Clinician Track: AM Breakout Session: The Movement Sensing Perspective UNPACKED Time 10:00-11:15 AM Presenter/Facilitator Rosemary White, OTR/L Back to Course List < Back Clinician Track: AM Breakout Session: The Movement Sensing Perspective UNPACKED In this presentation, Rosemary White, OTR/L brings clarity, depth, and clinical relevance to Elizabeth Torres’s groundbreaking Moving Sensing Perspective in autism. Drawing on her decades of experience in occupational therapy and neurodevelopmental work, Rosemary unpacks Torres’s rich, data driven research and translates complex concepts into practical understanding for clinicians supporting autistic children, adults, and their families. Rosemary bridges theory and practice by explaining how movement, sensation, and nervous system variability offer crucial insights into how autistic individuals experience and respond to the world. She reframes common clinical observations—such as differences in motor control, regulation, attention, and communication—through the lens of self-generated sensory feedback and lived physiological experience, moving beyond behavior-based interpretations. Throughout the talk, Rosemary emphasizes why this perspective matters for everyday clinical decision-making. She explores how understanding individual movement signatures can support more respectful assessment, reduce misinterpretation of intent, and guide interventions that prioritize regulation, safety, and autonomy rather than normalization or compliance. Case examples illustrate how this framework can deepen collaboration with families and empower clinicians to listen to what the body is communicating, not just what is observable on the surface. Learning Outcomes: Participants will analyze the Movement Sensing Perspective to explain how movement, sensation, and nervous system variability shape the lived experiences of autistic individuals. Participants will interpret clinical observations—such as motor differences, regulation, attention, and communication—through the lens of self-generated sensory feedback rather than behavior-based assumptions. Participants will apply movement-informed assessment and intervention strategies that prioritize regulation, safety, and autonomy while enhancing collaboration with families. Rosemary White, OTR/L is from Australia and has been an Occupational Therapist since 1972. Rosemary received her Neurodevelopmental Therapy training in London with the Bobaths, her Sensory Integrative Therapy training in Los Angeles with Dr. A Jean Ayres and her training in DIR®/Floortime with Stanley Greenspan, MD and Serena Wieder, PhD and the Faculty of ICDL. Rosemary is the owner of a private practice and specializes in working with children presenting with challenges relating and communicating such as autism, sensory processing/integration differences and motor planning and regulatory/attention differences Rosemary’s practice emphasizes understanding the impact of the child’s sensory processing and postural control on their capacity to relate, communicate and learn. Disclosure: Rosemary White, OTR/L is a paid speaker at ACN 2026 Summit- Toward Neuroharmony: Welcome to the Autism Renaissance.

< Back Cortney John, MA Chief Development & Outreach Officer Cortney John holds a Master of Arts degree in Communication and Mass Media from Angelo State University and a BA in Communication with a concentration in Public Relations from The University of Texas at San Antonio. Cortney has spent the last ten years as a professional fundraiser in the Texas Hill Country and has worked throughout her professional career in crisis communication planning, marketing campaign management, and philanthropic fundraising. Cortney has served on multiple committees and councils in various roles from social outreach to communications chair. Understanding that the basis of all successful communication lies in relationship building is important to Cortney. A Rio Grande Valley native, Cortney now calls San Antonio home and spends much of her time exploring antique stores, estate sales, and finding new recipes to try. As a sibling to a neurodivergent adult, Autism Community Network’s mission lands close to home for Cortney and fuels her fire to be an ethical storyteller for ACN’s work each day. cortney@acn-sa.org 210-435-1000

Caregiver Ambassador Program (CAP) ACN offers a Caregiver Ambassador Program designed to connect new and more practiced autism caregivers. Through the program, participants are able to share resources, discuss best practices, and learn from each other’s experiences. This program provides support, guidance, and education to families who are new to autism caregiving. Additionally, it helps experienced caregivers stay up-to-date with the latest research and advancements in autism care. 02 What do I ask my ambassador? Feel free to ask you ambassador anything you think might help. If you are unsure about where to go to sign up for Medicaid waiver programs, or if you need help with finding a great place for haircuts, our CAP's will share with you what has worked best for them and other resources they may have heard about. All CAP's are familiar with ACN's services and can get you to the right place if they don't have an answer. 