FEBRUARY 9–10 GREENVILLE, SC

Who Professionals & Parents Attendees may include Licensed Social Workers, Licensed Independent

Therapists, Certified Counselors, Teachers, Mental Health Workers, Occu-pational Therapists, Board Certified Behavioral Therapists, and Speech and Language Pathologists, and Nurses (250 attendees max)

Where The Kroc Center 424 Westfield St, Greenville, SC

What Keynote session & Breakout sessions

Cost $110 for professionals $80 for parents

Education Continuing Education Credits have been applied for with several Boards and are pending approval

National Board of Certified Counselors, NBCC South Carolina Board of Social Work Examiners South Carolina Occupational Therapy Association (SCOTA) South Carolina Board of Professional Counselors South Carolina Board of Speech-Language Pathology & Audiology South Carolina Nursing Board

Perks Lunch is included both days Vendors will be on site Hotel partner

2017 SPEAKERS

MELANIEWATT

Equine Autism Therapy

SARAKEENEY

Speech & Language Pathologist

JANICEYOUNG, PHDSpecial Education

Presented by Springbrook Behavioral Health

AMANDAHASSEN

Aquatic Therapy

DR. ISHMEALMAJOR

Child & Adolescent Psychiatry

JEFFCOHN

Occupational Therapy

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DILLENHARTLEY

Occupational TherapyChild & Adolescent Psychiatry

DR. MATTHEWFISHER, MD

Speech & Language Pathologist

DR. WILLIAMKILLION, PHD BCBA

FEBRUARY 9–10 GREENVILLE, SC

What makes Springbrook different from other residential behavioral and psychiatric autism programs throughout the southeast?

We work with the entire spectrum of children, adolescents, and teens with autism, including patients across the spectrum, and we begin work with children at younger ages, using advanced, evidence-based autism therapy programs. More importantly, our dedicated staff is committed to autism programs and therapies that address the needs of the whole child rather than just the diagnosis.

Everything we do is geared toward improving the lives of children with autism and their families, specifically addressing the treatment of severe behaviors and psychiatric related issues related to the autism spectrum. The Springbrook staff doesn’t merely attempt to control children with autism—we attempt to reach them by every available means.

To learn more visit www.springbrookbehavioral.com/

autism-programs-and-therapies

Continuing Education Credits have been applied for with the following Boards and are pending approval.• National Board of Certified Counselors, NBCC• South Carolina Board of Social Work Examiners• South Carolina Occupational Therapy Association (SCOTA)• South Carolina Board of Professional Counselors• South Carolina Board of Speech-Language Pathology & Audiology• South Carolina Nursing Board

Registration Requirements: All attendees must be registered and purchase tickets prior to the event via online registration at www.eventbrite.com/e/converge-autism-conference-tickets-27773821247. Attendance is limited to 250 and registration will remain open so long as tickets are available.

Cancellation Policy: Program fees for Converge Autism Summit 2017 are nonrefundable and nontransferable.

Converge Autism Summit 2017 is hosted by Springbrook Behavioral Health. Any questions should be directed to the program liaison, Mary Ann Bennett at MaryAnn.Bennett@springbrookbhs.com

INFORMATION

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KEYNOTE SPEAKER:

DR. WILLIAM KILLION, PHD BCBASpeech & Language Pathologist

Dr. Killion possesses 40 plus years of direct experience with individuals with developmental disabilities including autism. He possesses a B.S. in Speech Pathology with a minor in Psychology, a M.Ed. in Special Education and a PhD in Developmental Psychology. He is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and is a Behavioral Psychologist at Springbrook. He is the author of the Functional Independence Skills Handbook or F.I.S.H. Developmental Program.

DR. MATTHEW FISHER, MDChild & Adolescent Psychiatry

Dr. Fisher completed his General Psychiatry residency at the University of Texas-Galveston and a Child/Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at University of South Carolina. He serves as Medical leader of SpringBrook’s Psychiatric Residential and Outpatient Treatment Program (specializing in treating Autism Spectrum Disorders) and is an authority in minimal medical management of ASD and ASD with comorbidities. Dr. Fisher speaks at Autism Conferences on Medical Overview of Autism Spectrum Disorders, Medication Management for Autism Spectrum Disorders, Myths and Misconceptions in Autism, Autism and Co-Morbid Conditions, and Helping Siblings and Other Children Understand Autism.

