For Professionals

For a list of upcomg professional workshops click here This free workshop is designed for professionals who are new to the field of autism. Topics for discussion include an in-depth overview of the diagnostic criteria for autism, Asperger’s Disorder, and PDD-NOS as well as a brief discussion of treatment strategies and components for an effective educational program. The Overview of Autism lecture is presented three times per year by COSAC staff in the northern, central, and southern regions of New Jersey. Provided by COSAC and upon request, topic lectures are designed for professionals who are familiar with autism and behavioral teaching techniques. Topics include but are not limited to: effective classroom design, functional behavior assessment, meaningful educational assessments, teaching strategies, functional academics, toileting, feeding, and issues in adolescence. These lectures are presented multiple times per year across the state. Lectures are presented by COSAC staff or guest speakers who have expertise on the specific topic. For more information about upcoming workshops, please see the links below. Provided upon request, this workshop provides agencies with a better understanding of autism and behavioral teaching techniques. Workshop attendees may participate in group activities and role play in order to enhance their understanding of the didactic material. Both the content and duration of these workshops can be tailored to meet the needs of the requesting agency or school. On-site workshops are available for free to DDD-funded agencies and on a fee-for-service basis for other agencies. Professional IEP Clinic Workshops will afford professionals the opportunity to learn the components of an IEP, as specified by the New Jersey Administrative Code 6A:14, and how to evaluate your students’ IEPs.  We also will discuss strategies to increase collaboration between IEP team members.  This workshop is eligible for DOE Continuing Education Units. Transition Planning Professional Workshops will afford professional the opportunity to learn about the required components of the IEP for children ages 14 and older.  Transition Planning is an integral part of preparing young students for independence after leaving the school setting.  Federal and State laws require that school districts deliver transition services to children during their teenage years. One of the largest autism-related conferences in the nation, Issues in Autism draws more than 1,400 attendees over a two-day period. With more than 60 workshops, 50 exhibitors, an informative Poster Session, an Awards Presentation & Reception, and more, Issues in Autism provides educational opportunities for parents and professionals alike. Professional Development Hours through the NJ Department of Education are available for teachers. Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) and Board Certified Associate Behavior Analysts (BCABAs) are eligible to earn BACB Type 2 CEs for qualifying workshops as COSAC is an approved CE provider.  This event is held each spring at the Atlantic City Convention Center in Atlantic City, NJ. For more information about the conference, click here.   “COSAC sends information about these workshops and the annual conference for free to all who are interested. For more information, please join our Mailing List for up-to-date information on upcoming events and visit the Workshop and Events section.   Also, be sure to visit the Community Calendar page to read about the most current trainingopportunities available.” To learn more about workshops and other training opportunities, please contact COSAC’s Clinical Department: 609-883-8100 extension 13. To join COSAC’s Professional Mailing List, please contact Carol Cox: 609-883-8100 extension 23 or [email protected].