01 How CAP works. The Caregiver Ambassador Program pairs families new to our herd with caregiver volunteers of our organization. The program helps give families and caregivers a friend who has experienced similar circumstances, successes and struggles and is further along on their autism journey. 03 What else do ambassadors do? CAP's are volunteers for the organization and may be found representing our ACN family at special events and resource fairs handing out swag and educational/promotional information. CAP's are leaders of the herd, families who have a special passion to support other autism families in any way possible. How to start: Contact our CAP Team. Autism Community Network wants to pair you with the right ambassador. Whether you are a grandparent, father or mother, we have someone who can keep it real with you, guide you to real answers, and celebrate real victories! Request An Ambassador

Clinical Intensive Day -Additional Day of training for Professionals only 10/3/2026- At Autism Community Network Time 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM Presenter/Facilitator Dr. Elizabeth Torres and Rosemary White, OTR/L Back to Course List < Back Clinical Intensive Day 8:30-9:45 AM: Dr. Elizabeth Torres Research; An Introduction to the Sensory-Motor Integration Lab Course Description: Dr. Elizabeth Torres will present an introduction to the Sensory-Motor Integration Lab (SMIL) at Rutgers University, highlighting the lab’s mission, innovative approach, and current areas of research. Designed for clinicians, this presentation will provide an overview of how the lab studies sensory-motor processes to develop data-driven therapies and more objective measures for understanding neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative conditions, including autism and Parkinson’s disease. During the presentation, Dr. Torres will introduce clinicians to the lab’s major areas of work and research, including: • Autism and Communication: Pioneering the use of digital biometrics and computer vision to track microscopic facial movements ("micromovement spikes") and biorhythms. This research reveals hidden emotional cues in non-speaking individuals, preventing misdiagnosis and fostering better social understanding. • Interpretable Digital Biometrics: Replacing subjective clinical observations with precise, technology-driven outcome measures using commercial sensors to track motor noise, heart rate variability, and physical volition. • Genomics: Applying new statistical and computational techniques to selectively analyze the transcriptome to bridge molecular changes in neurons with observable behaviors. • Clinical Innovation: Collaborating with educators, clinicians, and families to develop inclusive tracking tools (like SILAS-Digital) to map a person's learning preferences, attentional windows, and nervous system dysregulation. The session will help clinicians better understand how SMIL’s research connects cutting-edge sensory-motor science with practical clinical applications, with an emphasis on improving assessment, communication, and individualized intervention strategies. Session Learning Outcomes: By the end of this presentation, attendees will be able to: • Describe the mission and core areas of work of the Sensory-Motor Integration Lab and explain their relevance to clinical practice. • Identify how sensory-motor integration research can inform the assessment of neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative conditions, including autism and Parkinson’s disease. • Recognize examples of digital biomarkers and technology-enabled measures used to support more objective, individualized evaluation and intervention. • Discuss ways that findings from the lab’s research may translate into improved communication and motor supports, assessment strategies, and person-centered clinical care. 10:00-11:15 AM: Rosemary White, OTR/L Practice; The Role of Affect in Intentional Movement in Autism Course Description: In autism, affect—the expression or internal experience of emotion—is deeply intertwined with intentional movement. It acts as the critical bridge linking the brainstem's motor intentions with the neocortex's social execution, fundamentally impacting how autistic individuals initiate, coordinate, and share physical actions. The Biomechanics of Motor and Affective Integration The foundation of intentional action is rooted in both motor systems and emotional regulation. • Primary Sensori-Motor Errors: Research suggests that early developmental differences in prenatal brainstem growth may cause challenges in integrating sensory information with motor timing. This means that the physical intention to move may require more conscious effort, altering the rhythm and pacing of simple actions, such as walking or reaching. • "Body-Blindness": In some frameworks, differences in how bodily movements are felt and expressed (intercorporeality) can lead to a disconnect where the natural, affective flow of a movement is altered. This impacts how actions are naturally "tuned in" to the environment or a social partner. • Affect as a Tool for Connection and Therapy: Because affective expression is processed differently in autism, traditional social cues might not translate into the same physical or emotional