Evidence-Based Strategies for Treating Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder Who Sexually Harm
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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.
The training offers guidance on developing targeted intervention strategies tailored to the unique needs of these clients. Attendees acquire practical tools to effectively communicate their needs to professionals in the justice system, other treatment providers, and family members of these clients, thus ensuring a collaborative approach to supporting individuals with ASD who cause sexual harm.
By attending this training, professionals gain a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in working with this vulnerable population and become more equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the assessment and treatment of individuals with ASD, ultimately enhancing the quality of the care they receive.
1) Analyze peer-reviewed literature on the latest trends and insights into the interplay between ASD and sexually harmful behavior.
2) Identify several evidence-based, therapeutic intervention strategies recommended for individuals with ASD who engage in problematic sexual behaviors.
3) Summarize best practices for integrating the unique treatment needs of those with ASD into a treatment program designed for those who have committed sexual offenses.
4) List evidence-based, targeted interventions and supports developed to address the unique challenges faced by individuals with ASD who have caused sexual harm.
5) Discover proven methods for identifying and accessing qualified providers within specific geographical regions, fostering a collaborative network of expertise that ensures access to specialized interventions and support for individuals with ASD.
Audience
This training is for treatment providers and therapists working with individuals with ASD who have sexually offended. Professionals in the legal/justice system dealing with cases involving individuals with ASD who have committed sexual offenses and family members and caretakers supporting individuals with ASD who have caused harm will also benefit from this training.
Content Level
Disclosure
Continuing Education Approval
American Psychological Association (APA)
Safer Society Foundation, Inc. is approved by the American Psychological Association (APA) to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. Safer Society Foundation, Inc. maintains responsibility for this program and its content.
Who's Presenting
Kim Spence, PhD
Dr. Kim Spence is the Clinical Director of Autism Support Services for Specialized Treatment & Assessment Resources and has worked for the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD) at the University of Central Florida (UCF) since 1999. For the past 20 years she has lectured internationally regarding treatment supports, targeted therapeutic intervention, and the creation of specialized sexuality education programs for individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Dr. Spence began providing sexuality education training for parents, teachers, and care providers of individuals with ASD in 2000 and has offered numerous trainings focused on the creation of specialized educational, social, and behavioral interventions to support healthy sexual knowledge for individuals with ASD across the life-span. She has been training emergency responders, law enforcement personnel, and members of the criminal justice system since 2001 and serves as a consulting editor for the journal Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) and on the editorial review board of the Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation (JVR).