Management of Autism in Pediatric Populations: New Insights and a Review of the Latest Research Findings

Course overview

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can look different for every individual, which is why understanding it deeply is essential for effective support. ASD impacts communication, behavior, and social interactions, and its causes are influenced by many factors. Without early and accurate identification, individuals with ASD may face challenges that affect their quality of life across the lifespan. This 2-hour, live, interactive webinar hosted by Zoom is designed to give therapists a clear and practical overview of autism, focusing on the most current research and evidence-based approaches. We will explore key topics such as (a) the biopsychosocial model and how it shapes intervention strategies; (b) the importance of the first 1,000 days of life in neurodevelopment; (c) how areas such as nutritional neuroscience, sleep, and gut health (psychogastroenterology) impact behavior and regulation; and (d) the role of psychoneuroimmunology and the brain-body connection in treatment planning. By the end of this training, you will be able to apply these insights during intake, screening, assessment, treatment planning, and case management of your occupational therapy sessions. This training bridges complex science with real-world therapy tools, giving you actionable strategies to better support your autistic clients. At the end of this course, you will be able to (1) identify autism as a form of neurodiversity, including its core characteristics and how it may present across individuals; (2) identify common communication, sensory, and behavioral patterns seen in autistic individuals, as well as frequently co-occurring conditions, with an emphasis on strengths-based observation; (3) identify autistic traits that may influence daily routines, learning, and participation in various environments, while acknowledging strengths and potential barriers; and (4) state supportive screening, intervention, and intervention strategies that empower autistic individuals and their families during occupational therapy sessions. This distance-learning, interactive format is offered at 0.2 CEUs, Introductory Level, OT Service Delivery, Foundational Knowledge, and targeted to introductory- to intermediate-level OTs, OTAs, PTs, PTAs, SLPs, mental health practitioners, educators, and other pediatric professionals. The course instructor, Jerrod Brown, PhD is a professor, trainer, and consultant with multiple years of experience teaching collegiate courses. Jerrod has also been employed with Pathways Counseling Center, Inc. in St. Paul, Minnesota, since 2003. For more information on our live courses, visit our website: https://www.sensationalbrain.com/product-category/ceu/on-demand-webinars/. For more information on our live courses, visit our website: https://www.sensationalbrain.com/ceu/live-webinars. To stay abreast of our latest live and view-on-demand course offerings, sales, and FREEBIES, consider subscribing to our newsletter by scrolling to the bottom of our home page. Send questions to celeste@sensationalbrain.com.