Autism Resource Training Center
As a significant provider of services to individuals with developmental disabilities and behavioral health challenges, Jawonio recognizes that the co-occurrence of autism and psychiatric disabilities is a growing phenomenon in our community. We are also aware that this lifelong challenge for individuals, families, and the community, requires a continuum of services that will provide interventions beginning at the earliest stages.
The Autism Resource Training Center at Jawonio will serve as a hub for individuals and families throughout the Mid-Hudson Valley region. The Center will also provide the resources and expertise needed for community outreach and education.
Speakers
Daniel Moldovan: Disability Resource Coordinator
Kristin Finch LMHC: Supervisor of Behavior Specialists
Dr. Russell Tobe M.D: Director of Clinical Evaluation Center
Katherine Aquino-Melendez: Senior Attorney The Arkontaky Law Group
Farida Rodriguez: ASL Employment Counselor
Courtney Burnham: Supervisor of Vocational & Placement Services
Ritza Santiago Ed.D: Director of Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program
Robert Sbordone MSOL: Director of Workforce Development
Consuelo Senior, LMSW: CSE Assistant Director YAI Knowledge
Tatyana Kochergina: E-500 RYT Founder and President of Balance with TK
2024 ARTC PRESENTATIONS
Pathway to Employment – Build Your Dream Team
Daniel Maldovan: Rockland County Disability Coordinator
11/20/2024 @ 7pm | Audience: All
Join Daniel Moldovan, New York Systems Change and Inclusive Opportunities Network (NY SCION) Disability Resource Coordinator for Rockland County, in a discussion about ‘Building Your Dream Team’ to identify necessary steps and organizations in your area to assist you in reaching your goals. Topics to be discussed: utilizing online and local resources available in the community, an overview of Social Security Administration work incentives helping beneficiaries return to work, and successful strategies for carving your pathway to employment.
VIDEO COMING SOON
Behavioral Support
Kristin Finch, LMHC: Supervisor, Behavior Specialists
11/20/2024 @ 7pm | Audience: All
Behavioral Support focuses on utilizing the most proactive interventions to minimize the risk of crisis scenarios and helpful techniques to de-escalate situations. The primary goal of Behavior Support is to assist individuals back to self control to encourage community inclusion and promote independence through skill building and emotional regulation.
VIDEO COMING SOON
Adapting the Environment
Kristin Finch, LMHC: Supervisor, Behavior Specialists
11/20/2024 @ 7pm | Audience: All
How are our homes and social spaces supportive of individuals with sensory processing needs? An individual’s environment can contribute to behavioral concerns that may require accommodations. By identifying potential triggers within the environment, appropriate modifications can be made to ensure a safe, soothing environment for someone on the Autism Spectrum. Rights Restrictions are an alternative method to help support individuals with challenging behaviors that pose a risk the to health & safety of themselves or others.
VIDEO COMING SOON
Estate Planning: Planning for Who and What
Katherine Aquino-Melendez: Senior Attorney, The Arkontaky Law Group
11/20/2024 @ 7pm | Audience: All
Presenting the importance of planning for your family and mostly your family members with special needs and/or disabilities. It is imperative to understand the significance of planning for the future and also understanding what mechanisms exist for planning. A lot of times we overlook the planning aspect, but it is extremely important and essential to protect your children and/or family members with special needs.
VIDEO COMING SOON
Unlocking Expression: The Impact of American Sign Language on Non-Verbal Communication in Autism and Speech Disorders
Farida Rodriguez: Counselor, ASL Employment ; Courtney Burnham: Supervisor, Vocational & Placement Services
11/20/2024 @ 7pm | Audience: All
American Sign Language (ASL) is a visual-gestural language used by individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, as well as by non-verbal individuals with conditions like autism or speech disorders. It provides a structured and visual means of communication, which can be easier for some individuals with autism to understand compared to spoken language. ASL relies on handshapes, movements, and facial expressions to convey meaning, offering a more accessible, concrete and empowering way for non-verbal individuals to communicate their thoughts, feelings, and needs effectively, and to better interpret and express emotions and ideas.
VIDEO COMING SOON
Advances in Treatment for Autism Spectrum Disorders
Dr. Tobe Russell, M.D.: Director, Clinical Evaluation Center
11/20/2024 @ 7pm | Audience: All
Dr. Tobe is a board-certified adult and child and adolescent psychiatrist. He is Director of the Clinical Evaluation Center at the Nathan Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research where he works with a multidisciplinary team of psychologists, social workers, psychiatric nurses, clinical evaluators, and research support assistants to study brain development and Autism Spectrum Disorders. Dr. Tobe will discuss advances in treatments for Autism Spectrum Disorders. Specifically, Dr. Tobe will update on results of recent multisite clinical trials and discuss obstacles in developing therapeutics in autism.
