Tri-State Webinar: Early Identification of Autism Spectrum Disorder – Part 2 of 2

Webinar Description:

This is part 2 of a 2 part series. In Part 1, participants will learn the importance of identifying autism symptoms in early childhood rather than adopting a “wait and see” approach. In Part 2, Dr. Hepburn will discuss key elements of an evaluation for autism spectrum disorder in young children.  She will compare the strengths and weaknesses of three evidence-based assessment tools and how family culture and language can affect the evaluation process. Additionally, Dr. Hepburn will demonstrate how to differentiate between autism spectrum disorder, lack of social experience, trauma, and attachment problems.

After attending this webinar participants will:

• Describe 5 key elements of an evaluation for ASD in young children
• Identify strengths and weaknesses of 3 evidence-based assessment tools for evaluating young children for ASD
• Recognize how family culture and language can affect the evaluation process
• Explain how to differentiate between ASD, lack of social experience, trauma, and attachment problems

Presenter Information:

Susan Hepburn is a Professor in the Department of Human Development and Family Studies at Colorado State University and a licensed clinical psychologist. She is actively engaged in teaching at the university and consulting in schools on educational identification and intervention for students with autism spectrum disorders. She is collaborating with community partners to establish a clinic on the CSU campus which will provide evaluations, consultation, and direct support to persons with ASD and their families.