School Avoidance:  Guidance for Parents and Caregivers Navigating School Challenges

October 29, 2025

Join psychologists Dr. Jonathan Dalton and Dr. Cynthia Schulmeyer for a discussion of the evidence-based treatment of school avoidance in autistic students, with a focus on the fundamental different role that accommodations play in autistic and allistic students. The presentation will address

• The difference between anxiety and dread
• The role of autistic burnout, cognitive overload, and overstimulation in school avoidance
• The role of PDA presentations in students who avoid school

Dr. Dalton and Dr. Schulmeyer will offer specific guidance on partnering effectively with school-based professionals to help children re-enter and remain in school.

About the presenters:

Dr. Jonathan Dalton is a licensed psychologist who is the founder and director of the Center for Anxiety and Behavioral Change (CABC) in Rockville, MD.  He received his undergraduate degree in psychology from Villanova University, a master’s degree in psychology from The Catholic University of America, and a doctorate in clinical psychology from Fordham University with a specialization in child and family psychology. He completed two years of pre-doctoral training at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine – Kennedy Krieger Institute, and advanced postdoctoral training at the Maryland Center for Anxiety Disorders at the University of Maryland. He specializes in the treatment of anxiety disorders in children and teens, with a focus on anxiety-based school refusal. He believes strongly in the importance of public outreach and frequently presents to student bodies, educators, mental health professionals, and community groups on the treatment of anxiety and related disorders.

Dr. Cynthia Schulmeyer is the Coordinator for Psychological Services with the Howard County Public School System.  She has served in that role for over twenty years and the twelve years prior she was a school-based school psychologist.  Dr. Schulmeyer’s areas of professional interest include supporting students with disabilities in the school setting, team-based decision-making, supervision, suicide prevention, crisis intervention, and threat management.  She has presented at local and national professional conferences, taught at both the Towson University and University of Maryland graduate school psychology training programs, and served on the boards of multiple professional organizations.  Tonight’s information is from the shared experiences of the HCPSS school psychologists.

• Watch the Video
• Slide Deck – Dr. Schulmeyer
• Slide Deck – Dr. Jonathan Dalton

Evitación escolar:  Orientación para padres y cuidadores que enfrentan desafíos escolares 
29 de octubre de 2025 

Únete a los psicólogos Dr. Jonathan Dalton y la Dra. Cynthia Schulmeyer para una discusión sobre el tratamiento basado en evidencia de la evitación escolar en estudiantes autistas, con un enfoque en el papel fundamentalmente diferente que tienen las adaptaciones en estudiantes autistas yLa diferencia entre ansiedad y temor 

• La diferencia entre ansiedad y temor 
• El papel del agotamiento autista, la sobrecarga cognitiva y la sobreestimulación en la evitación escolar 
• El papel de las manifestaciones de PDA (Evitación Patológica de Demandas) en los estudiantes que evitan la escuela 

El Dr. Dalton y el Dr. Schulmeyer ofrecerán orientación específica sobre cómo asociarse de manera efectiva con los profesionales escolares para ayudar a los niños a reincorporarse y permanecer en la escuela. 

•  Mira el video

Acerca de los presentadores: 

El Dr. Jonathan Daltones un psicólogo con licencia que es el fundador y director del Centro para la Ansiedad y el Cambio Conductual (CABC) en Rockville, MD. Obtuvo su licenciatura en psicología en la Universidad de Villanova, una maestría en psicología en la Universidad Católica de América y un doctorado en psicología clínica de la Universidad de Fordham con una especialización en psicología infantil y familiar. Completó dos años de formación predoctoral en la Escuela de Medicina Johns Hopkins – Instituto Kennedy Krieger, y formación postdoctoral avanzada en el Centro de Trastornos de Ansiedad de Maryland en la Universidad de Maryland. Se especializa en el tratamiento de trastornos de ansiedad en niños y adolescentes, con un enfoque en la negativa escolar basada en la ansiedad. Cree firmemente en la importancia de la divulgación pública y frecuentemente realiza presentaciones ante cuerpos estudiantiles, educadores, profesionales de la salud mental y grupos comunitarios sobre el tratamiento de la ansiedad y trastornos relacionados. 

