COSAC's Annual Issues in Autism Conference

Issues in Autism Conference Workshop Descriptions



2008 Workshop Tracking System



Birth to 5 years: Young Children; 6 to 12 years: Elementary Age; 13 to 17 years: Adolescence; 18 years and older: Adult Age; All ages

ABA= The Workshop is based on the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis
BCBA= Type 2 CEUs Offered for Board Certified Behavior Analysts™

The tracking system can be used to determine what workshops are most appropriate for you based on your interest, knowledge and experience. All workshop descriptions are marked as Basic, Intermediate or Advanced. Although workshops may be targeted to a particular audience, such as BCBAs, all are open to each attendee. The tracking system is meant to be a guide for attendee’s convenience.
Please keep the following guidelines in mind when evaluating workshop level:

Basic: Attendees have little or no prior knowledge of the workshop topic.
Intermediate: Attendees are familiar with topic terminology and practices and have some topic-related experience.
Advanced: Attendees are fluent in the topic terminology and have extensive topic experience. Attendees will learn about specialized application of content.

Issues in Autism: Friday, May 16



Session A, 10:45 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.


For ages birth to 5 years and ages 6 to 12 years. Intermediate level, based on ABA and offering CEUs.
1. Practical Strategies for Educating Young Children with High-Functioning Autism and Asperger's Disorder
Presented by Mary Jane Weiss, Ph.D., BCBA, The Douglass Developmental Disabilities Center.
This workshop will focus on meeting the unique and complex needs of young children with high-functioning autism and Asperger's Disorder. These are students whose issues in classrooms may be subtle, behaviors may be misinterpreted, and who require supports to succeed in regular education environments. Topics will include descriptions of effective treatments, facilitating effective teamwork in an educational setting and planning for effective transitions to less restrictive educational environments. While this workshop is designed for behavior analysts, other professionals and family members are likely to benefit from the content.
For ages birth to 5 years, ages 6 to 12 years and ages 13 to 17 years. Intermediate level, based on ABA and offering CEUs.
2. Systematic Assessment of Teaching Programs in Applied Behavior Analysis Settings
Presented by Anne Holmes, M.S., CCC, BCBA, and Michelle Brooks, B.Ed., Eden Services.
While the field of Applied Behavior Analysis is filled with literature focusing on the assessment of maladaptive behavior, there is little to support the systematic assessment of teaching programs when progress is not occurring.  This workshop will present a systematic assessment format for such troubleshooting.  Individual examples will be used to illustrate the effectiveness of this format. While this workshop is designed for behavior analysts, other professionals and family members are likely to benefit from the content.
For ages birth to 5 years, ages 6 to 12 years and ages 13 to 17 years. Advanced level, based on ABA and offering CEUs.
3. Facilitating the Development of Peer Relationships Among Children and Adolescents with Autism
Presented by Dawn Townsend, Ph.D., BCBA, Jill Casey, M.A., Amy LoCoco, B.A., and Larell Kusmierz, B.A., Institute for Educational Achievement.
This presentation focuses on critical skills for establishing positive peer relationships in students with autism, from childhood through adolescence.  Individualized teaching procedures, clinical data and video will be presented. While this workshop is designed for behavior analysts, other professionals and family members are likely to benefit from the content.
For all ages at a basic level.
4. Separating the Wheat from the Chaff: Evaluating Research 101
Presented by Andrew Abere, Ph.D., Economist and parent.
Parents and professionals often are flooded with a torrent of information about autism. In this workshop, a parent of a child with autism who has spent his career evaluating research will review and demonstrate useful techniques to critically review the research (or, in some cases, the lack of it) using the debates about mercury and inclusion.
For all ages at an intermediate level.
5. Healthcare Insurance, Medicaid and Waiver Services Through the New Jersey Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD)
