Working with Individuals with Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities and Families from a Cultural Perspective

Culture influences approaches to disability, including the understanding of a disability and its etiology, whether to seek support and access resources, and moderating relationships with health and other service providers. The process of screening, referral, diagnostic evaluation, and the process of navigating disability related systems resulting from cross-cultural perspectives will be discussed. This training will explore cultural perspectives on disability through a family panel presentation, an interdisciplinary case study discussion, and an exploration of strategies for navigating cultural differences in disability service delivery.

Behavioral health professionals, social workers, special educators, school counselors, infant learning providers, individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities and family members, direct service professionals and other interested people are welcome to attend.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify ways in which cultural diversity may influence an individual or family’s experience of disability screening, diagnosis, and service delivery.
• Explore family perspectives on culture and disability.
• Learn strategies for facilitating culturally sensitive services with individuals who experience disabilities and their families.
• Develop skills for providing, identifying, clarifying & resolving information related to disability services.