La Dra. Cynthia Schulmeyeres la Coordinadora de Servicios Psicológicos del Sistema Escolar Público del Condado de Howard. Ha desempeñado ese cargo durante más de veinte años y, los doce años anteriores, fue psicóloga escolar basada en escuelas. Las áreas de interés profesional de la Dra. Schulmeyer incluyen el apoyo a estudiantes con discapacidades en el entorno escolar, la toma de decisiones en equipo, la supervisión, la prevención del suicidio, la intervención en crisis y la gestión de amenazas. Ha presentado en conferencias profesionales locales y nacionales, ha enseñado en los programas de formación en psicología de posgrado de la Universidad de Towson y de la Universidad de Maryland, y ha formado parte de las juntas de múltiples organizaciones profesionales. La información proporcionada esta noche proviene de las experiencias compartidas de los psicólogos escolares de HCPSS. 

• Mira el vídeo  

Back-to-School Butterflies?A few tips for parents to ease YOUR anxiety (August 2024)

This webinar, co-hosted by special education advocates Beth Benevides and Beth Ann Hancock, will offer practical tips and strategies for a fresh start to the new school year. Parents and guardians will learn how to communicate successfully with their child’s team and how to create their own progress monitoring system. (No surprises this year on your child’s progress!) Speakers: Beth Benevides, Hussman Institute for Autism; Beth Ann Hancock, Charting the Course, LLC

• Watch the Video
• Slide Deck

 Back-To-School Bootcamp for Parents and Guardians (August 2022)

May

2024 Annual Meeting with Howard County Public Schools Dept. of Special Education

Tracking IEP Progress Mid Year

My Child Has Been Diagnosed With Autism. What’s Next?: Brown Bag Workshop
December 13, 2023

Speakers: Marlo Lemon and Kristen Paul, Parents’ Place of Maryland

Description:

Marlo Lemon and Kristen Paul from the Parents’ Place of Maryland share initial steps to consider after receiving an early childhood Autism diagnosis. The presenters share information about local resources and services that can be helpful after a diagnosis.

Sponsored by the Autism Society of Maryland and Pathfinders for Autism.

Presented by  Pathfinders for Autism and the Autism Society of Maryland  

Video

PowerPoint Slides

How to Track Your Child’s IEP Progress: 3 Easy Steps?  

Como mantenerse al tanto con el progreso del Plan Educativo?

In this one-hour webinar/workshop led by Beth Benevides, a Special Education parent advocate, parents and guardians learn how to take control of tracking their child’s IEP progress.

August 2023

Speakers/Presentadores:

Elizabeth Benevides, Special Education Advocate

The Hussman Institute and Autism Society

Video – Espanol

Video – English

CLICK for slide deck

Update on the Maryland Autism Waiver / Actualización sobre la exención de autismo de Maryland

February 22, 2023

Speakers/Presentadores:

Sheri Weisman LCSW, C-ASWCM, Autism Waiver Svc. Coordinator, The Coordinating Center

Daniel Hammond, Autism Waiver Coordinator, Mont. County Public Schools

Description:

How will legislated changes impact the Maryland Autism Waiver’s services, supports and waiting list? Our speakers, who oversee Autism Waiver coordination in Howard, Harford and Montgomery Counties, will discuss important changes coming to the Waiver, plans to reduce that wait list, and what that means for children and families in our state. They also give background and information on the services and supports offered through the waiver. 

Co-sponsored by the Autism Society of Maryland and xMinds (Partnership for Extraordinary Minds) . Questions? 410-290-3466 or info@autismsocietymd.org.

¿Cómo afectarán los cambios legislativos los servicios, apoyos y lista de espera de la Exención de Autismo de Maryland?

Nuestros presentadores, quienes supervisan la coordinación de la exención de autismo en los condados de Howard, Harford y Montgomery, discuten los cambios importantes que se avecinan para la exención, los planes para reducir esa lista de espera y lo que eso significa para los niños y las familias en nuestro estado. También cubren información importante sobre la Exención de Autismo, incluyendo cómo calificar y registrarse, y qué servicios están cubiertos,

Copatrocinado por la Sociedad de Autismo del Condado de Howard y xMinds (Partnership for Extraordinary Minds/Asociación para mentes extraordinarias).

Video – Espanol

Video – English

PowerPoint Slides

Autism and Executive Function: Brown Bag Workshop

January 26, 2023

Speaker: Paula Moraine, M.Ed.

Description:
This presentation will be about the executive functions, but more importantly, there will be detailed suggestions for how to access and strengthen these functions specifically for the autistic individual. The ideas shared will be simple, direct, and applicable for home and school.

