Gifted & Autistic: How do we Know and What do we do?

With Megan Helmen, Psy.D., LP

May 16th, 2024

9:00am - 12:00pm PDT

3 CEs Available

Workshop Fees

AAPdN Professional Member: $60.00 USD

Non-Member: $80.00 USD

AAPdN Student Member: FREE!

Student Non-Member: $20.00 USD

Cancellation policy: You may receive a full refund up to two weeks before the event (May 2nd). Please email events@theaapdn.org to do so.

Abstract

As a field, we are beginning to recognize that we have been “missing” many children with autism, particularly among girls and intellectually gifted individuals. These children are at higher risk for suicidal ideation and victimization, as their significant strengths and difficulties cause misconceptions and make daily life challenging. This talk aims to build on foundational knowledge about autism assessment to help clinicians identify those children we tend to overlook due to subtle observable autistic traits. Twice exceptionality (gifted + disabled) has become a specialty area in my clinical work yet there is a dearth of research on this population. Case review and data from gifted autistic children are reviewed along with examples from my experience assessing children from this fascinating, challenging population who need to be identified and supported.

Objectives

Participants will be able to:

1) Examine what (little) research tells us about gifted autistic children.

2) Analyze case examples comparing gifted and gifted + autistic individuals, highlighting important nuances when assessing this population

3) Identify how autistic traits can present in gifted children.

4) Compose recommendations based in research on positive outcomes, neurodiversity-affirming practices, and strength-based approaches.

Level of Activity: Intermediate

About Dr. Helmen

Dr. Megan Helmen is a pediatric neuropsychologist who has been providing evaluations for 12+ years and has worked in the autism community for 20+ years. She believes in balancing clinical expertise and research-based interventions with connection and a sense of humor. Her clinical process is neurodiversity-affirming and continually evolving.

The American Academy of Pediatric Neuropsychology (AAPdN) is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. AAPdN maintains responsibility for this program and its content.

AAPdN is recognized by the New York State Education Department's State Board of Psychology as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed psychologists #PSY-0059. AAPdN maintains responsibility for this program and its content.

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