Why this is important: The prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), also known as Asperger’s, has been an increasingly discussed topic in recent years. Case managers should have an awareness of how neurodiversity may present in students and learn how to more effectively communicate with students who experience the world differently.
 
Description:This micro-learning course provides a timely overview of how students with ASD behave and communicate in an educational setting and the importance of addressing this neurodiversity from an open and respectful stance. This research-based program will provide clear and practical advice regarding how to best approach and communicate with students who have difference preferences in terms of speech, noise, touch, and interaction styles, allowing case management staff to be more effective in their communication and avoid common mistakes. A review of common myths related to ASD will be covered as will how working with a multidisciplinary behavioral intervention team may help reduce conflict and identify innovative ways to address these behaviors in a campus setting.
 
Case managers will be able to:
Understand what is meant by ASD and Asperger’s and how these behaviors occur on a range (or spectrum), meaning everyone who has ASD presents differently
Describe common behaviors of autistic individuals related to touch, loud noises, idiosyncratic interests, and unique communication styles
Aviod labeling or stigmatizing those with ASD based on stereotypes and misconceptions
Talk with others about communication preferences and lean into the concept that accommodating differences can benefit those in the community
 
This course can also be purchased as part of the Mental Health Bundle.
 
Please note, these trainings are designed for counselors working on a college campus providing crisis support and guidance to students. They are often referred to as non-clinical counselors or counselors who work under FERPA rather than state confidently laws.