Presented by  Pathfinders for Autism and the Autism Society of Maryland  

Video

PowerPoint Slides

Alternative Service Delivery Model (ASDM) – September 9, 2020

Beth Benevides, Autism Society of Maryland, Leslie Seid Margolis, Dsability Rights Maryland, and Patricia Gunshore, HCPSS

Compensatory Education/Recovery Services (April 20, 2021)

Presenters: Beth Benevides, AUSOM & The Hussman Institute and Trish Gunshore, HCPSS Depart. of Special Education

An informational webinar for parents and families on IEP implementation and compensatory education/recovery services for students who have an Individualized Education Program (ages 3-21). As students return to in-person learning, a team will evaluate your child’s progress—considering progress prior to the COVID19 school closures, during the closures and virtual learning, and present levels to determine if compensatory education/recovery services are required. This webinar will review frequently asked questions and provide guidance on how parents can prepare for discussions with their IEP/school team.

Hosted by the HCPSS Department of Special Education, Special Education Community Advisory Committee, and the Autism Society of Maryland.

CLICK for Notes

CLICK to Watch Recording

Extended School Year (ESY): What to Expect in 2021 (February 9, 2021)

A two-part webinar in the Parent Empowerment Series sponsored by HCPSS Department of Special Education, SECAC, and HCAS  

PART 1:   What is ESY, Who is Eligible, and What are the Plans for 2021?

Part 1 will be a presentation of information on:

*  Extended School Year (ESY) services offered through HCPSS
*  Eligibility criteria
*  The timeline for ESY eligibility meetings and determinations
*  ESY 2021 details – when, where, how (hybrid or in-person)

Presenters:

Janice Yetter – Director, Department of Special Education, HCPSS

Marcella Randall – ESY Consultant, HCPSS

PART 2:  Parent Participation in ESY Planning / Q&A

Part 2 will offer tips to help parents prepare for ESY discussions, including:

*  Information to document and share at the meeting
* How to prioritize goals
*  Questions to ask during the ESY meeting

Presenters:

Beth Benevides – Parent Advocate, Autism Society of Maryland / Hussman Institute for Autism

Leslie Seid Margolis – Managing Attorney, Disability Rights Maryland

Janice Yetter – Director, Department of Special Education, HCPSS

Individualized Education Plan (IEP) Presentation (Sept. 2018)

Download Notes

The IEP Process During Virtual Learning (Sept. 9, 2020)

 (HCPSS Parent Empowerment Conference)

Beth Benevides, Autism Society of Maryland, Leslie Seid Margolis, Dsability Rights Maryland, and Patricia Gunshore, HCPSS

Download Notes 

Homeschooling Children with Special Education Needs: Important Implications

with Leslie Seid Margolis, Managing Attorney, Disability Rights Maryland and Patricia Gunshore, HCPSS (7/22/2020)
Download Notes | Watch Video

Back-To-School Bootcamp for Parents and Guardians (August 2022)

Get practical tips and strategies for families with children receiving Special Education services in Pre-K through Grade 5 (August 22, 2022) and Middle & High School (August 23, 2022). Put these tips and strategies into place NOW to help ensure a successful school year.

Speaker:  Beth Benevides, Director of Outreach, Hussman Institute for Autism

Watch Video  – PreK th. 5th Grade
Watch Video- Middle & High School (Coming Soon!)

Slide Deck -PreK th. 5th Grade

Slide Deck – Middle & High School 

Preparing for the Return of School

August 30, 2021

Special Education During COVID-19 (May 26, 2020)

by Leslie Seid Margolis, Managing Attorney, Disability Rights Maryland
Download Notes | Watch Video

Supplementary Aids and Services in the Virtual Environment

Families often mention the lack of follow through or “adaptation” of certain supplementary aids and services in the virtual environment. This webinar addresses:

-The importance of supplementary aids and services for student success
-The legal requirements behind this section of the IEP and ASDM plan
-Tips on how to address issues with teachers and the IEP team
-Ideas on specific kinds of accommodations for virtual learning

Speakers:

Brown Bag Workshop – Alternatives to Guardianship

December 10, 2025

When do you or your family members need a guardian? When are the alternatives to guardianship appropriate? Participants will learn about guardianship alternatives including advanced health care directives, powers of attorney and surrogate decision making. Jim will walk participants through case examples and answer your questions about decision making for individuals with disabilities.