VIDEO COMING SOON
What is Sexuality for People on the Autism Spectrum?
Consuelo Senior, LMSW: CSE Assistant Director, YAI Knowledge
11/20/2024 @ 7pm | Audience: All
There are a lot of myths and misconceptions about people with Autism around sexuality. Attend this session and get your questions answered.
VIDEO COMING SOON
How Can the Consumer Directed Personal Assistant Program (CDPAP) Work With You?
Ritza Santiago, Ed.D.: Director, Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program
11/20/2024 @ 7pm | Audience: All
CDPAP helps people with special needs, receive care in their home setting with Personal Assistants (PAs) close to them: family, friends, neighbors, anyone they choose. PAs also get paid to care for their loved ones. This segment will cover the basics and provide information on the program and its eligibility.
VIDEO COMING SOON
Financial Empowerment: Small Steps for Big Results
Robert Sbardone, MSOL: Director, Workforce Development
11/20/2024 @ 7pm | Audience: All
People with disabilities need the same financial knowledge and skills as those without disabilities – to manage money, create a spending plan, effectively use banks, reduce debt, and use credit wisely. This session provides tips and tools to help build or expand financial literacy that is inclusive of people with disabilities.
VIDEO COMING SOON
Helping People with Autism to Build Healthy Relationships
Consuelo Senior, LMSW: CSE Assistant Director, YAI Knowledge
11/20/2024 @ 7pm | Audience: All
Relationships are the basis for life. As we grow and develop, we have different needs for different types of relationships. This session will teach about relationships for people with Autism and how to support them.
VIDEO COMING SOON
Mindfulness Interventions for Autistic Children
Tatyana Kochergina, E-500 RYT: Founder and President of Balance with TK
11/20/2024 @ 7pm | Audience: All
Yoga provides a calming atmosphere, allowing children to slow down. Breathing strategies help reduce irritability, regular heart rates and release emotions. Mindful breathwork also serves as a self-soothing tool and potential replacement behavior for other obsessive, aggressive or self-stimulatory behaviors.
VIDEO COMING SOON
2023 ARTC PRESENTATIONS
Pragmatic Language
Jamila Astwood
11/20/2024 @ 7pm | Audience: All
Overview of how communication coaching supports to assist individuals in their understanding of implicit versus explicit rules, perspective-taking and turn-taking in speaking, the use of small-talk, conventional gestures, and emotional expression. Communication coaching employs techniques to compensate for inflexible thinking, slower-working memory, and impulse control, as well as how to build meaningful relationships.
WATCH FULL VIDEO NOW
Autism Friendly Travel
Dawn M. Barclay: Family Travel / Special Needs Travel Contributing Editor
11/20/2024 @ 7pm | Audience: All
Author Dawn Barclay will explore how to improve travel and vacation preparation with individuals with Autism. This presentation will focus on creating a child-centric vacation, evaluating Autism friendly destinations & venues, Certified Autism Travel Professional designation, vacation suggestions. Dawn offers tips to families and caregivers on how to utilize social stories and predictability to prepare for travel experiences.
WATCH FULL VIDEO NOW
Special Capacity Assessment + Social Skills and Development
Dr. Arnie Cabasso & Tobi Mkinde, MS Behavior Specialist
11/20/2024 @ 7pm | Audience: All
Sexual Capacity Assessment: All people are entitled to sexual expression, including those with developmental disabilities, like ASD. But we need to assess whether an individual can stay safe from disease, pregnancy, or exploitation. We review, in a standardized format, anatomy, intimacy, pregnancy, disease, birth control, infant and baby care, and appropriate boundaries.
Social Skills and Development: We will cover a variety of social skills training that will include public vs private, boundaries, sexual development, consent, and social media. The purpose is to introduce you to effective appropriate interpersonal skills.
WATCH FULL VIDEO NOW
Benefits Advisement
Scott Barber-Weiser
11/20/2024 @ 7pm | Audience: All
This presentation will give a better understanding of the process of applying for SSI SSDI Medicaid and Medicare as well as how benefits are affected by work income and other resources.
WATCH FULL VIDEO NOW
Estate Planning / Guardianship
Lauren Eisen, ESQ
11/20/2024 @ 7pm | Audience: All
Your Child’s Planning:
- What to think about before your child turns 18.
- Is guardianship appropriate?
- If not, what documents should your adult child have after turning 18?
- Is he/she applying for ssi?
- If working, should he/she use an able account?
