This workshop provides an in-depth look at criminal justice and legal proceedings related to autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders. Through case examples and group participation, attendees will learn specific tactics that can be helpful when encountering someone who is stimming, hallucinating, naked, hesitating or in crisis. Parents and health and law enforcement professionals in attendance will gain a working knowledge of these disorders, enabling them to achieve the best outcome for everyone involved in a potentially volatile situation.
The sessions will illustrate the clinical features of autism and neurodevelopmental challenges with regard to behavior, social interactions, sensory triggers, and decision-making. Correlations will be made between the legal involvement an individual may experience as a witness, suspect or victim of a crime and the many misconceptions about this population that currently exist.
By becoming familiar with this population and learning practical communication strategies, those in attendance will be able to manage stressful situations before they escalate into a full-blown crisis. Just as each emergency differs from the next, so does the individual involved, especially with regard to autism spectrum and neurodevelopmental challenges. This is particularly important for police officers who encounter a multitude of individuals facing emergencies each day.
Dr. Nancy Musarra, Ph.D, CMPC, LPCC, AT is a licensed clinical psychologist with more than 17 years of clinical experience specializing in psychological/forensic assessments and intervention strategies for juveniles and adults involved in the municipal and county court systems. She offers consultations to parents regarding strength based interventions for children diagnosed with neurodevelopmental disorders. Dr. Musarra offers a variety of workshops. Her workshops aim to bridge gaps between parents and professionals, research findings and clinical applications, and forensic issues related to “real-life” experiences within the criminal justice system. Dr. Musarra has lectured in the United States and Europe to parents, educators, law enforcement and mental health professionals. She is the author of The New Normal: Seven Things to Know as you Care for and Love a Child with Special Needs, available on Amazon.com.www.drnancymusarra.com.
Schedule
8:45am - 9am - Registration and Continental breakfast
9 am - Presentation Begins
10:30 am - 15 minute break
12 pm - 1 pm - Lunch on your own
1pm - Presentation resumes
2pm - 15 min break
3pm - Presentation ends