This conference will feature Keynotes speakers Dr. Karen Levine, who will discuss her book “Attacking Anxiety” and her approach to treating anxiety and phobias in children with autism, and Ron Suskind, author of the documentary “Life Animated”, will share his thoughts on this family biography.
There will also be exhibitors, workshops and information on autism in Western Massachusetts. Network with other professionals and families, connect with local service providers and learn about a variety of topics.
Fees apply, registration is required to or contact 413-529-2428, x111.
About the speakers:
Dr. Levine is a Licensed Psychologist who holds an academic appointment as Lecturer in Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School and as Adjunct Faculty, Lesley University. She was the co-founder and co-director of the Boston Children’s Hospital Autism Program in the late 1980’s, of the Building Blocks Specialty Service Provider program, where she continues to provide consultation, and of the Spotlight program of the Northeast ARC in the late 1990’s.
Ron Suskind is a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and bestselling author whose latest book, Life, Animated (2014), chronicles his family’s twenty-year journey raising and connecting to their autistic son. The Suskinds are also the subject of an award-winning documentary feature of the same name (2016). Their story has driven activism and research about the compensatory strengths of those with autism and others who are “differently-abled” due to distinctive neurology or sociocultural backgrounds. Ron’s company, Sidekicks, is leading efforts to build a next generation of augmentative technologies to lift and support these communities.
General Registration
Registration: $125/person
Parent/Caregiver/Individual on the Spectrum
Registration: $75/person
A limited number of scholarships are available for $35. Please call Katie for more information at 413-529-2428, x111.
The Log Cabin
500 Easthampton Road
Holyoke, MA 01040