- What is an able account?
Your Planning:
- How can you provide for your child when you are gone and make sure they maintain all their government benefits?
- Discuss basics of special needs trust and benefit of a standalone trust instead of testamentary and using life insurance to fund.
- Back up trustees and guardians, how to choose their importance, and corporate trustees familiar with snt’s.
- Letter of Intent.
WATCH FULL VIDEO NOW
Communication for Non-Verbal People
Stacey Kantrowitz
11/20/2024 @ 7pm | Audience: All
Overview and contrast of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (ACC) Systems, including the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) and American Sign Language (ASL). ACC Systems help: Develop intentional communication. Reduce negative or challenging behaviors caused by frustration. Increase opportunities for interaction and learning. Develop social skills and the ability to build meaningful relationships. Improve spoken language skills.
WATCH FULL VIDEO NOW
Recent Advance in Diagnosis and Treatment
Dr. Russell Tobe
11/20/2024 @ 7pm | Audience: All
Dr. Tobe is a board-certified adult and child and adolescent psychiatrist. He is Director of the Clinical Evaluation Center at the Nathan Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research where he works with a multidisciplinary team of psychologists, social workers, psychiatric nurses, clinical evaluators, and research support assistants to study brain development and autism spectrum disorders. Dr. Tobe will discuss advances in the diagnosis of and treatments for autism spectrum disorders. Specifically, Dr. Tobe will review efforts to better detect symptom response in clinical trials while presenting novel medication approaches currently under investigation that modulate ‘social’ hormones, the gut microbiome, and the endocannabinoid system.
WATCH FULL VIDEO NOW
Future Planning
Sara Trowers, Carol St. John, Stacey Kantrowitz and Mitch Spiegel
11/20/2024 @ 7pm | Audience: All
Overview of Day Habilitation Services:
Day Habilitation Without Walls, Positive Adult Community Experience (PACE) Program, Seniors Program, Sunrise Court, Nyack Studio Arts, Lifelong Experiences and Academic Program (LEAP), After the Day Respite Services, Pre-Vocational Work Program, and all related eligibility. Overview of recreational activities
Success Story: Anthony Mundy
Overview of Community Living Services:
Success Story: The Masons
Overview of Community Employment Services:
Vocational Assessments, Job Exploration Counseling, Work Readiness Training, Self-Advocacy, Community-Based Assessments, Work-Based Learning Experience, Counseling on Post-Secondary Educational Options, Wage- Reimbursed Internships, Employment Training Program, Job Development Services, Long-Term Supported Employment Services, Educational Coaching, Tutoring, Travel Training, Benefits, Advisement, Communication Coaching Supports (Pragmatic Language Therapy), and all related eligibility.
Success Story: Thomas Nordstrom
Overview of Article 16 Clinic Services:
Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Social Work, and all related eligibility.
WATCH FULL VIDEO NOW
Behavior Planning
Dr. Arnie Cabasso and Chuck Mastro
11/20/2024 @ 7pm | Audience: All
We discuss when a behavioral intervention is called for, the A*B*C Chart, target behaviors, the functional analysis, contextual factors, pro-active strategies, teaching alternative behaviors, re-active strategies, reinforcers, de-escalation techniques, and data collection.
WATCH FULL VIDEO NOW
Health and Wellness for Individuals with Autism
Sharon O’Dowd, RN and Tobi Makinde, MS Senior Behavior Specialist
11/20/2024 @ 7pm | Audience: All
In our presentation, we will discuss the benefits and the impact a healthy lifestyle can produce in the lives of individuals with Autism. We will touch on topics such as nutrition, the impact of food on the body, the benefits of routines and rules, and finally how physical activity and exercise can develop and enhance your child’s life not only physically but socially.
WATCH FULL VIDEO NOW
Understanding the Diagnosis
Dr. Arnie Cabasso and Kristin Kiggins, MS Supervisor of Behavior Specialist
11/20/2024 @ 7pm | Audience: All
Understanding the Diagnosis will go in-depth on understanding intellectual disabilities, more specifically autism spectrum disorder. Identifying what might we expect will assist us in how to support individuals with behaviors and work towards establishing a better quality of life.
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Rehab and Recovery for Behavioral Changes
Dr. Joseph Zwieg / Peers
11/20/2024 @ 7pm | Audience: All
ASD is not a static state for those on the spectrum. Change and growth is a realistic and achievable goal and as the only PROS (Personalized Recovery Oriented Service) Program in New York State that is authorized to provide these recovery services to those whose primary challenge is ASD, Jawonio PROmiSe has been involved in this innovation for several years. Our staff and participants will describe how a recovery-oriented program can contribute to the achievement of life goals identified by our members.