SPEAKERS

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SARA KEENEYSpeech & Language Pathologist

Sara holds a master’s degree in communication disorders, has extensive experience with a variety of pediatric communication disorders and has chosen to work with autism as her specialty. Sara has worked in multiple settings including early intervention, speech and hearing clinics, a craniofacial team, elementary, middle and high schools and residential treatment facilities. In addition to her current position at Springbrook, she runs a private practice providing home based speech-language services.

MELANIE WATTEquine Therapy

Melanie has a Masters of Education and a background as Special Education teacher. She is now the Founder & Executive Director of Hope Remains Youth Ranch, an equine program that offers riding lessons, after school programs, certified equine therapy session and professional counseling to children and families throughout the Upstate of SC. Melanie has a heart for seeing children succeed and sees Hope Remains Youth Ranch as a place of healing, both physically, emotionally and spiritually for children and families.

DILLEN HARTLEYOccupational Therapy

Dillen graduated from the University of Pretoria, South Africa, School of Occupational Therapy and moved then moved to the United States. He is co-owner of Advanced Therapy Solutions. Dillen’s interest is in the areas of Autism, developmental disorders, sensory processing disorders, ADHD, ADD and learning disabilities. He is trained and experienced in sensory integration, neuromuscular re-education, brain gym, vision therapy, environmental adaptation, Tai-Chi, yoga, Interactive Metronome and Integrated Listening Systems. He serves on the Clinical Advisory Board for Interactive Metronome and he is also a certified iLs trainer and is often asked to present his views and treatment approaches in treatment of children internationally.

JEFF COHNOccupational Therapy

With a BS and MS in Occupational Therapy, Jeffery has a deep well of educational professional experience. As lead OT in a pediatric development outpatient clinic, lead OT in CA school districts, experience in long and short term rehab facilities, and now with experience in the Autism Program at Springbrook Behavioral Health, Jeffry brings a wide range of real-world patient and clinical experience with a specialization in Autism.

DR. ISHMEAL MAJORChild & Adolescent Psychiatry

Educated at The University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Dr. Ish is a board certified psychiatrist who specializes in women, children and families. He has worked as a resident physician in South Carolina, as Medical Director at outpatient services center and has owned his own private practice. In addition, as an on camera expert Dr. Ish is a frequent guest on Fox News and The Today show. He currently serves as Psychiatrist at Springbrook in the midst of this media and writing appearances and professional workshops.

JANICE YOUNG, PHDDirector of Special Education, Springbrook

Dr. Young holds a Doctorate of Philosophy degree in Education with a specialization in Special Education Leadership in addition to a Highly Qualified Professional teaching certificate (K-12 special education) and a principal licensure. She has an extensive background working with students with Autism, Developmental Delays, Specific Learning Disabilities, and Other Health Impairments. In addition, Dr. Young is well versed with many research-based reading strategies and is the author of the book Student Reading Achievement on the Rise.

AMANDA HASSENAquatic Therapy

Amanda earned her Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree from Belmont University and is currently a Pediatric Occupational Therapist and Director Of Aquatic Therapy at Advanced Therapy Solutions Kids. Amanda has experience in applied evidence-based techniques in implementing a modified lean-to-swim and water safety program that meets the individual sensory needs of children diagnosed with Autism.

JENNIFER AMMACHERSpecial Education Teacher

Jennifer graduated from East Stroudsburg University with her MEd in Special Education. Jennifer currently serves as a teacher at SpringBrook and has extensive course work on ABA. Serving as a speaker at many national autism conferences, Jennifer speaks to teachers and parents on how to ensure that children with Autism Spectrum Disorders succeed in the classroom. She also speaks at conferences on Antecedent Behavior Intervention, Discrete Trial Training, and Differential Reinforcement & Extinction. Earlier in her career she was nominated for induction into the Da Vinci Science Center’s Hall of Fame.

SESSION 1Autism & Applied Behavior AnalysisSpeaker: William K. Killion Ph.D., BCBA

This presentation seeks to provide general information about Autism and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) which is a methodology that has shown clinical evidence in assisting people with autism by improving their basic functioning and skills. Specific characteristics of autism along with a presentation of ABA concepts/terms, along with some specific tools will be presented.

