The autism community has questions, and Autism New Jersey has answers.
During our 43rd Annual Autism Conference, keynote speakers will explore two topics that have recently been the subject of intense conversation within the community: how to address severe challenging behavior and the scientific causes of autism.
Today, we’d like to spotlight our Thursday keynote.
Thursday, October 16 | Minimizing Risk While Promoting Choice and Skill Building in Addressing Severe Challenging Behavior
As trauma-informed care is increasingly adopted in behavioral and healthcare services, this timely keynote by Dr. Adithyan “Dithu” Rajaraman will offer a grounded and research-informed perspective on how to support individuals who engage in behaviors such as aggression, self-injury, or elopement — without compromising safety, dignity, or autonomy.
With clarity, nuance, and deep clinical insight, Dr. Rajaraman will unpack the four core commitments of trauma-informed care and show how they can coexist with behavioral principles in meaningful, ethical, and practical ways. Whether you’re a provider, family member, or policymaker, this keynote will equip you with the tools to advocate for trauma-informed approaches that truly meet the needs of those with complex support profiles.
Friday, October 17 | The Complex Causes of Autism
Families, professionals, and the broader autism community have asked the same question for decades: “What Causes Autism?” Two leading researchers from Rutgers University will tackle this question in the keynote session. Dr. Alycia Halladay and Dr. M. Chiara Manzini will guide attendees through the science and offer a balanced and evidence-informed overview of where current research stands. Learn more>>
In addition to our Thursday and Friday keynote addresses, more than 60 workshops will address important areas including school-based issues, communication skills, assessment and treatment of problem behavior, transitioning to adulthood, and family considerations. The conference also includes opportunities to network with keynote speakers, other presenters, exhibitors, and attendees from around the state.
Continuing education opportunities are available.