Sponsored by Pathfinders for Autism and the Autism Society of Maryland

QUESTIONS? Contact the Autism Society of Maryland at 410-290-3466 or info@autismsocietymd.org

Presented by: James Silver, Esq. Managing Director, Adult Guardianship Division, Maryland Legal Aid

James Silver is a Supervising Attorney at Maryland Legal Aid, specializing in Adult Guardianship. Jim is a 2007 cum laude graduate from American University – The Washington College of Law and a 1997 graduate from New York University. He spent 16 years practicing special education and disability law, as well as handling complex guardianship litigation and creating alternatives to guardianship. He also serves as co-editor on the updated handbook, Guardianship & Its Alternatives, soon to be published by The University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law and the Maryland State Bar Association. Before beginning his legal career, Jim served in the Peace Corps and had a five-year career as a journalist in Northern Virginia. Outside of work, he enjoys finding new recipes and cooking for his wife and two daughters.

• Watch the Video
• View the Slide Deck

Taller “Brown Bag” Alternativas a la Tutela
10 de diciembre de 2025

• ¿Cuándo tu o un miembro de tu familia necesitan un tutor legal?
• ¿Cuándo son apropiadas las alternativas a la tutela?

Los participantes aprenderán sobre las alternativas a la tutela, incluyendo directivas anticipadas de atención médica, poderes notariales y toma de decisiones por sustituto. Jim guiará a los participantes a través de ejemplos de casos y responderá preguntas sobre la toma de decisiones para personas con discapacidades. 

Patrocinado por Pathfinders for Autism y la Sociedad de Autismo de Maryland 

Presentador:

James Silver, Esq. 

Abogado Supervisor, Programa de Tutela para Adultos 

James Silver es abogado supervisor en Maryland Legal Aid (Asistencia Legal de Maryland), especializado en Tutela de Adultos. Jim se graduó cum laude en 2007 de American University – The Washington College of Law y en 1997 de la New York University.  Ha dedicado 16 años a la práctica del derecho de educación especial y discapacidad, así como a la gestión de litigios complejos de tutela y la creaxion de alternativas a la tutela. También es coeditor del manual actualizado, Guardianship & Its Alternatives (La Tutela y sus alternativas), que será publicado por la University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law y la Maryland State Bar Association. Antes de comenzar su carrera legal, Jim sirvió en el Cuerpo de Paz (Peace Corps) y trabajo durante cinco años como periodista en el norte de Virginia. Fuera del trabajo, disfruta descubrir nuevas recetas y cocinar para su esposa y sus dos hijas. 

• Mira el video

2022 Transition Symposium Webinar Series

Session #1: Charting the LifeCourse
February 17, 2022

Speaker: Mary Anne Kane Breschi, Director of Family Supports, Developmental Disabilities Administration, Maryland Department of Health

Description:  Charting the LifeCourse is a framework designed to help transitioning youth of all abilities, their families and the professionals who work with them develop a vision for a fulfilling life and how to get there.  CtLC principles and tools focus on improving communication, goal setting, and problem solving; identifying and connection with community services and supports; developing self-advocacy skills; and laying out a person-centered plan for the future.

Watch the Video

Slides – Charting The Life Course

CtLC Vision Tool – Family Perspective

CtLC Integrate Support Star

CtLC Life Trajectory Family Perspective-Planning

CtLC Framework Principles

CtLC Life Trajectory Set Letter-Exploring

CtLC Life Trajectory Set Letter – Planning

CtLC Nexus Focus on Transition To Adulthood

CtLC Nexus – Website and Resources SPANISH

CtLC Nexus – Website and Resources ENGLISH (other languages available from the drop-down meny)

2022 Transition Symposium Webinar Series

Session #2: Setting Students Up for Success
March 15, 2022

Speaker: Stacey Herman – Assistant Vice President of Neurodiversity and Community Workforce Development, Kennedy Krieger Institute

Panelists: Kathy Land, Supervisor, Service Coordination, Inc. Meghan Smallwood, Transition Specialist, Howard County Public School System, Beth Benevides, Parent/Advocate

Description: The presentation will outline the steps and resources to help transition-age youth with disabilities who are still in school to prepare for the next stage of their lives. A panel discussion will follow with individuals from service agencies, a school system transition specialist, and a parent/advocate. The panel members will share their perspectives on the transition process from school to adult life and their insights from assisting youth with the transition.