Learning Objectives:

• Attendees will demonstrate a good understanding of the theory and underlying principles guiding the use of ABA for children on the spectrum.

• Attendees will have a good understanding of the benefits of ABA for individuals on the spectrum and the characteristics of who might benefit the most from this methodology.

• Attendees will learn and understand the specific characteristics of autism, ABA concepts/terms, principles, techniques and equipment used in ABA

SESSION 2Finding Exceptional Abilities, Not DisabilitiesSpeaker: Jeffery Lee Cohn, OTR/L,MOT

Join Jeffery Cohn MAOTR/L for a discussion on understanding how children with ASD processes the sensory world that surrounds them. By understanding how children with ASD experience the auditory and visual

SESSIONS

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world, you will understand and learn how to better work with them in the classroom, at home, and in therapy settings. You will also learn how to put children at ease during anxiety driven moments and how to avoid some triggers of anxiety. After this session, you will understand how to use the power of positive behavioral supports and how to better engage with children and join it them in their unique world. In turn, children will be freer to join you and discover the larger world as a whole.

Learning Objectives:

• Attendees will demonstrate a good understanding of the theory and underlying principles guiding how children with ASD process and learn.

• Attendees will learn and understand how children with ASD process the auditory and visual world, and learn how to better work with them in the classroom, at home, and in therapy settings.

• Attendees will learn and understand the principles and techniques of putting children at ease during anxiety driven moments and how to avoid some triggers of anxiety.

• Attendees will have a good understanding of the benefits of using positive behavior supports and how to better engage with children during moments of anxiety or potential triggers.

SESSION 3The Clinical Use of Music to Encourage Social Engagement: Managing Fight or FlightSpeaker: Dillen Hartley, OTR/L

The autonomic nervous system plays a critical role in our readiness to learn and engage others socially and is a key factor influencing the performance of individuals with Autism. The balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system has a profound effect on the state and ability of the individual to communicate and engage in appropriate social behavior. Music has the potential to influence typical development and facilitate the development of emotion, attachment, communication, self-regulation and dynamic intelligence.

This presentation will focus on how the Integrated Listening System and the research of Dr. Stephen Porges support therapy practice with children and adults on the spectrum. Attendees will understand how the autonomic nervous system influences performance through system and research review of Polyvagal Theory. Attendees will learn practical ways they can incorporate techniques into practice for individuals with autism, anxiety and sensory processing disorder.

Learning Objectives:

• Attendees will have a general understanding of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system interaction and neurology.

• Attendees will have an in-depth knowledge of how the autonomic nervous system influences emotion, communication, self-regulation and social engagement

• Attendees will demonstrate an understanding of the research supporting the importance and effective autonomic nervous system on the development of social skills.

• ●Attendees will demonstrate a good working knowledge of how programs like The Integrated Listening System and Sound Sensitivity Program positively influence sympathetic and parasympathetic integration and balance.

• ●Attendees will have practical examples of how to incorporate Music and related techniques facilitate emotional growth and manage fight or flight.

SESSION 4Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP): Both Behavioral & Mental Health Models Speaker: Melonie Watt, M.Ed

Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) is designed as a behavioral and mental health model for clientele of all ages with mental, emotional, and behavioral issues. EAP is a form of therapeutic intervention in which horses are used as tools for clients to gain self-understanding and emotional growth. EAP involves equine activities set up and facilitated by a licensed mental health professional and equine specialist. These activities are most often performed on the ground (non-riding), and include such things as grooming, haltering and leading the horse within a specifically designed treatment plan.

During the process of working with the horse, the therapist and client engage in talk therapy, processing feelings, behaviors and patterns. The ultimate goal for the client is to build skills such as personal responsibility, assertiveness, non-verbal communication, self-confidence, problem solving, relational and self-control.

EAP can also be utilized as an Equine Experiential Education program. This program addresses the five domains of development: Cognitive, Social and Emotional, Language, Fine and Gross Motor Skills.

Learning Objectives:

• Attendees will demonstrate a good understanding of the theory and underlying principles guiding the use of Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP).

• Attendees will have a good understanding of the benefits of Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) for clientele of all ages that deal with mental, emotional, and behavioral issues and the characteristics of who might benefit the most from this tool and environment.

