learn strategies for reducing stigma in clinical work. Emphasis will be placed on balancing evidence-based care with respect for autistic identity and autonomy, as well as ethical considerations for practice. By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
1. Explain the core principles of the neurodiversity paradigm and how they differ from deficit-focused models.
2. Identify at least two ways to incorporate neurodiversity-affirming practices into assessment, intervention, or consultation.
3. Evaluate ethical considerations when integrating neurodiversity acceptance with evidence-based clinical practices.
*This session qualifies for 1 APA CE credit.
November 7, 2025 | 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. CST
Presented by: Kristen Goodwin
Audience: Parents, caregivers, anyone interested in learning more about SSI and SSDI
Session Description:
Understanding Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) will provide an overview of the basic eligibility requirements for these programs. The session will cover benefits available to both children and adults with disabilities, explain how income and resources can impact eligibility, and highlight key information for parents and caregivers.
November 14, 2025 | 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. CST
Presented by: Jennifer Sykes, PhD
Audience: Psychologists, Social Workers, counselors, and other professionals working with individuals with autism
Session Description:
This session explores strategies for fostering independence and adaptive functioning in autistic clients, with a focus on teaching daily living skills, executive functioning, and community participation. Participants will review research-supported interventions, discuss culturally responsive approaches, and learn how to collaborate with families, schools, and community providers. Practical tools for assessment and progress monitoring will also be introduced. By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
1. Describe at least three intervention strategies supported by research for teaching daily living skills to autistic clients.
2. Develop individualized goals for life skill development that are developmentally appropriate and culturally sensitive.
3. Apply methods for assessing progress in life skill acquisition and adapting interventions to enhance
*This session qualifies for 1 APA CE credit.
December 5, 2025 | 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. CST
Presented by: Tara Devore, MEd
Audience: Anyone working with individuals with developmental disabilities
Session Description:
Independence grows when we focus on what children can do, not just what they can’t. This session will explore how adults can support autistic children’s journey toward independence through a strengths-based approach spotlighting each child’s abilities, interests, and potential. We’ll share practical strategies for building confidence and life skills, encouraging autonomy in daily routines, fostering self-advocacy, and creating environments where students can thrive.
January 28, 2026 | 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. CST
Presented by: Jennifer Sykes, PhD
Audience: Caregivers and professionals working with children under 10 years old
Session Description:
Play is one of the best ways to connect with autistic children—and in this webinar, we’ll talk about how to make those moments meaningful. You’ll learn how to see play from the child’s perspective, follow their interests, and create experiences that feel joyful and inclusive while supporting growth in social, emotional, and developmental areas. We’ll spend about 30 minutes on content and leave another 30 minutes just for your questions.
January 30, 2026 | 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. CST
Presented by: Jaclyn Benigno, MEd
Audience: Case managers and educators
Session Description:
Effective transition planning can open doors and change futures. In this session, we’ll outline the standards for creating transition plans that are both compliant and impactful for students receiving special education services. Participants will gain practical strategies and a clear understanding of the policies that guide transition planning, leaving equipped to design plans that are meaningful and supportive.
February 10, 2026 | 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. CST
Presented by: Michelle Dampf, MA, CCC-SLP
Audience: Educators, Speech Language Pathologists and early intervention professionals
Session Description:
Teens with autism often face unique challenges in developing relationships, understanding social dynamics, and monitoring their own emotions and behaviors. This 60-minute presentation is designed for professionals working with autistic teens, providing evidence-based strategies to support the development of healthy relationships, enhance self-monitoring skills, and promote self-advocacy.
February 11, 2026 | 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. CST
Presented by: Sean Simmons, PhD, BCBA
Audience: Anyone working with individuals with developmental disabilities
Session Description:
Token economies can be a powerful tool for motivating and reinforcing positive behavior when they’re designed and implemented effectively. In this workshop, participants will learn the fundamentals of token systems, explore how to create flexible and age-appropriate models, and discover strategies for troubleshooting when programs don’t go as planned. Participants will leave with practical tools they can adapt to meet the needs of their own settings.
February 17, 2026 | 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. CST
Presented by: Jennifer Sykes, PhD
Audience: Psychologists, Social Workers, counselors, and other professionals working with individuals with autism
Session Description:
This session is a repeat of APA Workshop #1, originally presented in October. Please note that participants cannot receive APA credit for attending the same presentation more than once.
This workshop provides an overview of evidence-based practices (EBPs) in the assessment and intervention of autistic individuals across the lifespan. Participants will review current research findings, learn how to critically evaluate intervention claims, and discuss strategies for incorporating EBPs into clinical decision-making while respecting individual and family values. Special attention will be given to adapting practices to diverse clinical settings and maintaining fidelity to core treatment principles. Learning Objectives: By the end of this program, participants will be able to:
1. Identify at least five evidence-based practices commonly recommended for supporting autistic individuals.
2. Apply criteria for evaluating whether an intervention meets the definition of “evidence-based” according to professional guidelines.
3. Describe strategies for integrating evidence-based practices into individualized treatment planning while maintaining clinical flexibility.
*This session qualifies for 1 APA CE credit.
February 20, 2026 | 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. CST
Presented by: Jennifer Sykes, PhD
Audience: Caregivers and professionals working with children under 10 years old
Session Description:
Emotions can be tough to navigate for kids and adults alike. This webinar will introduce emotion coaching as a practical way to help autistic children understand, express, and manage their feelings. We’ll talk about how to respond with empathy, build emotional resilience, and strengthen relationships by meeting children where they are emotionally. Expect 30 minutes of content, followed by 30 minutes dedicated to your questions.
March 6, 2026 | 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. CST
Presented by: Jennifer Sykes, PhD
Audience: Psychologists, Social Workers, counselors, and other professionals working with individuals with autism
Session Description:
This session is a repeat of APA Workshop #2, originally presented in November. Please note that participants cannot receive APA credit for attending the same presentation more than once.
This presentation highlights the role of psychologists and mental health professionals in fostering neurodiversity-affirming practices. Participants will examine the principles of the neurodiversity paradigm, contrast deficit-based and strengths-based approaches, and learn strategies for reducing stigma in clinical work. Emphasis will be placed on balancing evidence-based care with respect for autistic identity and autonomy, as well as ethical considerations for practice. By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
1. Explain the core principles of the neurodiversity paradigm and how they differ from deficit-focused models.
2. Identify at least two ways to incorporate neurodiversity-affirming practices into assessment, intervention, or consultation.
3. Evaluate ethical considerations when integrating neurodiversity acceptance with evidence-based clinical practices.
*This session qualifies for 1 APA CE credit.
March 20, 2026 | 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. CST
Presented by: Jennifer Sykes, PhD
Audience: Psychologists, Social Workers, counselors, and other professionals working with individuals with autism
Session Description:
This session is a repeat of APA Workshop #3, originally presented in December. Please note that participants cannot receive APA credit for attending the same presentation more than once.
This session explores strategies for fostering independence and adaptive functioning in autistic clients, with a focus on teaching daily living skills, executive functioning, and community participation. Participants will review research-supported interventions, discuss culturally responsive approaches, and learn how to collaborate with families, schools, and community providers. Practical tools for assessment and progress monitoring will also be introduced. By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
1. Describe at least three intervention strategies supported by research for teaching daily living skills to autistic clients.
2. Develop individualized goals for life skill development that are developmentally appropriate and culturally sensitive.
3. Apply methods for assessing progress in life skill acquisition and adapting interventions to enhance
*This session qualifies for 1 APA CE credit.
April 17, 2026 | 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. CST