Tri-State Webinar Series: Hidden in Plain Sight: Autism in Girls

Webinar Description:

In this webinar, Janae Powell, speech-language pathologist and mom, will discuss autism in girls. Participants will gain insights into the core characteristics of autism and diagnosis, with a specific focus on how these traits present differently in girls. The core characteristics, in reference to the DSM-5, will be discussed, and how these characteristics may look in individuals are typically missed in the diagnostic process. Important topics such as Gestalt language processing, the pervasive drive for autonomy, interoception, and how masking/camouflaging may contribute to professionals misdiagnosing or mislabeling. Additionally, this session will delve into current research and evidence-based practices that support autistic girls, women, and individuals throughout their lives. 

After attending this webinar, participants will be able to:

• Identify differences in the presentation of core characteristics of autism in relation to the DSM-5
• Discuss how differences often look in young girls
• Discuss the basics of GLP, PDA, interoception, and masking
• Apply current research proponents and cautions, as well as other components of EBP, in application to supporting autistic people

Presenter Information:

Janae Powell, MS, CCC-SLP, is a speech-language pathologist, instructor, and clinical educator at Fort Hays State University. This is a new role, after serving 5 years in a special education cooperative setting in southwest Kansas, as well as providing part-time private services. Specialties in learning include supporting autistic people, childhood Apraxia of Speech, Gestalt language, and AAC. Janae is also a wife to Trever and mom to Austynn and Roan. Austynn is autistic and is her greatest teacher!