Oakland University - News Archive - Asperger's Syndrome and Implications for Counseling Professionals

Asperger's Syndrome and Implications for Counseling Professionals
Friday - September 24, 2010

Overview

Individuals with Asperger's Syndrome (AS) understand and respond to the world in a different way. This workshop presents an overview of Asperger's Syndrome and identifies successful strategies that can be used by counselors, social workers, and educators to establish a working relationship, promote student self-esteem and reduce student stress. Participants will leave with the critical ingredients necessary to support the middle school or high school student with AS.

Individuals with Asperger's Syndrome (AS) understand and respond to the world in a different way. This workshop presents an overview of Asperger's Syndrome and identifies successful strategies that can be used by counselors, social workers, and educators to establish a working relationship, promote student self-esteem and reduce student stress.

Participants will leave with the critical ingredients necessary to support the middle school or high school student with AS.

Who Should Attend
Professionals and graduate students in Counseling and Education

Key Topics

Characteristics and learning styles of students with AS

Relationship Dynamics

The culture of Asperger's Syndrome

Personal Stressors for the Adolescent with AS

Educational strategies and resources

Program Instructors

Janet E. Graetz, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor at Oakland University in the Department of Human Development and Child Studies. For the past 25 years, her life has revolved around individuals with autism spectrum disorders. Graetz joined Oakland University in 2003 and teaches courses in autism that focus on behavioral issues, collaboration and consultation, and language. Research interests include the topic of spirituality and Asperger's Syndrome, and quality-of-life issues for adolescents and adults with autism spectrum disorders. She has presented nationally on topics that include the use of visuals for individuals with autism spectrum disorders and quality of life for individuals with disabilities. In 2008, she was awarded a grant from the Organization for Autism Research (OAR) to conduct a study that examined the lives of college students with Asperger Syndrome at OU. Kim Spampinato, MA, LPC, NCC, is is Licensed Professional Counselor and founder of Generations Counseling Center, LLC. She served as the Clinical Counselor and Autism Program Developer for the School of Education and Human Services Counseling Center at Oakland University. With several years of experience in private practice, administration, advising, and training, she has presented on a variety of topics from business communication to career counseling. Clients include the U.S. Department of Transportation, MCI, ABC Warehouse, Weight Watchers, AAA, Farmer Jack and Verizon Wireless. Spampinato earned a M.A. in Counseling and B.A. in Criminal Justice.

Janet E. Graetz, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor at Oakland University in the Department of Human Development and Child Studies. For the past 25 years, her life has revolved around individuals with autism spectrum disorders.

Graetz joined Oakland University in 2003 and teaches courses in autism that focus on behavioral issues, collaboration and consultation, and language. Research interests include the topic of spirituality and Asperger's Syndrome, and quality-of-life issues for adolescents and adults with autism spectrum disorders.

She has presented nationally on topics that include the use of visuals for individuals with autism spectrum disorders and quality of life for individuals with disabilities. In 2008, she was awarded a grant from the Organization for Autism Research (OAR) to conduct a study that examined the lives of college students with Asperger Syndrome at OU.

Kim Spampinato, MA, LPC, NCC, is is Licensed Professional Counselor and founder of Generations Counseling Center, LLC. She served as the Clinical Counselor and Autism Program Developer for the School of Education and Human Services Counseling Center at Oakland University.

With several years of experience in private practice, administration, advising, and training, she has presented on a variety of topics from business communication to career counseling. Clients include the U.S. Department of Transportation, MCI, ABC Warehouse, Weight Watchers, AAA, Farmer Jack and Verizon Wireless. Spampinato earned a M.A. in Counseling and B.A. in Criminal Justice.

Guest Presentation

Nick Dubin, PhD, author of Asperger Syndrome and Anxiety: A Guide to Successful Stress Management and Asperger Syndrome and Bullying: Strategies and Solutions

Brochure

Asperger's Syndrome and Implications for Counseling Professionals [PDF]

Enroll early and save! Register online through August 24, 2010 to receive the discounted rate.

For more information
Contact Professional Development

School of Education and Human Services (248) 370-3033, phone \| (248) 370-3137 fax E-mail: Professional Development or Contact Us / Request Information