• Attendees will learn and understanding the guiding principles and techniques of using Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) to improve the function, participation and learning of the individuals with mental, emotional, and behavioral issues.

SESSION 5Swimming on the Spectrum: Harnessing the Qualities of Water in TherapySpeaker: Amanda Hassen, OTD, OTR/L

The unique characteristics of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) force parents and therapists to explore a variety of environments, therapies, and techniques to find the “just-right” fit for each individual on the spectrum. Finding the right environment to best meet the needs of the individual and facilitate functional carry-over is critical for effective therapeutic practice. The aquatic environment undoubtedly provides this medium.

This presentation will provide the audience with the rational, evidence, and logistics of using water as a tool in therapy. Occupational therapists can help clients by using the unique qualities of the water to support sensory processing, sensorimotor performance, social behavioral performance, self-care, and participation in play.

This presentation will cover in general terms the principles guiding the use of water and practical techniques parents and therapists can use in aquatic environments.The presenter will also share their experiences developing and creating an aquatic therapy program for individuals on the spectrum and the factors affecting the program such as pool space, equipment, logistics and insurance reimbursement.

Learning Objectives:

• Attendees will demonstrate a good understanding of the theory and underlying principles guiding the use of water for children on the spectrum. Also, the benefits of aquatic therapy for the individual on the spectrum and the characteristics of who might benefit the most from this therapy

• Attendees will learn and understand the principles, techniques and equipment used to teach water safety and basic swimming for the individual at risk for drowning.

• Attendees will learn and understanding the guiding principles and techniques of using the qualities of water to improve the function, participation and learning of the individual on the spectrum.

• Attendees will have an understanding of the factors positively and negatively affecting the development, logistics and reimbursement affecting Aquatic therapy for children on the spectrum.

SESSION 6Group Therapy: Great Resources That are Original, Useful & PracticalSpeaker: Sara Keeney, MCD CCC-SLP

Many parents and professionals believe groups are second class therapy. However, group therapy is often the best way to target and help generalize a variety of skill deficits in the autistic population. This presentation will cover when group therapy is indicated and how it can be structured to support and incorporate individual educational and therapeutic goals. In addition a variety of resources will be highlighted to demonstrate the wide variety of goals that can be incorporated into group therapy.

Learning Objectives:

• Attendees will demonstrate a good understanding of the theory and underlying principles of group therapy. • Attendees will understand the principles used in group therapy to to target a variety of skill deficits in

individuals with autism.• Attendees will have an understanding of when group therapy is indicated and how it can be structured to

support and incorporate individual educational and therapeutic goals. • Attendees will learn of resources that will demonstrate the wide variety of goals that can be incorporated

into group therapy.

SESSION 7Autistic Spectrum DisordersSpeaker: Dr. William Matthew Fisher, MD.

In this session, information will be presented about Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Dr. Fisher will share the W’s of Autism: who, what, when, where, why is it, and what do we do about it? He will also inform participants of the three primary impairments that affect individuals on the spectrum. Attendees will also receive insight on frequent findings in regards to ASD, as well as possible causes and current available treatments options.

Learning Objectives:

• Attendees will have a good understanding of the characteristics of individuals with ASD.• Attendees will have an understanding of the three primary impairments that affect individuals

on the spectrum.

• Attendees will learn and understand possible causes and current available treatments options and what treatments have been shown to be effective.

• Attendees will have an understanding of frequent findings in regards to ASD and how they affect individuals with ASD.

SESSION 8Autism Spectrum Disorder, Treatment Strategies & Understanding Love LanguagesSpeaker: Jennifer Ammacher, M.Ed

This workshop is designed to increase understanding of the five love languages and how understanding children’s love languages can help caregivers and counselors begin to provide the input that children need and crave. Caregivers, teachers, and counselors will know how to better fill children’s tank so to speak. Understanding this simple concept will assist educators, counselors, and caregivers in helping children with positive reinforcement that is geared specifically to how the child responds. This session will also cover basic information on Autism Spectrum Disorders and the characteristics of good teachers and support staff.

Learning Objectives:

• Attendees will learn and understand the principles and techniques of the five love languages.• Attendees will demonstrate a good understanding of the theory and underlying principles guiding the use

of love language tools into classrooms, homes, and therapeutic settings.• Attendees will learn and understand a basic knowledge of Autism Spectrum disorders and the

characteristics of good teachers and support staff.

