Navigating Autism in Therapy: Practical Tools for Screening and Treatment
Friday, November 7, 2025
9:30am-12:00pm
(see time breakdown below)
with Laura Wilbur, LMFT
2 CE credits
In person @ Rancho Cordova City Hall
(2729 Prospect Park Dr, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670)
Description
This workshop provides licensed mental health professionals with essential knowledge and practical strategies for assessing and treating individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Grounded in established psychological principles and supported by current research, this training explores the application of DSM-5 diagnostic criteria, evidence-based screening tools, and ethical considerations in clinical practice.
Participants will learn how to integrate validated screening methods, such as the Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ), Ritvo Autism Asperger Diagnostic Scale-Revised (RAADS-R), and Social Responsiveness Scale-2 (SRS-2), to inform clinical decision-making and referrals. The workshop also examines treatment planning approaches tailored to neurodivergent individuals, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and psychoeducation.
A core component of this training is the neurodiversity-affirming framework, which emphasizes the strengths-based perspective of autism rather than a deficit-based model. Participants will explore ethical responsibilities, including informed consent, diagnostic transparency, and the clinician’s scope of practice when working with autistic individuals.
Research supporting this training includes findings from the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) on effective ASD treatments, studies on clinician confidence in autism diagnosis and intervention (Maddox et al., 2018), and evidence-based therapy adaptations for neurodivergent clients.
By the end of this workshop, participants will be equipped to confidently identify ASD indicators, implement appropriate interventions, and provide client-centered, ethical care that aligns with both best practices and evolving perspectives on autism treatment.
Learning Objectives
At the end of this presentation, attendees will be able to:
- Identify and describe at least three commonly used screening tools for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in children and adults, including their intended use and limitations.
- Develop a treatment plan incorporating at least two evidence-based interventions (e.g., CBT, ACT, MI) that align with the unique needs of autistic individuals.
- Demonstrate an understanding of ethical considerations by describing two key components of informed consent when assessing or treating individuals with ASD.
Presenter
Laura Wilbur, LMFT has been working with children and families in various capacities since 2011. With a B.A. in Child Development and an M.A. in Psychology, she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to trainings, consultations, and corporate talks. Her background includes over a decade of county-contracted work in early childhood education and community mental health, as well as experience in private practice and hospital outpatient settings.
Specializing in trauma, grief, chronic or terminal illness, autism and neurodivergence, anxiety and depression, LGBTQ+ support, women’s health, and program development, Laura offers expert guidance through therapy, parent coaching, professional consultation, and strategic program development. As an Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (ASDCS), she provides expert support for neurodivergent individuals and those who care for them. With a compassionate, client-centered approach, she tailors each engagement to meet the unique needs of those she serves.
Other Details
Time: 9:30am-12:00pm
9:30am-10:00am (checkin/light breakfast and networking)
10:00am-12:00pm (CE event presentation)
Location: Rancho Cordova City Hall (2729 Prospect Park Dr, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670)
Cost:
Non-member $40
Licensed Member $35
Associate Member $30
Student Member $25
Early Bird (ends 2 weeks prior to event)
Non-member $35
Licensed Member $30
Associate Member $25
Student Member $20
For questions, more information, accommodations: contact us at sacramentocamft@gmail.com. You may also contact Programs Co-Chair Roque Neto at ramorimneto@paloaltou.edu. See specific presentation online in confirmation and reminder emails, if available.
This is an introductory, intermediate, and advanced level course. This program will benefit LMFT, LPCC, LEP and LCSW licensees and pre-licensees. Open to all mental health professionals, both members and non-members.
This course meets the qualifications for 2 hours of continuing education credit for LMFTs, LCSWs, LPCCs, and/or LEPs as required by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. The Sacramento Valley Chapter of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (SVC-CAMFT), provider #62279, is approved by CAMFT to sponsor continuing education for LMFTs, LCSWs, LPCCs, and LEPs. SVC-CAMFT maintains the responsibility for the program and all its content.
CE credit will be awarded via email after the completion of the course in exchange for a course evaluation. No CE credits will be awarded to persons not attending the presentation in it's entirety. Partial CE credit will not be awarded.
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