Children on the autism spectrum can often be misunderstood by their surrounding community. Often, the intersectionality of loss and grief present in adoption, coupled with autism, can present unique challenges to adoptive parents and the professionals that work with them. In this course, adoption professionals learn about available resources and techniques to help communicate with children on the autism spectrum about how and why they joined the family, who their birth family members are, and other questions related to their adoption.

This course provides an overview of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), discussion about the differences in ASD presentation, and practical resources and parenting strategies for families. Attention is given to adoptees with autism, as well as how a diagnosis may impact relationships with siblings, birth families, and adoptive parents. The intersectionality of ASD with other issues connected to adoption, such as grief, maintaining relationships, and understanding the adoption story is highlighted.

David Brown, MSW – President, Family Initiative, Inc.
Anjali Van Drie, MA, MSW, BCBA – Vice President, Family Initiative, Inc.

Course length: 60 minutes

Cost to register: $15
If you are a NCFA member, look for your discount code in the membership portal.

Recorded on August 22, 2022.

PLEASE NOTE - This course does NOT provide social work CE credits. If you are an adoption professional seeking Social Work CE credit for this course, please register for this webinar here instead: https://adoption.talentlms.com/catalog/info/id:146