2025 Events

It's Never too Late: Autistic Friendships, Mental Health, and Brain Development Across the Lifespan

Featuring Dr. Amy Vaughan Van Hecke, Ph.D.

It's Never too Late: Autistic Friendships, Mental Health, and Brain Development Across the Lifespan by Dr. Amy Vaughan Van Hecke, Ph.D.  highlights the importance of recognizing the unique strengths of autistic individuals and promoting individualized, inclusive care. The presentation emphasizes the value of reciprocal friendships for mental and physical well-being, the need for therapies informed by autistic voices, and the role of self-determination in improving support across the lifespan.

What We Learned

  • Neurodiversity emphasizes the natural variation in how brains develop and function, reinforcing that autistic individuals possess valuable and distinct strengths—such as honesty, loyalty, strong attention to detail, and task-focused diligence. These qualities highlight the importance of recognizing and appreciating the unique contributions of neurodivergent individuals, rather than viewing differences through a deficit-based lens.
  • High-quality, reciprocal friendships are essential for emotional well-being, self-esteem, and physical health in both autistic and non-autistic people. The presence of close relationships is associated with reduced anxiety and depression, and when desired, therapies that focus on building and maintaining relationships can be helpful across the lifespan for individuals on the spectrum.
  • While many therapies for autistic individuals are grounded in research, they often lack meaningful input from the autistic community. Incorporating autistic voices can enhance the relevance and effectiveness of interventions, especially when addressing common co-occurring conditions like ADHD, anxiety, and depression. Clinicians should prioritize self-determination and individualized approaches to ensure that supports align with each person’s goals and needs.

Compassion in Action: Modern ABA for Meaningful Early Intervention

Featuring Jennifer Harris, Ph.D., LMFT, BCBA-D

Modern ABA for Meaningful Early Intervention" by Jennifer Harris emphasizes the importance of compassionate care in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). It addresses common misconceptions about ABA and advocates for an approach that prioritizes empathy, dignity, and individualized support for clients and their families. The presentation underscores the role of social validity, non-contingent compassion, and ethical treatment practices to enhance the overall well-being of individuals receiving ABA services.

What We Learned

  • Modern ABA focuses on empathy and individualized support, ensuring that interventions respect the dignity and autonomy of each client. It moves away from outdated, compliance-driven methods and instead fosters a nurturing, positive learning environment. Compassionate care emphasizes minimizing distress while maximizing engagement and growth.
  • Effective ABA interventions must be socially meaningful, aligning with the values and needs of the client and their family. This approach ensures that goals are not only clinically beneficial but also culturally respectful and relevant to the individual’s quality of life. Ethical practices, including informed consent and collaboration, are essential for long-term success.
  • ABA should prioritize positive reinforcement to encourage desired behaviors rather than relying on extinction or punitive measures. Building trust through reinforcement makes learning enjoyable and reduces the need for interventions that cause frustration or distress. A compassionate approach enhances motivation and promotes lasting behavioral improvements.