Watch the Video

Slides – Setting Students Up for Success

2022 Transition Symposium Webinar Series

Session #3: Employment First
April 22, 2022

Speaker: Karen Lee – Executive Director, Supporting Employment Equality and Community (SEEC)

Panelists:
Melissa Rosenberg, Autism Society of Maryland / Autism Hiring Program,
Doris Jacobs, Manager, Howard County Youth Employment Services, Humanim
Bradley Wilson, 2021 graduate, Project Search

Description: The speaker’s presentation addresses the strategies and considerations associated with promoting, building and supporting acceptance, inclusion, and neurodiversity in the workplace and community. A panel discussion follows with representatives from Supporting Employment Equality and Community (SEEC), the Howard County Autism Hiring Program, Humanim, and a graduate of Project SEARCH, an employment training program for transitioning youth with disabilities.

Watch the Video

Slides – Employment First

2022 Transition Symposium Webinar Series

Session #4:You Can Get SSI and Medical Assistance, Go to Work…and Live to Tell About It
May 24, 2022

Speaker: Michael Dalto – Benefits Consultant, High Note Consulting, LLC

Description:
What are these benefits programs, how to apply, and are they appropriate for you or your young adult with a disability? Learn about the Social Security Administration’s Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid, and Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) and their significance for transitioning youth as they enter adulthood and make a life for
themselves after school.

Presented by the Howard County Transition Outreach Partnership: Accessible Resources for Independence, Howard County Public School System, Autism Society of Howard County, Howard County Recreation & Parks, The Arc Howard County, Howard County Department of Community Resources and Services and NAMI Howard County.

This presentation is separated into 2 parts:

Watch Video part 1
Watch Video part 2

PowerPoint Slides

Transitions/DORS

Download Notes

Autism Diagnosis in Adulthood
June 18, 2025

Speakers: Dr. Vince Culotta and Dr. Meghan Jorgenson

September 23, 2024

A revealing session that promises to enlighten you with the do’s, the don’ts and what to be aware of if your loved one is arrested. Panelists represent public safety, parents, autistics, attorney’s and community members who will share their stories, best practices and advice on what to do if your child/autistic adult is arrested. There is great strength in knowledge from the experienced. So let’s build a community of knowledgeable support for positive outcomes.

Moderator: Carlean Ponder, Autism Society of America, Social Justice Center

Panelists:

Brian Kelmar , Parent of an Autistic son. President, and Cofounder of  Decriminalize Developmental Disabilities, Richmond, VA

Kimber D.  Watts, Supervising Attorney, Forensic Mental Health Division, Office of Public Defender, State of Maryland

Deana Krizan, Director of Compliance and Organizational Development, Baltimore Crisis Center

Jeremiah Josey, Self-Advocate, and Simone Greggs, Jeremiah’s Mom

Darian Senn-Carter, Ed.D., Director, Homeland Security and Criminal Justice Institute, School of Business and Law, Anne Arundel Community College

CLICK for Video (English)

CLICK for Video (Spanish)

Resource List

Slides: Baltimore Crisis Response

Slides: Decriminalize Developmental Disabilities (D3)

Resource List: Brian Kelmar

Self Love for Self Advocates

SESSION 2: So You Wanna Make Online Friends: How to Safely Navigate the Online World

June 20, 2024 

SESSION 3: Embracing Neurodiversity: Getting To Know Your Brain

October 22, 2024 

Dating & Relationships for Self-Advocates

October 24, 2023

Looking for advice and education on how to prepare for and find a dating partner? Presenter Steven Isaacson, LMSW (he/him), himself a self-advocate, walks you through the first steps to reducing the stigma and learning where your thoughts and feelings on  this topic come from.

Video – English

Video – Spanish

Slides

The Housing Crisis for Adults with Disabilities: A Panel Discussion

September 14, 2021

Housing Meeting (February, 2020)

Download Notes

MD Partnership for Affordable Housing (February, 2020)

Download Notes

Accessible Resources for Independence (ARI) & Room Surf Presentation

(February, 2020)

Download Notes

Brown Bag Workshop – Alternatives to Guardianship

December 10, 2025c

When do you or your family members need a guardian? When are the alternatives to guardianship appropriate?

• Participants will learn about guardianship alternatives including advanced health care directives, powers of attorney and surrogate decision making.
• Jim will walk participants through case examples and answer your questions about decision making for individuals with disabilities.