Presented by Valerie A. Powers Smith, Esq., Hinkle, Fingles & Prior, and Leslie Long, COSAC.
Targeted toward parents, this workshop will overview different types of healthcare coverage and address coordination of coverage and appeal rights under the respective healthcare programs. This workshop also will explore Medicaid, including eligibility and services under the different programs within New Jersey and DDD's Community Care Waiver program.
For all ages at a basic level based on ABA.
6. Positive Behavioral Supports
Presented by Daniel Baker, Ph.D., Philip Smith, Ph.D., and Melissa Cheplic, M.P.H., C.H.E.S., The Elizabeth M. Boggs Center on Developmental Disabilities, UMDNJ.
In this session, attendees will learn about the strategies of positive behavior support (PBS) and how these tools easily fit into the process of planning individual supports. The session will include content on understanding reasons for problem behavior and how to intervene when a person demonstrates problem behavior.
For all ages at a basic level based on ABA.
7. Including Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Faith-Based Communities
Presented by Jessica Rothschild, B.A., Linda Meyer, Ed.D., MPA, COSAC, Anne Masters, M.A., Archdiocese of Newark, and Geraldine Gibbia, Ph.D., CCC-SLP, Phoenix Center.
This workshop will acquaint attendees with the rights and opportunities for inclusion of people with ASDs within faith communities. Areas of emphasis will include: behavioral and communicative support; resources for inclusion in religious instruction and worship; and utilizing research-based instructional strategies to facilitate inclusion in faith communities.
For ages 13 to 17 years and 18 years and older. Basic level.
8. Residential Issues for Adolescents and Adults with Autism
Presented by Eileen Hopkins, Ph.D., Eden II Programs.
This presentation will orient attendees to important options, principles and practices in the area of residential services, with the goal of building skills to provide quality services and supports to individuals with autism in residential settings.Topics will include: needs assessment and program development; dietary, health and medical needs; developing opportunities for meaningful community inclusion; and promoting overall happiness and quality of life. A program staffing model found to be effective in delivering quality residential services will be reviewed, and time will be provided for participants to share ideas and practices they have found to be effective.
For ages birth to 5 years and 6 to 12 years at a basic level.
9. Identifying and Diagnosing Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders
Presented by Audrey Mars, M.D., Hunterdon Medical Center, and Roseanne Moreno, Psy.D., Hazlet School District.
This workshop will explore components of a comprehensive clinical evaluation of children with ASDs and provide an overview of the diagnostic features.
For all ages at a basic level.
10. Planning for the Future of Your Child with Special Needs
Presented by Douglas A. Vogel, B.A., Special Needs Advocate for Parents (SNAP) and parent.
Targeted toward family members, this session will explore special needs estate planning, or "Estate Creation," regardless of the size of a family's personal estate. The workshop will help participants learn how to navigate the maze of legal and financial information to gain confidence that the future of their children is secure.  
For all ages at an intermediate level.
11. Media and Autism Spectrum Disorders: One Responsible Journalist's Perspective
Presented by John Donvan, ABC's Nightline Correspondent.                                 
This workshop will discuss the media's influence on families' and professionals' decision-making for individuals of all ages with ASDs. Given the disproportionate media attention to fads, schemes and unsubstantiated facts, families and professionals may be led to ineffective interventions, which may be harmful and drain family resources. Responsible journalists promote accurate information that enables families to effectively advocate for services and connect to law and policy makers. John will discuss his work with ABC's NIGHTLINE and how, with the help of responsible, thinking media, accurate autism facts and stories can be imparted to better educate families and the public.


Session B, 1:45 p.m - 3:15 p.m.