reciprocity. However, affect remains a powerful tool for engagement and therapy: • DIR Floortime: Neurodiversity-Affirming frameworks like the DIR Floortime approach leverage affect—such as enthusiasm, playfulness, and authentic emotional connection—to help children process sensory input. By following the child's lead, caregivers use affect to foster emotional regulation and build circles of communication. • Action Observation and Motor Intent: Studies have explored how motor intention and "mirror chains" (the brain's mechanism for understanding others' actions) function differently in autism. While autistic individuals typically understand the "what" of an observed action, understanding the "why" or emotional intention behind it can sometimes be more challenging. The Role of Imitation and Environment The social and physical environment plays a large role in how affect and movement interact: • Being Imitated: Studies indicate that imitating an autistic child's physical actions recruits neural areas involved in social cognition and helps promote social engagement and play skills. • Customized Engagement: Rather than expecting neurotypical displays of reciprocal affect, it is essential to find how the neurodivergent individual prefers and is able to engage, respecting their unique mind-body connection and sensory needs. Session Learning Outcomes: By the end of this presentation, attendees will be able to: • Analyze the neurodevelopmental relationship between brainstem sensory-motor integration and affective expression in autistic individuals. • Identify at least three clinical signs of "body-blindness" or altered motor timing during intentional movement tasks. • Evaluate how an individual's emotional regulation impacts their ability to initiate and sequence gross and fine motor actions. • Formulate clinical intervention strategies that use authentic affective cueing (e.g., DIR Floortime techniques) to improve motor engagement. • Design modified physical environments that minimize sensory overwhelm to better support intentional motor planning and social reciprocity. 12:45-2:00 PM: Dr. Elizabeth Torres Experiential Workshop; From Research to Practice: Applied Sensory-Motor Integration Workshop Course Description: Building on the theory, research, and scientific foundations introduced in the first presentation, this second session will translate those concepts into an experiential learning opportunity for clinicians. Dr. Elizabeth Torres will guide participants through a more interactive and applied exploration of the Sensory-Motor Integration Lab’s work, using case-based examples and clinical scenarios to help attendees connect emerging research in sensory-motor integration, digital biomarkers, and individualized measurement to everyday assessment and intervention decisions. Through guided discussion, reflection, and application of real-world examples, participants will consider how these research findings may shape clinical observation, communication supports, interdisciplinary collaboration, and person-centered, individualized intervention planning for autism. This session is designed to help clinician learners move beyond understanding the science to actively considering how to apply it in their own practice. Session Learning Outcomes: By the end of this presentation, attendees will be able to: • Apply concepts from sensory-motor integration research to case-based clinical scenarios involving assessment, communication, and intervention planning. • Interpret examples of digital biomarkers and individualized measures as they relate to real-world clinical observation and decision-making. • Analyze how emerging research findings may inform person-centered supports for individuals with neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative conditions, including autism and Parkinson’s disease. • Reflect on opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration in translating sensory-motor research into practical clinical strategies. 2:15-3:30 PM: Rosemary White OTR/L Workshop; Illuminating and Supporting the 'I' in DIR Course Description: Rosemary White OTR/L’s afternoon workshop, "Illuminating and Supporting the 'I' in DIR" explores how clinicians can deeply understand and support a child's Individual Differences (the "I" in the DIR model) through sensoriaffective motor integration and reflective video analysis. The presentation focuses on several core tenets: 1. The Core Philosophy of the "I" • Individual Differences: White emphasizes that true DIR therapy requires looking past a child's diagnosis to recognize their unique biological, sensory, and motor profiles. • Multisensory Processing: The framework highlights how individuals take in and process sensory information (tactile, vestibular, proprioceptive) and how these dictate a child's ability to engage and communicate. 2. Sensoriaffective Motor Integration • Connecting Emotion and Movement: White teaches that affect (emotion) and motor planning are inextricably linked. A child’s ability to feel safe and regulated directly impacts their motor control, and vice-versa. • The "Just Right" Challenge: Clinicians are guided on how to set up environments and interactions that offer just enough motor and sensory challenge to promote growth without causing overwhelm. 