Program Description: Clinicians are seeing an influx in late-diagnosed Autistic and AuDHD clients, with little or no training on how to support these individuals. Much of the outdated, mainstream understanding of Autism doesn’t apply, and taking a traditional psychotherapeutic approach can leave both client and clinician feeling frustrated. This program is designed to educate conscious clinicians on the nuances and evolving understanding of Autistic and AuDHD presentations, and how taking a neurodiversity-affirming approach can support the provision of impactful client care.

This program is eligible for 6.25 CE credits for LMHC's, LMFT's, and LICSW's. Cost: $200 per person.

Learning Objectives:

After completing the program, participants will be able to…

• Differentiate between a neurodiversity-affirming approach and a deficit-based approach to client care
• Identify and apply neurodiversity-affirming language and practices
• Recognize both stereotypical and non-stereotypical presentations of Autism in adults
• Describe some ways in which ADHD and Autism may present as co-occurring conditions
• Distinguish between outdated and emerging information on how Autism may present in their adult clients
• Identify risk factors impacting Autistic and AuDHD clients and how to offer support
• Develop a strengths-based and community-informed approach to working with Autistic and AuDHD clients

Meet your presenter.

Hi there! I'm Kristen.

I’m an Autistic & ADHD therapist with over 13 years of clinical experience. I’ve always had a deep passion for understanding, normalizing, and validating the broad spectrum of human experience. My information-seeking nature has lead me down many avenues of learning, both in formal settings and through my own lived experience. I’d love to be able to share what I’ve learned with you in support of more informed care for neurodivergent folks.

Kristen's education and relevant experience:

Education:

• Doctoral candidate pursuing a PhD in Clinical Psychology at Meridian University (current)
• Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study in Holistic Studies from Salve Regina University (2015)
•  Masters in Social Work (Clinical) from Rhode Island College (2009)
• Bachelor of Science in Business Administration & Marketing from Bryant University (2006)

Experience:

• Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in RI & MA with over 13 years of clinical experience
• Specialization in supporting Autistic individuals for over 7 years
• Lived experience as a member of the Late-Diagnosed AuDHD community
• Currently working on dissertation for doctoral program which focuses on Autism through a neurodiversity-affirming lens

Contact Information for Kristen:

Kristen Acciari, LICSW  |  The Holistic Heart, 659 Sandy Ln, Warwick, RI 02889  | 401-441-8449  | holisticheartri.com