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Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder Conference02:01PM / Friday, May 01, 2009
PITTSFIELD, Mass. – Hillcrest Educational Center’s series of workshops continues this month with a focus on understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder. “Spring Conference for the Berkshires” will take place on Thursday, May 21 at the Crowne Plaza in Pittsfield from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm. The 2008 conference was attended by 250 people.
The event is designed to educate and empower anyone about autism spectrum disorder and developmental disabilities. Parents, educators and the general public will have the unique opportunity to hear from several local experts on a wide range of topics relating to social awareness and understanding behavior issues.
Helen Bray-Garretson, Ph.D. is a recognized authority on Autism Spectrum Disorder and will be the featured keynote speaker. Bray-Garretson is a consulting psychologist in private practice and consultation work in school systems on assessment and behavior programs for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and high-risk behaviors.
Hillcrest President Gerard Burke said, “We are very proud to present a well-rounded conference this spring. We’ve taken into consideration the challenge on people and school districts meeting their over-stretched budgets and have lowered the cost of registration.” Registration is $65 per person or $50 per person when three or more from the same organization attend the conference.
Burke added, “One of the highlights of the program offered is called Spectrum Unplugged. A group of amazing, inspirational youth will share experiences of their lives and the strategies that helped them become the successful people they are today. It is sure to be poignant and powerful.”
Topics to be discussed will include:
* Community Resources for People with Autism
* Developing Social Awareness and Friendships for Youth with Autism Spectrum Disorders
* Sharing Life Experiences – Spectrum Unplugged
In the afternoon three breakout sessions offered will be covering:
* Understanding Sexual Behavior Issues of Individuals with ASD
* The View From Here: An Integrated Educational Program for Individuals with ASD
* Deep Pressure Stimulation: Working to Achieve Evidence-Based Practices and Products through Interdisciplinary Collaboration
The conference includes a field of seven qualified presenters specializing in working with individuals challenged by Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Those working in the field or family members of those affected by autism are encouraged to attend. Continuing Education Credits provided through Berkshire AHEC.
Contact Michele Morin at Hillcrest Educational Centers for more information about the conference by phone at 499-7924, ext 129 or mmorin@hillcresteducationalcenters.org. Conference information and registration is also available on line at www.hillcresteducationalcenters.org.
Hillcrest Educational Centers is a private not for profit organization providing treatment and special education services to children and adolescents with unique psychological and learning needs. Hillcrest operates the Housatonic Academy, Berkshire County's only therapeutic day school located in Pittsfield, as well as three residential treatment centers located in Lenox and Great Barrington. In addition, Hillcrest operates Hillcrest Dental Care, the largest provider or oral healthcare services to Mass Health recipients special needs patients. Administrative offices are located at 788 South Street, Pittsfield, MA 01201. More information is available at www.hillcresteducationalcenters.org. |
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