3. Reflective Video Feedback Analysis • Micro-Analysis of Interaction: The session relies heavily on reflective video analysis. Guided by Rosemary, clinicians of all stripes will collaboratively review session footage frame-by-frame to observe subtle micro-movements, changes in affect, and sensory responses. • Clinical Observation: This practice allows therapists to track a child's intentions (following their lead), identifying exactly where an interaction breaks down due to sensory overload or motor-planning deficits. • Professional Development: Reviewing this footage helps clinicians adjust their pacing, tone, and body language to better attune to the child's nervous system. Session Learning Outcomes: By the end of this presentation, attendees will be able to: • Analyze and articulate how Individual Differences in sensory processing (tactile, vestibular, proprioceptive) impact a child's capacity for engagement, regulation, and communication within the DIR framework. • Demonstrate understanding of sensoriaffective motor integration by identifying the bidirectional relationship between emotional regulation and motor planning in clinical video examples. • Apply reflective video analysis techniques to identify micro-movements, affective shifts, and sensory responses that reveal a child's intentions and regulatory state. • Recognize breakdown points in therapeutic interactions where sensory overload or motor-planning deficits interrupt a child's engagement and communication attempts. • Evaluate and adjust clinical techniques including pacing, tone, body language, and environmental setup to better attune to each child's unique nervous system needs. • Design "just right" sensory-motor challenges that promote developmental growth while maintaining the child's sense of safety and regulation. • Utilize collaborative video review processes to enhance clinical observation skills and refine therapeutic responsiveness in real-time interactions. • Integrate knowledge of the "I" in DIR to move beyond diagnostic labels and create individualized, sensory-informed intervention strategies. Dr. Elizabeth B. Torres is a tenured Full Professor in the Psychology Department at Rutgers University and the former Director of the New Jersey Autism Center of Excellence (2018–2023). A pioneer in computational neuroscience, she has redefined autism research by focusing on sensory-motor and neuromotor differences rather than behavioral deficits. As Director of the Sensory-Motor Integration Lab (SMIL), she uses mobile health wearables and data algorithms to develop personalized digital biomarkers for real-time tracking of nervous system dynamics. Her work seeks to uncover the neurological basis of autism to support precision medicine and tailored therapies. Author of Autism: The Movement Sensing Perspective , Dr. Torres holds multiple biomedical patents and earned her Ph.D. in Cognitive Science from UC San Diego, followed by post-doctoral research at Caltech. Disclosure: Dr. Elizabeth B. Torres is a paid speaker at ACN 2026 Summit- Toward Neuroharmony: Welcome to the Autism Renaissance. Show More

Caregiver Empowerment. At Autism Community Network, we know the best way to connect with others in the autism community is through fun and play! We offer a variety of programs designed for the whole family. Our Caregiver Empowerment Program aims to fortify the entire caregiver system with kindred relationships and critical knowledge to improve the overall wellness of your family. 02 SibShops SibShops are fun and energetic events that celebrate the many contributions made by brothers and sisters of autistic children. Participants will meet other neurotypical siblings of autistic children while having fun, laughing, and connecting on all aspects of having an autistic sibling. SibShops combine information and discussion activities with fun, high-energy games, food activities, and arts and crafts. SibShops are distinguished from general recreational programs by implementing discussion activities in each session. Discussion activities allow neurotypical siblings a safe space to share their own experiences while a facilitator actively listens and validates their feelings. Sibshops events are typically 2-4 hours long and may have 5-10 participants in each group. They are currently held once per month on the ACN campus. SibShops are designed for school-age children and seek to provide siblings with opportunities for peer support within a fun, recreational context that emphasizes a kids view. We believe that brothers and sisters have much to offer one another if given a chance. SibShops are our commitment to the well-being of the family member most likely to have the longest-lasting relationship with the autistic child. This program is generously supported by Circle Bar Foundation. 