For ages 13 years to adult at an intermediate level. Based on ABA and offering CEUs.
12. Technology and Learning: Developing Innovative Teaching Methods for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders
Presented by Mary McDonald, Ph.D., BCBA, Eden II Programs.
This presentation will provide information on a variety of technology-based instructional methods that can be used to teach skills to adolescents and adults with ASDs. Specific areas of video technology will be reviewed as they pertain to skill development. Computer programs will be presented and include commercial software and teacher-made lessons such as individualized PowerPoint applications (produced by The Genesis School). A variety of other technology-based tools will be discussed and depicted through video.  Specific areas of learning will focus on promoting independence, effective communication and social skills. While this workshop is designed for behavior analysts, other professionals and family members are likely to benefit from the content.
For ages Birth to 17 years at an intermediate level. Based on ABA and offering CEUs.
13. Conducting Data-Based Classroom Observations and Evaluations
Presented by Erik Mayville, Ph.D., BCBA, Institute for Educational Planning.
Today, a host of programs and services for students with autism are available throughout the country in public and private settings. The challenge is how to determine whether any particular program is actually based on the educational principles of Applied Behavior Analysis. Secondarily, parents and professionals often need to assess whether these services and learning environments are appropriate to meet the specific needs of a specific child.  This workshop will provide information and resources to assist in the process of program evaluations to facilitate educational placement decisions. While this workshop is designed for behavior analysts, other professionals and family members are likely to benefit from the content.
For ages Birth to 17 years at an intermediate level. Based on ABA and offering CEUs.
14. Teaching Social Skills to Children on the Autism Spectrum
Presented by Suzanne Letso, M.A., BCBA, and Judith Palazzo, M.S., BCBA, Connecticut Center for Child Development, Inc.
One of the challenges we face when teaching children with ASDs is developing  an educational plan that includes a comprehensive assessment, detailed curriculum and effective intervention strategies in the area of socialization. This workshop will provide an overview of behavioral research in the field of social skills treatment, describe the process of assessing individual children’s social skill repertoires, include examples of instructional strategies and identify where additional research is needed. While this workshop is designed for behavior analysts, other professionals and family members are likely to benefit from the content.
For all ages at an intermediate level.
15. Navigating the Waters of Intervention for Learners with Autism: How Parents Can Become Informed Consumers of Services
Presented By Robert LaRue, Ph.D., BCBA, The Douglass Developmental Disabilities Center.
This workshop will review some of the current literature regarding non-behavioral treatments and highlight strategies for evaluating their effectiveness.
For 18 years and older at an intermediate level, based on ABA.
16. Teaching Adults with Autism Independent Daily and Recreational Skills Using Activity Schedules
Presented by Kara Reagon, M.Ed., Josh MacDuff, Jaime MacDuff and Gregory S. MacDuff, Ph.D., Princeton Child Development Institute.
This workshop will discuss various types of skills (daily living, community and recreational) and formats of schedules (written, photographic and Palm™) used with adults. Several data-based, individual examples will be presented with video clips of adults' performance using activity schedules.