WATCH FULL VIDEO NOW
Partnering with Your School District to Support Your Child’s Needs & Advocacy Entitlements
Dr. Heidi McCarthy & Jane Mullin, LCSW-R
11/20/2024 @ 7pm | Audience: All
WATCH FULL VIDEO NOW
First Responders / Community Organization
Jane Mullin, LCSW-R and Kristin Kiggins, M.S., Jon Ginsburg, Incident Manager
11/20/2024 @ 7pm | Audience: All
WATCH FULL VIDEO NOW
Estate Planning – “Planning for Who and What?”
Katherine Aquino-Melendez: Senior Attorney The Arkontaky Law Group
9/11/2024 @ 7pm | Audience: All
Katherine Aquino-Melendez, Senior Attorney at the Arkontaky Law Group will present on the importance of planning for your family and mostly your family members with special needs and/or disabilities. It is imperative to understand the significance of planning for the future and also understanding what mechanisms exist for planning. A lot of times we overlook the planning aspect, but it is extremely important and essential to protect your children and/or family members with special needs.
Unlocking Expression: The Impact of American Sign Language on Non-Verbal Communication in Autism and Speech Disorders
Farida Rodriguez: ASL Employment Counselor
Courtney Burnham: Supervisor of Vocational & Placement Services
9/18/2024 @ 7pm | Audience: All
American Sign Language (ASL) is a visual-gestural language used by individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, as well as by non-verbal individuals with conditions like autism or speech disorders. It provides a structured and visual means of communication, which can be easier for some individuals with autism to understand compared to spoken language. ASL relies on handshapes, movements, and facial expressions to convey meaning, offering a more accessible, concrete and empowering way for non-verbal individuals to communicate their thoughts, feelings, and needs effectively, and to better interpret and express emotions and ideas.
Advances in Treatment for Autism Spectrum Disorders
Dr. Russell Tobe M.D: Director of Clinical Evaluation Center
10/9/2024 @ 7pm | Audience: All
Dr. Tobe is a board-certified adult and child and adolescent psychiatrist. He is Director of the Clinical Evaluation Center at the Nathan Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research where he works with a multidisciplinary team of psychologists, social workers, psychiatric nurses, clinical evaluators, and research support assistants to study brain development and Autism Spectrum Disorders. Dr. Tobe will discuss advances in treatments for Autism Spectrum Disorders. Specifically, Dr. Tobe will update on results of recent multisite clinical trials and discuss obstacles in developing therapeutics in autism.
What is Sexuality for People on the Autism Spectrum?
Consuelo Senior LMSW: CSE Assistant Director of YAI Knowledge
10/16/2024 @ 7pm | Audience: All
There are a lot of myths and misconceptions about people with Autism around sexuality. Attend this session and get your questions answered.
How can the Consumer Directed Personal Assistant Program (CDPAP) work with you?
Ritza Santiago Ed.D: Director of Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program
10/30/2024 @ 7pm | Audience: All
CDPAP helps people with special needs, receive care in their home setting with Personal Assistants (PAs) close to them: family, friends, neighbors, anyone they choose. PAs also get paid to care for their loved ones. This segment will cover the basics and provide information on the program and its eligibility.
Financial Empowerment: Small Steps for Big Results
Robert Sbardone, MSOL: Director of Workforce Development
11/6/2024 @ 7pm | Audience: All
People with disabilities need the same financial knowledge and skills as those without disabilities – to manage money, create a spending plan, effectively use banks, reduce debt, and use credit wisely. This session provides tips and tools to help build or expand financial literacy that is inclusive of people with disabilities.
Helping People with Autism to Build Healthy Relationships
Consuelo Senior LMSW: CSE Assistant Director of YAI Knowledge
11/13/2024 @ 7pm | Audience: Young Adults
CDPAP helps people with special needs, receive care in their home setting with Personal Assistants (PAs) close to them:family, friends, neighbors, anyone they choose. PAs also get paid to care for their loved ones. This segment will cover the basics and provide information on the program and its eligibility.
Advocacy
Diana Hess: Chief Communications & Developmental Director
11/20/2024 @ 7pm | Audience: All
Advocacy is a critical effort for self advocates, families and staff to amplify their voices when we need change. Change can be affected in many ways and this session will discuss the various tools and opportunities to ensure that we are heard by our NYS elected officials.
Sign up: Financial Empowerment: Small Steps for Big Results
For more information, please contact:
Kristin Finch LMHC, Supervisor of Behavior Specialists
Kristin.Finch@jawonio.org
845.708.2000 x8334