01 Camp AUsome! Camp AUsome! provides summer programming for autistic children and their siblings. From play-based camps to learning to code, our camps have it all! Click the link below for more information. Read More 03 Fam Jams ACN's Quarterly Fam Jams are sensory-friendly, neurodiversity-affirming community celebrations for the whole family. We will provide the food, music, and fun. All we need to complete the party is you and your loved ones. For information on our upcoming parties, please follow our event calendar and/or social media. Registration is required. If you or your organization is interested in volunteering at a Fam Jam, please email Katie Benson at katie@acn-sa.org. 04 Caregiver Ambassador Program Each family receiving an autism diagnosis has a different emotional experience. Some families would like a person with lived experience to take their hand as they embark on this new pathway. Our Caregiver Ambassador Program (CAP) connects families new to the autism community with seasoned caregivers. Together, both families can grow in knowledge and lean into each other along their journeys. For more information, follow the link below. Read More 05 Parent Groups Autism Community Network takes pride in offering a range of support groups tailored to the diverse needs of our community. We understand that individuals and families navigating the world of autism and neurodiversity often require different forms of support and guidance. Two of our prominent support groups are the PACT Parent Empowerment Pod (P-PEP) and the Neurture Project, each designed to provide specialized assistance to caregivers at different stages of their journeys. The PACT Parent Empowerment Pod (P-PEP) is an invaluable support group aimed at parents who have already participated in our PACT program. PACT equips parents with essential skills and knowledge to better support their child on the autism spectrum. Following their completion of PACT, parents may find themselves in need of continued support and connection with peers who have shared similar experiences. P-PEP serves as a lifeline, offering a supportive community where these parents can share insights, challenges, and triumphs, fostering a sense of empowerment and resilience. The Neurture Project is another vital support group specifically designed for caregivers of infants and toddlers, including those born during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. The early years are critical for neurodiverse children, and the Neurture Project recognizes the unique needs and concerns that caregivers face during this period. Our support group provides a nurturing space where caregivers can connect, share experiences, and access valuable resources to navigate the uncertainties of raising neurodivergent infants and toddlers, especially in the context of a global health crisis. Both P-PEP and the Neurture Project exemplify Autism Community Network's commitment to providing tailored support that meets the evolving needs of individuals and families affected by autism and neurodiversity. We believe that through these support groups, we can empower caregivers with knowledge, camaraderie, and resilience, fostering a stronger and more inclusive community for all.

Autism Community Network works with a large consortium of donors and healthcare professionals in the San Antonio community to provide quality educational, diagnostic, and therapy services for families and loved ones on the autism spectrum. Thank you to our founders. Founding Donor Kronkosky Foundation The mission of Kronkosky is to produce profound good that is tangible and measurable in Bandera, Bexar, Comal, and Kendall counties in Texas. Kronkosky works on equal footing with nonprofit partners to support vulnerable populations and cultivate vibrant communities throughout the counties we serve. Founding Donor Baptist Health Foundation of San Antonio Baptist Health Foundation of San Antonio is committed to honoring God and their Baptist heritage by fostering and funding health initiatives in our community. Founding Donor Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. is a private, faith-based, not-for-profit organization dedicated to creating access to health care for uninsured and low-income families through direct services, community partnerships and strategic grant-making in 74 counties across South Texas. Founding Donor USAA Foundation, Inc. USAA, USAA Bank and The USAA Foundation, Inc., strive to increase positive impact by providing financial support to organizations that align with our corporate responsibility focus areas. In local communities where USAA has a significant presence of employees, we provide financial support to causes that address needs that align with our local focus areas. Founding Donor Spellman Charitable Fund of The San Antonio Area Foundation The San Antonio Area Foundation serves as your most trusted and impactful philanthropic partner to close opportunity gaps for the people in San Antonio who need it the most. Founding Donor / Capital Campaign - Platinum Valero Energy Foundation The Valero Energy Foundation -- a public charity and Valero's philanthropic arm -- funds nonprofit agencies that serve predominantly disadvantaged children and families. In 2019, the Foundation contributed appoximately $40 million in assistance in the communities where Valero has major operations. Founding Donor Gordon Hartman Family Foundation Gordon Hartman Family Foundation is dedicated to help bring about positive transformation in the lives of our friends with special needs, their families and caregivers. They strive to achieve this by investing their financial support, their time and their energy into organizations that serve