For all ages at a basic level.
17. Autism Spectrum Disorders and Mental Illness
Presented By Daniel Baker, Ph.D., and Philip Smith, Ph.D., The Elizabeth M. Boggs Center on Developmental Disabilities, UMDNJ.
Can a person have both an ASD and a mental illness? Absolutely. In this interactive session, current research on mental illness and considerations of how mental illness might impact the life of a person with an ASD will be discussed. Recommendations for proper diagnosis and support will be provided.
For all ages at a basic level.
18. Individuals with Autism and Faith Communities: Stories of Success and Resources to Empower
Presented by Mary Beth Walsh, Ph.D., Caldwell College and parent, William C. Gaventa, M.Div., The Elizabeth M. Boggs Center, Alice Walsh, M.Div., Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital and the United Methodist Church, and B. Madeleine Goldfarb, M.A., The Autism Center of UMDNJ and parent.
This presentation will begin with a viewing of the film, Family Journeys into Faith, Autism and Community, produced by Madeleine Goldfarb and The Autism Center of UMDNJ.  Speakers will briefly address the value of inclusion in communities of faith for individuals with autism and their families and the process of developing a resource booklet. Ample time will be given for audience questions.
For all ages at a basic level based on ABA.
19. The Seven Dimensions of Applied Behavior Analysis
Presented by Sandra Gomes, B.A., Somerset Hills Learning Institute.
Participants will learn the seven dimensions of Applied Behavior Analysis as described by Baer, Wolf & Risley (1968, 1987).  Each dimension plays a critical role in an effective education and treatment program for individuals with autism. For example, audience members will learn that procedures such as discrete trial teaching and incidental teaching are component packages within, not synonymous with, Applied Behavior Analysis.
For ages 6 years to adult at an intermediate level based on ABA.
20. Preparing for the Real World: Educational and Legal Considerations
Presented by Ira Fingles, Esq., Hinkle, Fingles & Prior, and Nina Finkler, M.Ed., LDT/C., BCBA, Eden Family of Services.
While it often is thought that transition planning begins at age 14, the presenters will discuss how the process of transition is truly a lifelong process.  Critical educational areas will be highlighted and the legal aspects of securing appropriate services and supports will be discussed.
For all ages at a basic level.
21. Top Five Ways to Help Keep Children Safe: Resources for Families
Presented by Kate Cerino Britton, M.S.Ed., M.A., Alpine Learning Group, and Cindy Oliver Wellekens, B.A., parent.
This workshop will explore ways to ensure the safety of children across settings such as the home, community and during vacations. No prerequisites are required for this workshop and both parents and educators will learn steps to take to keep children safe. Videos will be incorporated to demonstrate children learning safety skills.
For all ages at a basic level.
22. Preparing Students with Learning Disabilities for Post-Secondary Options: What Happened to My IEP?
Presented by Vincent Varrassi, MA, LDT-C, Fairleigh Dickinson University.
Students and parents often are surprised to find that the legislation that once provided them with IEPs, accommodations, course waivers, etc. is no longer applicable after high school graduation. This presentation will provide parents, students and others with information on life after high school for students with disabilities who had been receiving services via IDEA or Section 504. This workshop will address preparation of the student for the college option, college programs for students with disabilities, Section 504 at the post-secondary level and the need for students to understand their disability and become self-advocates.


