Continuing Education Center

Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) who cause sexual harm present unique challenges that often go unaddressed by well-intentioned treatment providers and programs. This training, led by Dr. Kim Spence, a seasoned professional with 25 years of experience in this field, equips attendees with techniques to effectively support clients with ASD who have exhibited sexually harmful behavior.

Through case examples, the training emphasizes common vulnerabilities and co-morbid conditions experienced by clients with ASD, highlighting the intricate interplay between their neurodivergence and the manifestation of sexually harmful behavior. Attendees gain teaching methods that foster appropriate social interactions between clients with ASD and their peers, paving the way for positive behavior change.

Since 2014, the Impact of Race and Culture Assessment (IRCA) has been assisting Canadian courts in arriving at more just sentences for people of African descent. IRCAs are assessments that consider an individual’s experience with racism, discrimination, and cultural factors in the context of their offending behavior. By systematically gathering information on the historical and contemporary impact of race and culture, IRCAs provide a richer, multi-dimensional understanding of individuals that can inform more effective rehabilitation and reintegration strategies. They were originally designed to address “race blindness” in sentencing, which has resulted in the overrepresentation of Blacks in the carceral system—best viewed as a symptom of systemic racism. Since the introduction of IRCA, the implications of having culturally competent assessments at sentencing have been felt in other settings.

During the training, Mr. Wright explores the history and context behind the development of IRCAs and how they are being increasingly adopted by the criminal justice system. Through interactive discussion and case examples, participants gain practical knowledge on how to interpret and apply the information gathered through IRCAs to build cultural competence at both an individual and organizational level. Specific implications for culturally informed assessment and treatment of Black people who have committed sexual offenses are examined. The training also provides considerations on the DSM-5 Cultural Formulation Interview.

This is the third module in this mini course, which takes a deep dive into the heart of compassionate communication. Research has found that the way clients talk about change can be the best predictor of treatment outcomes. This module explores the often-subtle language that indicates a client’s growing readiness to undertake challenging changes.

This is the fourth module in this mini course, which takes a deep dive into the heart of compassionate communication. Motivational interviewing is an excellent way to connect with people on a deeper level, helping them to make positive changes while becoming a more compassionate and empathetic person yourself. This module focuses on critical questions that will help you refine your approach and make a lasting impact

There is growing recognition that many adults with a sexual attraction for children are motivated not to cause harm. Referred to as minor-attracted persons (MAPs), these individuals have not committed sexual offenses and the primary goal is to provide support to help them remain free of offending. Yet, these clients, and those who treat them, face the additional challenge of apprehension among lay persons and other professionals who do not understand the complexities of this issue, conflating these well-intentioned MAPs with people who have harmed. Implementing the right treatment approaches is crucial in safeguarding children and helping clients build better lives for themselves.

This training explores how stigma, social norms, moral panic, and sexual attraction act as barriers to those seeking help in preventing themselves from committing their first offense. Dr. Spooner provides a comprehensive understanding of minor-attracted people, as well as the inaccurate narratives about MAPs that result in strained relationships between providers and clients. Lastly, participants are encouraged to identify and reflect on their personal biases, explore effective approaches to meeting the needs of MAPs, and consider alternative approaches to current practices.

This training offers an in-depth exploration of Motivational Interviewing (MI) strategies for identifying and exploring client motivations that may not seem evident, particularly among those who seem resistant to treatment. Presenter David Prescott reviews four micro-skills and specific techniques involving scaling questions and options menus for engaging clients and focusing on personally meaningful and relevant goals. Some of these skills review a new examination; this includes differentiating between simple and complex affirmations. Prescott also reviews the less-obvious ways that clients indicate that they are considering making changes to their lives and offers skills for strengthening commitment to treatment goals.

By effectively applying these MI principles and techniques, clinicians can significantly enhance treatment outcomes and empower clients to make meaningful and lasting life changes.