individuals with cognitive and physical disabilities. Founding Donor Shield-Ayres Foundation The Shield-Ayres Foundation strengthens organizations that effectively meet the basic human needs of the most vulnerable members of our community, provide access to educational opportunity and the arts, advocate for social justice, and promote land and water conservation. Founding Donor St. Luke's Lutheran Health Ministries St. Luke’s Lutheran Health Ministries, Inc. is a non-profit foundation whose philanthropic focus is funding healthcare ministries that will benefit the San Antonio regional community, including direct and indirect healthcare services (medical, dental, mental health care and protective health services); health education; preventive services; wellness initiatives; and healthcare equipment and supplies that are critical to the delivery of direct care. Founding Donor Zachry Foundation The Zachry Foundation is a private, family foundation in Bexar County, Texas, founded by H. B. Zachry and sustained by family business entities. It seeks to help people improve their lives and communities by contributing to nonprofit organizations in the fields of the arts and humanities, education, health and social services. Founding Donor Myra Stafford Pryor Charitable Trust Myra died in 1943 leaving Frost National Bank as the trustee of her estate valued at $750,000 (over $10 million today) for the purposes of “a trust created for charitable purposes in perpetuity.” Today, this Trust has over $25 million in assets and annually gives over $1 million to charities and non-profit organizations. Among the many wonderful initiatives funded by Myra’s generosity are full time tutors and mentors for San Antonio’s underpriviledged youths, funding for trainers for Guide Dogs of Texas, and new state-of-the-art technology for the Mays Business School at Texas A&M. Her legacy in San Antonio lives on! You are in good company. Donate

Make Referral If you observe early signs of autism or developmental differences in your patients, we're here to help. Submit a referral using the button below to connect families with supportive, neurodiversity-affirming services. Click Here Why Refer to ACN Specialized Early Childhood Diagnostics ACN is dedicated to providing expert care for our families. Our physician, clinicians, and educators have 228 years of combined experience in supporting autistic and/or developmentally different children and families. They provide interdisciplinary and comprehensive play-based evaluations for children ages 0-5. Families who come to ACN receive same-day results and personalized recommendations that are tailored to the specific needs of the entire family. Neurodiversity-Affirming & Trauma-Informed Care ACN is guided by our Experts by Experience Board , a growing group of autistic adults who assure that our practices are in alignment with neurodiversity-affirming care and are responsive to the expressed needs of the community we serve. We work hard to build environments and relationships that feel safe and that honor different kinds of minds. At ACN, we believe that every child has gifts to give and deserves to be understood strengths-based lens. Family-Centered Care At ACN, we believe that parents are the experts in their children. Families are involved every step of the way. We tailor our diagnostic and therapeutic experiences to the specific needs and motivations of each child and family. Our innovative and evidence-based therapies are parent-mediated, which means they empower families! We invite families to join our “herd” through involvement in quality-of-life programs, including SibSHOPS, FAMJAMS, Caregiver Support Group, and Coffee and Connections. Families involved with ACN have a sense of COMMUNITY and a place to call HOME. Mission-Driven, Outcome-Focused As a nonprofit, at ACN our priority is clinical excellence and lasting impact- not profit. Our clinical, educational and quality of life programming is dedicated to creating long-term positive outcomes, or BIG Futures, for the children and families we serve. Our mission is to create a community that recognizes and celebrates the value of our neurodiverse community members and understands the role we can all play in creating an inclusive world. When to Make a Referral This downloadable guide helps providers recognize early signs of autism in young children, including social communication differences, repetitive behaviors, and sensory preferences. It’s also designed to be shared with families—offering clear, compassionate language to support understanding and early action. Use it as a reference tool and a conversation starter for timely referrals to ACN. Download Guide Resources for Families Help families access the full range of ACN’s supportive services—from diagnostic evaluations and quality of life programs to community events and caregiver trainings—by connecting them to our team today. Refer a Family