Session C, 3:30 p.m - 5:00 p.m.


For all ages at an intermediate level, based on ABA and offering CEUs.
23. Relationship Development Intervention®: A Review of the Research
Presented by Suzanne Letso, M.A., BCBA, Connecticut Center for Child Development, Inc., and Thomas Zane, Ph.D., BCBA, The Sage Colleges.
This presentation will evaluate the extent to which the Relationship Development Intervention® (RDI®) program, a relatively new treatment for ASDs, is supported by research and meets the criteria of best practice.  In addition, the RDI® Certification process and implications for utilization of RDI® either instead of, or in conjunction with, Applied Behavior Analysis instructional strategies, will be discussed.  This workshop is not a "how-to" session on RDI®. While this workshop is designed for behavior analysts, other professionals and family members are likely to benefit from the content.
For all ages at an advanced level, based on ABA and offering CEUs.
24. Teaching Intraverbal Categorization and Advanced Language to Children with Autism
Presented by Rachael Sautter, Ph.D., BCBA, and Melissa Fisher, M.S.Ed., BCBA, Y.A.L.E. School Southeast.
This workshop will provide information on effective teaching of intraverbals. Emphasis will be placed on a literature review, two studies on categorization and a discussion on selecting intraverbal targets that more closely approximate typical language development. While this workshop is designed for behavior analysts, other professionals and family members are likely to benefit from the content.
For ages 6 to 12 years at an intermediate level, based on ABA and offering CEUs.
25. Effective Small Group Instruction
Presented by Tina Zorrilla Rivera, M.Ed., BCaBA, May Beaubrun, M.Ed., Erica Yarosis, B.A., and Karitssa Fernandez, M.Ed., BCBA, The Douglass Developmental Disabilities Center.
This presentation will discuss the benefits of providing opportunities for small group instruction for academic skill acquision. Various considerations when developing a small group lesson such as group composition, instructional strategies, targeted behavior and data collection will be discussed with video, outlines and sample lesson plans provided. While this workshop is designed for behavior analysts, other professionals and family members are likely to benefit from the content.
For all ages at an intermediate level based on ABA.
26. Advancing Our Knowledge of the Causes of Autism: An Overview of Genetic Discoveries and Current Research
Presented by Roderick A. Corriveau, Ph.D., and Michael Christman, Ph.D., The Coriell Institute.
The genetic basis of autism, at present not well understood, should provide critical insight needed for improved treatment starting at the earliest possible age. This workshop will provide a basic overview of genetics and specific candidate genes indicated in autism research. Presenters will describe current large-scale research initiatives and opportunities to participate in the discovery of the genetic underpinnings of autism.
For all ages at a basic level.
27. Public High School Programs for Students with Autism: Early Lessons in Program Development and Implementation
Presented by Irene Cook, M.Ed., Pompton Lakes, Ringwood and Lakeland Public School Districts, Judith Filippini, M.A.,Gregory Zaleski, B.A., Lakeland Educational Autism Resource Network, and Megan Bernard, M.Ed., BCBA.
This panel discussion will examine early lessons learned by one public school district in developing and implementing its high school program for students with autism.  Factors include: vision; resources; family involvement; program characteristics; effective instructional methods; collaboration; program support; and evaluation.
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28. Dads' Support Forum
Facilitated by Daniel Baker, Ph.D., and Philip Smith, Ph.D., The Elizabeth M. Boggs Center on Developmental Disabilities, UMDNJ.
Parenting children and adults with autism brings many joys and challenges. This open forum will provide fathers with an opportunity to share experiences and explore everyday challenges.
For all ages at a basic level.
29. Moms' Support Forum
Facilitated by Michele Havens, Ed.D., Imagine Academy.
Parenting children and adults with autism brings many joys and challenges. This open forum will provide mothers with an opportunity to share experiences and explore everyday challenges.
For all ages at a basic level based on ABA.
30. An Introduction to Functional Behavior Assessment and Behavior Intervention Plans: What Are They? Why Bother? How To Do It?
Presented by Steven B. Gordon, Ph.D., ABPP, Behavior Therapy Associates, P.A.
When addressing mild to severe challenging behaviors in individuals with ASDs, functional behavior assessments and behavior intervention plans often are complex. This workshop will address the linkage between functional behavior assessment and development of the behavior intervention plan. Particular attention will be paid to making challenging behavior irrelevant, inefficient and ineffective.
For ages birth to 12 years at a basic level and based on ABA.
31. Effective Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Strategies for Families
Presented by Nina Finkler, M.Ed., LDT/C, BCBA, Courtney Guadagno, M.Ed., both of Eden Family of Services, and Ira Fingles, J.D., Hinkle, Fingles & Prior.
These data-based strategies have helped many families address issues such as toileting, feeding, sleeping and community outings. A brief discussion of legal avenues to access assistance for home issues also will be provided. This workshop will provide parents with useable techniques to effectively address areas of home life that often are problematic.
For ages 13 years to adulthood at a basic level.
32. Thoughtful Discussion on Housing in New Jersey
Presented By Timothy Doherty, Project Freedom, Thomas McCool, Ed.D., Eden Family of Services, Pamela S. McCrory, LSW, MPH, NJ Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency, and Cathy Chin, Alman Group.
This workshop will be a  panel discussion on current housing resources in New Jersey and planning for the future.


