Autism New Jersey is committed to helping autistic individuals and their families live safe, healthy, and fulfilling lives. At this year’s conference, we are highlighting two important ways to help make that possible: innovative technology and positive interactions with law enforcement.
Thursday, October 24 | Interactive Technologies in Autism
How Wearable Biosensing Can Help to Predict Problem Behavior
We welcome an expert on the use of technology in autism to open our conference on Thursday October 24th. Matthew Goodwin, Ph.D. of Northeastern University will provide an overview of technologies that have been developed for individuals with autism and then discuss his research on the use of wearable technology and artificial intelligence to predict challenging behavior before it occurs. Dr. Goodwin will explore the implications of his research and the potential for developing individualized interventions, including evaluating the benefits to caregivers and medical professionals in identifying and managing challenging behavior in profound autism.
Friday, October 25 | Law Enforcement and Autism
Everyone Has a Role
From the highest levels of government to all citizens, everyone has a role when it comes to ensuring positive and safe interactions between the law enforcement and autism communities. We are honored to welcome First Assistant Attorney General Lyndsay Ruotolo who will offer opening remarks and set the stage for a Keynote Panel. Doreen Yanik, Esq. of Autism New Jersey, Ruth DeBar, Ph.D., BCBA-D of Caldwell University, and Ray Royster, Deputy Director of the Office of Community Engagement within the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General will share important information about the current state of law enforcement and autism, what Autism New Jersey is doing to coordinate statewide efforts and promote autism-friendly practices, and how clinicians can do their part to ensure that autistic individuals have safe interactions with law enforcement.
“We are excited to welcome Dr. Goodwin, Director Yanik, Dr. DeBar, and Deputy Director Royster as our keynote speakers, each of whom has dedicated their careers to improving the lives of others. They will share their insights and experiences so we can all be better prepared to meet the biological, social, and safety needs of individuals with autism,” said Dr. Suzanne Buchanan, Executive Director of Autism New Jersey.
Following these keynote addresses, more than 50 workshops will address important areas including trauma informed care, school-based issues, communication skills, assessment and treatment of problem behavior, transitioning to adulthood, and medical visit considerations. The conference also includes formal and informal opportunities to network with keynote speakers, other presenters, exhibitors, and attendees from around the state.
Continuing education opportunities are available.