:Le Brunch des Chapeaux Raffle Items Purchase your Raffle Tickets here! This button connects to our Valero Champions fore Charity link to buy raffle tickets. Click donate to purchase and 100% of your donation comes to us - no fees! Raffle tickets are $25 each or 5 for $100 Luncheon Package #1 Beauty & Bliss The Beauty Package is Always a Favorite! 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The Argyle Sommelier Wine Reception for 20 Guests Hors d' oeuvres for you and your guests, selected by the Argyle's Executive Chef , Valued at $2,000 Trinity Flowers | Flowers Arrangement Valued at $200 Feather, Fluff & Flings | Gift Card for Tablescape Valued at $200 Valued at $2,400 Afterpaty Package #2 Living/Eating Local Enjoy an Assortment of San Antonio's Finest Restaurants. Dine In or Take it Home. This package makes dinner time and social time easy! Adair Kitchen $100 Gift Card Cappy's $100 Gift Card Chris Madrids $125 Gift Card Clementine $100 Gift Card Honey + Pickle $150 Gift Card Ladino $100 Gift Card La Fonda on Main $100 Gift Card Roam & Range $100 Gift Card $1,000 Gift Card to be used at any of the following: Cantina del Rio, Down on Grayson, The Grapevine, Gristmill, Josephine Street or Mozies. Valued at $1,875 Afterparty Package #3 Let's All Fiesta! 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Training. The Autism Community Network is dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with autism and their families through support, education, and advocacy. Our Caregiver Empowerment Program offers training for familial and professional caregivers, medical residents, student clinicians, education professionals, and the wider community to ensure that everyone who interacts with autistic individuals can provide them with the best possible care. 01 Coffee and Connections. Search Check out our quarterly and register! Coffee and Connection is our weekly virtual series that brings together experts in their respective fields to share insights and best practices on popular topics related to autism. From classes such as “Self-Compassion for Caregivers” and “Whisperings of the Sleep Fairy”, our series covers a broad range of important issues to help support autistic individuals and their families. Join us virtually every Friday from 9-10 am and connect with others in the autism community while gaining valuable knowledge and support. 02 Professional Conferences. Our organization is committed to providing a diverse and enriching array of professional conferences to support caregivers and professionals in the field of autism and neurodiversity. Our flagship event, the Annual Summit, is a must-attend gathering featuring expert speakers and a comprehensive program covering a wide spectrum of topics relevant to your work. Whether you prefer virtual or in-person attendance, this event ensures you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in the autism community. For those seeking even more in-depth knowledge, Autism Community Network offers two summer intensive programs, “Neurodiversity University” and “Making ‘Sense’ of Autism.” Both programs delve deeply into the intricacies of autism and neurodiversity. The intensives equip attendees with invaluable insights and strategies to better support individuals on the spectrum. 03 Trainings on Request Search View class offerings At Autism Community Network, we understand the importance of community education and empowerment. We offer a range of training options that can be customized to meet the unique needs of your organization. Whether you require inclusive practices for your business or are seeking continuing education credits, our team can provide comprehensive group training sessions, ensuring that you and your colleagues are equipped with the necessary tools to create more inclusive environments. In addition to our diverse training offerings, we are excited to introduce "My Beautiful Brain," a specialized program designed for neurodiverse youth. This program empowers young individuals to embrace their unique qualities and understand what makes them exceptional. Through a series of engaging and interactive sessions, participants gain self-awareness and a sense of pride in their neurodiversity, fostering a positive self-image and enhancing their self-esteem. Our flexible training sessions can be tailored to your organization's specific needs and schedules, ranging from 30-minute workshops to full-day seminars. Furthermore, our Valero Community Center is available to provide an appropriate and welcoming space for your training and educational needs. We are dedicated to advancing education, awareness, and support in the field of autism and neurodiversity, and we invite you to join us in our mission. 04 Mentorships At Autism Community Network, we place a strong emphasis on mentorship as a cornerstone of professional growth and development in the field of autism and neurodiversity. Our commitment to fostering mentorship opportunities is exemplified through our participation in various programs and initiatives. One such initiative is our collaboration with UTHealth's Profectum DIR BASIC Certification Program, where we actively support and mentor doctoral-level occupational therapy students seeking to obtain certification in the Developmental, Individual Differences, Relationship-based (DIR) model. Our experienced mentors guide aspiring professionals through the certification process, providing invaluable insights and guidance to help them excel in their DIR practice and better serve neurodivergent individuals. In addition to the certification program, we offer