Issues in Autism: Saturday, May 17



Session D, 9:00 a.m - 10:30 a.m.


For all ages at an intermediate level, based on ABA and offering CEUs.
33. Collaborating with Ancillary Therapies to Provide Effective Services
Presented by Cathleen Albertson, M.A., BCBA, and Jennifer Copeland, M.S., BCBA, Melmark.
Quality programming frequently requires that behavior analysts work within interdisciplinary teams, which are likely to present different approaches. This workshop will explore roadblocks to, and strategies to improve, effective communication among disciplines. Several interventions highlighting these strategies will be presented. While this workshop is designed for behavior analysts, other professionals and family members are likely to benefit from the content.
For all ages at an intermediate level, based on ABA and offering CEUs.
34. An Introduction to Fluency-Based Instruction
Presented by Marlene Cohen, Ed.D., BCBA, and Donna L. Sloan, M.A., BCBA, The Douglass Developmental Disabilities Center.
The workshop attendee will leave with the answers to the following questions: What is fluency-based instruction? What are the benefits of fluency-based instruction as compared to other teaching methods? What is the terminology used in fluency-based instruction?  What are the components of fluency-based instruction? What are some tips for practical implementation of fluency-based instruction? A basic understanding of the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis is recommended. While this workshop is designed for behavior analysts, other professionals and family members are likely to benefit from the content.
For all ages at an intermediate level, based on ABA and offering CEUs.
35. Increasing Independence Through Effective Toilet Training: Behaviorally-Based Strategies, Part 1
Presented by Frank Cicero, M.S., BCBA, Eden II Programs.
This two-part workshop will explore a range of assessment procedures and behavioral techniques for increasing independent toileting in individuals on the autism spectrum. Part I will place emphasis on urination training, from beginning to end, including requesting scheduled toileting and generalization. While this workshop is designed for behavior analysts, other professionals and family members are likely to benefit from the content. (Part II is workshop number 42.)
For all ages at a basic level, based on ABA.
36. An Overview of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Part 1
Presented by Laura Kenneally, Ed.D., BCBA, Advance, Inc., Kathleen McCabe-Odri, Ed.D., Partners in Learning, and Lori Lorenzetti, B.A., Consultant, Advance, Inc.
Children with autism can present educators and caregivers with challenges that may limit the perspective others have of their potential to learn. This workshop offers problem-solving approaches through practical, hands-on activities, encouraging a positive outlook and increased opportunities for each learner by explaining and illustrating the basics of ABA. Part 1 will focus on tools to teach new skills. (Part II is workshop number 44.)
For all ages at a basic level, based on ABA.
37. Parent Professional Collaboration: Toward Quality Improvement
Presented by Randy Horowitz, M.S.Ed., S.A.S., Eden II Programs.
Currently, many states are producing best practice guidelines for educating children with autism. Family involvement, support and collaboration are commonly included as features of effective, quality programs. This presentation will describe various mandated and non-mandated practices of collaboration between parents and professionals. The efficacy of a school-based Parent Professional Quality Improvement Team to enhance communication for school staff and parents will be described in detail.
For all ages at a basic level.
38. Grandparents' Support Forum
Facilitated by Michele Havens, Ed.D., Imagine Academy.
Issues related to being the grandparent of a child with autism and concerns related to supporting your own daughter or son as they struggle to conquer obstacles will be addressed, as will the many demands of caring for a child with autism. There will be a discussion period during which grandparents will be encouraged to explore their unique role and contribution.
For adults at a basic level.
39. We Need Lifespan Services! Parents of Adults with Autism Speak Out
Presented by David L. Holmes, Ed.D., Lifespan Services, LLC, Elaine Buchsbaum, M.L.S., Norman Greenberg, Barbara Greenberg and Kathleen Moore, parents.
This panel will address the need for entitlements for adults with autism that parallel the supports affirmed in IDEA. They will be calling for what is only FAIR (Free and Appropriate Individual Resources) in order for their adult children to live the American dream.
For ages birth to 17 years at an intermediate level based on ABA.
40. Incorporating Multiple Methods to Develop and Generalize Social Skills for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders
Presented by Michael Selbst, Ph.D., Behavior Therapy Associates, P.A.
This workshop will emphasize multiple methods to develop and generalize social-behavioral and problem-solving skills across environments, including user-friendly formal and informal social skills interventions, incorporating typically-developing children, example forms to monitor progress and strategies to promote home-school collaboration.
For all ages at a basic level.
41. Sibling Stories: The Next Generation
Presented by Ellen Schisler, COSAC, and other sibling panelists to be announced.
Targeted toward parents, this presentation will consist of a panel of adult siblings who will offer their perspectives on growing up with a sibling with autism and share insights into how their lives were impacted. Topics will include how their family dynamics have affected their peer relationships, guardianship and life choices. Panelists will share reflections on specific turning points and offer advice for handling difficult situations.


Session E, 10:45 a.m - 12:15 p.m.


