Module 4: Communication Differences and mental health
Facilitator: Andy Song, PhD, BCBA, LMHCA – Kids and Family Counseling
4/28 12:30-1:30pm REGISTER HERE
5/1 3:30-4:30pm ZOOM LINK
Each session will be offered twice a week (Monday and Thursday) for two opportunities to attend the same training. Courses may be taken independently of the others and folks can register for one or many!
TARGET AUDIENCE
Therapist, Counselors, Peer Supports, BCBA, SLP, OT, RN/APP, Psychologist, Parents, Caregivers
TRAINING DESCRIPTION
This module addresses how communication differences in ASD affect emotional expression and mental health outcomes. Participants will learn to identify communication profiles common in autism, including non-speaking individuals and those using augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). The module will emphasize the risks of misinterpreting emotional distress as behavioral noncompliance and present supportive strategies for accurately identifying emotional needs. Case-based learning will support application of these strategies in clinical settings.
CONTENTS
Module 4: Communication Differences and mental health
1. Title Slide: Communication and Emotional Health
2. Common Communication Profiles in ASD
3. Challenges in Expressing Emotional Distress
4. Role of AAC and Visual Supports
5. Mental Health Symptoms Misinterpreted as Behavior
6. Intervention Approaches for Non-Speaking Individuals
7. Listening for Distress Without Words
8. Clinical Vignette and Practice Tips
LEARNING OUTCOMES
Participants will be able to recognize diverse communication profiles, describe how communication differences impact emotional expression, and implement strategies to identify mental health needs in minimally verbal or non-speaking clients.