mentorship opportunities through our intern and medical residents programs. These programs provide hands-on experience and mentorship for individuals at various stages of their careers, whether they are students, recent graduates, or medical residents specializing in autism-related fields. Through these initiatives, participants gain practical knowledge, refine their skills, and receive guidance from our seasoned professionals, ultimately contributing to the growth of a more knowledgeable and compassionate workforce dedicated to autism and neurodiversity. Our commitment to mentorship underscores our mission to empower individuals to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those affected by autism and related developmental differences. We believe that by nurturing mentorship relationships and fostering a culture of continuous learning, we can create a more inclusive and supportive world for neurodivergent individuals and their families. How to start: Learn more about our training programs. Excited to start learning? Contact us below, and we'll be sure to find the program that fits your specific needs. Enroll Cost of Training Cancellation Policy Cancelling a training requires a 48 hour notice. Our staff are passionate about helping the community. A cancellation may offer another organization the ability to take your place, or open a spot for our staff to work one on one with a family in need. Late Arrivals The policy for late arrivals is program specific, and based on the preferences of your organization and our presenters. If you are going to be late, we ask that you alert the appropriate parties in advance. Cost of training is tailored to your specific needs. For more information, contact Katie Benson at: Katie@acn-sa.org .

The "Every Voice Matters" Panel Time 2:45-4:00 PM Presenter/Facilitator Dr. Carrie Alvarado, PhD, OTR Back to Course List < Back The "Every Voice Matters" Panel This dynamic, interdisciplinary panel brings together speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, parents, and educators to explore the full spectrum of communication methodologies available to ensure that every autistic child can find their "voice." Panelists will discuss: Current Alternative Communication Approaches: An overview of methodologies including spelling-based methods, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), REST, Dynamic Temporal and Tactile Cueing (DTTC), and the role of Developmental, Relationship-Based Interventions (DRBIs) The Critical Role of OT in Praxis Support: How occupational therapists address the motor planning challenges—apraxia and dyspraxia—that often underlie communication difficulties, and why this support is essential for successful implementation of any communication method Where the Research Stands: An honest look at the current evidence base for various approaches, emerging research, and what families and professionals should consider when evaluating options Whole Child Development: Why addressing motor praxis is not separate from communication intervention, but foundational to it—and how siloed approaches can leave children without access to their full potential The Communication Partner's Role: How parents, educators, therapists, and peers can become more effective communication partners by understanding the motor and sensory demands placed on the autistic individual Inclusion and Access: Practical strategies for ensuring that communication support extends beyond the therapy room into classrooms, homes, and community settings. Attendees will leave with a broader understanding of the landscape of communication support, a deeper appreciation for the interconnection between motor systems and expressive communication, and actionable guidance for assembling collaborative teams that honor each child's unique path to voice. Learning Outcomes: Participants will define and expand upon the definitions of apraxia and dyspraxia. Participants will explain the concept of "Whole Child Development" and its importance to their clinical and educational practice. Participants will explain the connection between communication and motor planning. Facilitator: Carrie Alvarado, PhD, OTR Bio : Dr. Carrie Alvarado is an occupational therapist with a PhD in Infant and Early Childhood Development, with an emphasis on mental health and neurodiversity. As Chief Operating Officer and Clinical Director for Autism Community Network, she brings a developmental, relationship-based, and neurodiversity-affirming lens to her work with autistic children, families, and interdisciplinary teams. Dr. Alvarado’s clinical leadership and scholarship center on sensory processing, motor praxis, sensoriaffective integration, emotional praxis, reflective dyadic facilitation and interactive synchrony, with particular attention to how these capacities shape social communication, engagement, participation, and emotional regulation in autism. Her extensive DIRFloortime training and mentorship with Rosemary White, along with her training in Pediatric Autism Communication Therapy and iBASIS/Inklings, inform her facilitation of thoughtful dialogue across research, clinical practice, and lived experience. Disclosure: Carrie Alvarado is a salaried employee of Autism Community Network. Show More