Fore all ages at an intermediate level based on ABA and offering CEUs.
42. Increasing Independence Through Effective Toilet Training: Behaviorally-Based Strategies, Part II
Presented by Frank Cicero, Ph.D., BCBA, Eden II Programs.
This two-part workshop will present a range of assessment procedures and behavioral techniques for increasing independent toileting in individuals on the autism spectrum. Part II will focus on the assessment and treatment of bowel training and overnight toilet training. Time will permit audience questions and answers. While this workshop is designed for behavior analysts, other professionals and family members are likely to benefit from the content.
For ages 6 12 years at an intermediate level based on ABA and offering CEUs.
43. Supporting Students with Autism in Public Schools: Thriving in Specials
Presented by Karen W. McMillan, M.Ed., BCBA, Amy Casciano, B.A., and Candace E. Kemmann, B.S., Bridewater-Raritan Regional School District.
This workshop will provide strategies for making self-contained art, music and physical education classes more productive learning experiences for students with autism.  Participants will be provided with specific examples of how special education teachers collaborated with specials teachers to modify curricula and incorporate principles of Applied Behavior Analysis into instruction to meet the individualized needs of their students.
For all ages at a basic level based on ABA.
44. An Overview of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Part II
Presented by Laura Kenneally, Ed.D., BCBA, Advance, Inc., Kathleen McCabe-Odri, Ed.D., Partners in Learning, and Lori Lorenzetti, B.A., Consultant, Advance, Inc.
Children with autism can present challenges to educators and caregivers that may limit the perspective others have of their potential to learn. This workshop offers problem-solving approaches through practical, hands-on activities, encouraging a positive outlook and increased opportunities for each learner by explaining and illustrating the basics of ABA. Part II will focus on tools to decrease challenging behavior.
For all ages at a basic level.
45. Estate and Financial Planning Fundamentals: Wills, Trusts and How to Fund Them, Part I
Presented by Herbert D. Hinkle, Esq., Hinkle, Fingles & Prior, and Vincent Scanelli, MSFS, CLTC, LUTCF, Allstate and parent.
Estate and financial planning is essential so that a family member on the autism spectrum can be protected in the future. Knowledge of programs, services and eligibility requirements is necessary to prepare a workable plan that does not lead to a loss of eligibility for key services. Financial planning is equally important to ensure estates and trusts are funded to the extent necessary for success. Charitable giving, a way of guaranteeing that providers will have a solid foundation in the future upon which to serve future generations, will be discussed. (Part II is workshop number 56.)
For all ages at an intermediate level based on ABA.
46. Functional Analysis of Behavior: Evaluating Behavior in School and Home Settings, Part I
Presented by Ryan Madigan and David Kieval, The Douglass Developmental Disabilities Center.
Geared toward professionals, this workshop will explain and illustrate the components of functional analysis and conceptualize its integration into diverse treatment settings. (Part II is workshop number 58.)
For ages 13 to adulthood at a basic level.
47. Obtaining Adults Services for Individuals with Autism, Part 1
Presented by S. Paul Prior, Esq., Hinkle, Fingles & Prior, and Leslie Long, COSAC.
This workshop will discuss methods of obtaining adult services for individuals with autism once educational entitlements end at age 21. Attendees will learn practical methods to avoid gaps in services and why advance planning is critical. Recent New Jersey Supreme Court developments and other emerging issues will be discussed. (Part II is workshop number 59.)
For all ages at a basic level.
48. Child Custody and Visitation Rights: When Autism is a Consideration
Presented by David L. Holmes, Ed.D., Lifespan Services, LLC, and Lawrence Jones, Esq.
This presentation will highlight the variables that must be addressed when custody and visitation issues arise during divorce proceedings for parents of children with autism. Suggestions to facilitate this process will be provided for parents and professionals.
For all ages at an intermediate level.
49. The Development of Speech: Research and Strategies
Presented by Joanne Gerenser, Ph.D., CCC-SLP, Eden II Programs.
A review of the most recently published literature relating to the development of speech will be discussed. Several possible factors that may affect the ability to develop functional speech will be reviewed. One of the most common reasons provided for speech deficits in learners with ASDs is that the child is “apraxic.” This workshop will provide an in-depth review of the apraxia literature. Strategies to promote speech and enhance speech intelligibility in these learners will be discussed.
For all ages at a basic level.
50. How to Travel in New Jersey if You Have a Disability
Presented by Steven R. Fittante, Middlesex County Department of Transportation and a representative from Access Link.
This presentation will overview local and statewide transportation resources for individuals with disabilities traveling within New Jersey.  Para-transit and Access Link will be discussed.
For ages 6 to 17 years at an intermediate level based on ABA.
51. Social Skills Groups: A Tool for Helping Students with Asperger's Disorder Learn Skills for the Social World
Presented by Bonnie Sebastian, Ed.D., and Jillian Senn, B.A., Egg Harbor Township School District.
This presentation will examine the use of social skills groups in public schools. Specifically developed for students with Asperger's Disorder, these groups are designed to teach new skills, practice skills in a safe and comfortable environment and then generalize them to the school, home and community.


Session F, 1:45p.m. - 3:15 p.m.


