Back-to-School Playbook: Evidence-Based Strategies for Helping Neurodivergent Kids and Teens Succeed
August can be a stressful time for neurodivergent students and their families as they ready themselves for a new school year, but it is also an opportunity to create new habits and supports to help students thrive. This talk will cover how the COVID-19 pandemic affected learning for individuals with autism and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, and how students, parents, and teachers can work as a team to move forward with practical strategies for success. Topics will include helpful accommodations in Section 504 and Individualized Education Plans, evidence-based classroom strategies that promote engagement, and skills to enhance relationships for students with their parents, teachers, and peers. Information includes tailoring intervention to the student’s development level, from children in elementary school to teens transitioning to college. Throughout the 2 hour presentation, there will be space for questions and deeper discussion through attendee participation. There are no known risks to attendees or patients. As with all clinical work, attendees should be thoughtful about applying assessment strategies and obtain appropriate training and supervision.
At the conclusion of this presentation, attendees should be able to identify how ADHD and Autism affects school functioning and list practical strategies for parents, teachers, and students to enhance academic performance.
Neurodivergent individuals with intersectional identities (ethnic/racial minority groups, and individuals on the LGBTQA+ spectrum) have increased barriers to school functioning. This talk will address how interventions can support individuals from different populations.
Counselors routinely interact with patients with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Autism Spectrum Disorder. It is critical that they are able to support daily functioning and help coordinate care with parents and educators.
Laura Rowley, Ph.D., licensed clinical psychologist. Laura obtained her doctorate from Wayne State University. She completed her APA-accredited internship and postdoctoral fellowship at Primary Children’s Hospital. Laura is currently the Program Director for the Assessment and Testing Team at Utah Center for Evidence Based Treatment, where she specializes in testing services for neurodiverse children and adults.
Nick Schollars, PsyD., is a licensed clinical psychologist. Coming from Newberg, Oregon, he completed his doctorate at George Fox University and his APA Internship at Saint Elizabeths Hospital in Washington, DC. He recently moved to Salt Lake City to join the Utah Center for Evidence Based Treatment with a specialty in assessment and testing.
Register: jennifer.vangorp@ucebt.com