SESSION 9The Four T’s: Tantrums, Timeout, Toileting & Talking Speaker: William K. Killion Ph.D., BCBA

This presentation seeks to provide insight into specific methodologies to address four major issues facing children with autism or other developmental disabilities. Methodologies on how to approach tantrums, timeout, toileting and beginning speech will be discussed. These methodologies can be useful to counselors, teachers, and caregivers in working with and assisting children with autism or other developmental disabilities.

Learning Objectives:

• Attendees will demonstrate a good understanding of four major issues facing children with autism or other developmental disabilities.

• Attendees will learn and understand principles, techniques used to approach tantrums, timeout, toileting and beginning speech in therapy settings, classrooms, and home environments.

• Attendees will have a good understanding of the benefits of the methodologies used to approach tantrums, timeout, toileting and beginning speech and the characteristics of who might benefit the most from these tools and methodologies.

SESSION 10Minimalism: Structuring Environments to Support Speech & Language DevelopmentSpeaker: Sara Keeney, MCD CCC-SLP

The hottest topic in everything from home décor to fashion has applications for supporting the autistic community and their neuro-typical family. Don’t worry it isn’t about giving up all your stuff and moving into a tiny house! Reduced visual stimulation and good organization helps control stress and decreases cognitive load so there are less meltdowns, frustrations and smoother transitions in home, school, and therapeutic environments. While it can assist in the decrease of symptoms related to OCD, APD and ADD, it also sets you up for opportunities to encourage communication from beginning learners to high-functioning conversationalists.

Learning Objectives:

• Attendees will demonstrate a good understanding of the theory and underlying principles of reducing visual stimulation and using organization to control stress and decrease cognitive load.

• Attendees will learn and understanding of the correlation between the visual stimulation, and meltdowns, frustrations, and challenging transitions in home, school, and therapeutic environments.

• Attendees will have an understanding of how to utilizing good organization and a lower visually stimulating environment can decrease of symptoms and set them up for opportunities to encourage communication with children on the spectrum.

SESSION 11I Want To Move It Move It!!!!!Speaker: Jeffery Lee Cohn, OTR/L,MOT

Join, Jeffery Cohn MAOTR/L in a interactive movement workshop. During this workshop, you will explore various sensory motor movement strategies to help children learn to self-regulate throughout their day. You will learn how to use basic items that can be purchased as discount retailers or Amazon to create a sensory rich environment for a child in the classroom, at home, or in therapy settings. Through the use of learning how children like to move, you will learn a new way to join with your child, student, or client and become more engaged in their world. With the use of good sensory motor moment strategies, you can learn to prevent meltdowns, reduce anxiety and improve the organization of behavior of a child. Organization of behavior is the ability of a child to stay seated longer at a desktop and maintain engagement in adult directed tasks.

Learning Objectives:

• Attendees will learn and understand various sensory motor movement strategies to help a child learn to self-regulate throughout their day.

• Attendees will learn how to use basic items that can be purchased as discount retailers or Amazon to create a sensory rich environment for a child in the classroom, at home, or in therapy settings.

• Attendees will demonstrate a good understanding of the use of sensory motor moment strategies prevent meltdowns, reduce anxiety and improve the organization of behavior of children.

SESSION 12Cat Got Your Tongue? Supra-linguistics & the Ambiguity of the English LanguageSpeaker: Sara Keeney, MCD CCC-SLP

Have you ever caught yourself using an idiom when you didn’t intend to? Ever thought about how disorienting it is for the autistic population? There is so much figurative language in spoken, sung, and written word that it can sometimes seem as if we are speaking a foreign language! Let’s look at the most common forms of supra-linguistics that cause the most difficulty and ways to incorporate learning them into therapy settings and daily routine.

Learning Objectives:

• Attendees will demonstrate a good understanding of how idioms and figurative language can be disorienting for the individuals with autism and how to work with such language.

• Attendees will have an understanding of the most common forms of supra-linguistics that cause the most difficulty for individuals on the spectrum.

• Attendees will learn and understand ways to incorporate working with supra-linguistics into therapy settings and daily routines.