For all ages at an intermediate level based on ABA and offering CEUs.
52. An Overview of Effective Procedures in Addressing Sleep Disturbances
Presented by Leif Albright, M.A., BCBA, and Lauren Schnell, M.Ed., BCBA, Albright Consultation Services.
Sleep disturbances are a common difficulty in children with developmental disabilities.  Employed strategies need to be efficient while also adaptable to the home environment.  This workshop is a review of research-based procedures that have been found to effectively address sleeping problems.
For all ages at a basic level based on ABA and offering CEUs.
53. Social Stories: How to Write and Use Them to Address Social Skills of Individuals with Asperger's Disorder
Presented by Laura Roth, MSW, BCBA, Bridgewater Raritan Regional School District, and Candie Hengemuhle, M.A.
This workshop is geared toward parents, paraprofessionals and professionals who have little or no experience writing social stories and using rule cards, but who want to learn how and when to use these important interventions. A significant portion of the workshop will be devoted to hands-on activities and participants will produce a social story and rule card with guidance from the presenter. How to use role play to practice and shape the targeted social skill in the social story also will be demonstrated and discussed.
For ages birth to 12 years at a basic level based on ABA.
54. An Overview of Verbal Behavior Curriculum
Presented by Kimberly Vogt, M.A., BCBA, Gladys Williams, Ed.D., Consultant, and Heather Kinney, M.S.W., David Gregory School.
This presentation will teach participants how to define and analyze verbal operants and use several verbal behavior tactics in their classrooms, or with their children, to increase listener and speaker behaviors.
For all ages at an intermediate level based on ABA.
55. Fluency in Autism Spectrum Disorders: Rationales for Intervention
Presented by Dana Battaglia, M. Phil., CCC-SLP, Jan Downey, M.A., CCC-SLP, and Piera Interdonati, M.A., CCC-SLP, Eden II Programs.
The objective of incorporating fluency in academic curriculum is to specifically target response time of correct expressive verbal output. Strategies for enhancing vocabulary development and response fluency will be provided. Further, fluency incorporates the concepts of retention, endurance and application. How these clinical terms relate to direct therapeutic intervention will be discussed, in conjunction with specific clinical examples.
For all ages at a basic level.
56. Estate and Financial Planning Fundamentals: Wills, Trusts and How to Fund Them, Part II
Presented by Herbert D. Hinkle, Esq., Hinkle, Fingles & Prior, and Vincent Scanelli, MSFS, CLTC, LUTCF, Allstate and parent.
Estate and financial planning is essential so that a family member on the autism spectrum is protected in the future. Knowledge of programs, services and eligibility requirements is necessary to prepare a workable plan that does not lead to a loss of eligibility for key services. Financial planning is equally important to ensure estates and trusts are funded to the extent necessary for success. Charitable giving, a way of guaranteeing that providers will have a solid foundation in the future upon which to serve future generations, will be discussed.
For ages birth to 12 years at an intermediate level based on ABA.
57. Programming for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in the Public School: Intensive, Individualized and Inclusive
Presented by Bonnie Sebastian, Ed.D., Karen Picciotti, B.A., and Susann Hermes, M.A., Egg Harbor Township School District.
This presentation will explore how to design, set up and run an ABA-based autism/multiply disabled program in a public school. It will examine administrative issues such as staffing and cost effectiveness. It also will look at program design from self-contained to fully included, behavioral interventions, general challenges, effectiveness of the program and benefits for the students.
For all ages at an intermediate level based on ABA.
58. Working with Challenging Behavior: Designing Functional Intervention Strategies for Learners with Autism, Part II
Presented by Suzannah Ferraioli and Nathan Lambright, The Douglass Developmental Disabilities Center.
This workshop will consider the components of comprehensive behavioral interventions, including replacement skills, antecedent interventions, consequences and reinforcement systems.
For ages 13 through adulthood at a basic level.
59. Obtaining Adult Services for Individuals with Autism, Part II
Presented by S. Paul Prior, Esq., Hinkle, Fingles & Prior, and Leslie Long, COSAC.
This workshop will discuss methods of obtaining adult services for individuals with autism once educational entitlements end at age 21. Attendees will learn practical methods to avoid gaps in services and why advance planning is critical. Recent New Jersey Supreme Court developments and other emerging issues will be discussed.
For ages brith to 12 years at an advanced level.