Sponsored by Pathfinders for Autism and the Autism Society of Maryland

QUESTIONS? Contact the Autism Society of Maryland at 410-290-3466 or info@autismsocietymd.org

Presented by: James Silver, Esq. Managing Director, Adult Guardianship Division, Maryland Legal Aid

James Silver is a Supervising Attorney at Maryland Legal Aid, specializing in Adult Guardianship. Jim is a 2007 cum laude graduate from American University – The Washington College of Law and a 1997 graduate from New York University. He spent 16 years practicing special education and disability law, as well as handling complex guardianship litigation and creating alternatives to guardianship. He also serves as co-editor on the updated handbook, Guardianship & Its Alternatives, soon to be published by The University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law and the Maryland State Bar Association. Before beginning his legal career, Jim served in the Peace Corps and had a five-year career as a journalist in Northern Virginia. Outside of work, he enjoys finding new recipes and cooking for his wife and two daughters.

• Watch Video
• View Slide Deck

Supported Decision-Making: An Alternative to Guardianship  –  Virtual
October 27, 2022

WATCH the Video

Slide Deck

What Is Your Life Plan?  –  Virtual
January 19, 2022

Part 1 of a two-part series for parents and guardians to think through the process of planning for the day when they are no longer there to care for their loved one.  Presenters walk you through the initial steps to plan and communicate your vision for your loved ones future, as well as working through the practical considerations.  This is part one of a two-part series (part two to be offered in late spring 2022)

Topics covered:

• Letter of Intent: how to communicate your desires for your young person and include important details to share with all future caregivers after your death
• Wills and Special Needs Trusts – where to begin?
• Guardianship /Alternatives to Guardianship – what’s the difference?
• Maryland ABLE Account – what is it and how can it benefit your loved one?
• Other important but difficult topics to think through

Speakers:
Jim Curran and Monty Knittle, Curran Knittle Group, Harbor Investment Advisory
Kelly Nelson, Maryland ABLE
Mary O’Byrne, O’Byrne Law LLC

Watch the Video

Materials:
PPT  – Maryland ABLE
PPT – Curran Knittle Group
PPT – O’Byrne Law
Letter of Intent (Template)

What is Your Life Plan? – Part 2

June 14, 2022

Speakers:
James Curran and Monty Knittle, Curran Knittle Group – Harbor Investment Advisory
Mary O’Byrne, O’Byrne Law, LLC
Kelly Nelson, Maryland ABLE

Description:

Part 2 of a two-part series for parents and guardians to think through the process of planning for the day when they are no longer there to care for their loved one.  We’ll take the next steps to help you plan and communicate your vision for your loved one’s future, as well as how to work through the practical considerations.

You can review the recording of Part 1 of the series and supporting materials HERE

Topics to be covered:

• Letter of Intent: how to communicate your desires for your young person and include important details to share with future caregivers after your death
• Wills and Special Needs Trusts – Where to begin?
• Guardianship /Alternatives to Guardianship – What’s the difference?
• Maryland ABLE Account – What is it and how can it benefit your loved one?
• Other important but difficult topics

This presentation is separated into 2 parts:

Watch Video part 2
Watch Video part 1

Slide Deck – Guardianship (Mary O’Byrne)

Special Needs Planning – Caring for all of your Family Members

(January, 2018)
Download Notes

Dept. of Disabilities Administration (DDA) 101 (June, 2018)

Download Notes

DDA 101 Integrated Support Star Worksheet

(June, 2018)
Download Notes Part 1 | Download Notes Part 2

DDA 101 Life Course Infographic

(June, 2018)
Download Notes

DDA — HCBS Waivers Overview

(February, 2018)

Download Notes

DDA Low Intensity Support Services – LISS

(June, 2017)

Download Notes

Division of Rehabilatation Services (DORS) Transitioning to Adulthood

Download Notes

Maryland Autism Waver

Download Notes

Update on the MD Autism Waiver During COVID-19 and Beyond

with Sheri Weissman, LCSW, C-ASWCM, July 2020
Download Notes | Watch Video

SSI & SSDI for Young Adults with Disabilities

(May, 2020)

by Michael Dalto (PPT & Video of Webinar)
Download Notes | Video Link #1 | Video Link #2 | Video Link #3

Taller “Brown Bag” Alternativas a la Tutela

10 de diciembre de 2025

• ¿Cuándo tu o un miembro de tu familia necesitan un tutor legal?
• ¿Cuándo son apropiadas las alternativas a la tutela?

Los participantes aprenderán sobre las alternativas a la tutela, incluyendo directivas anticipadas de atención médica, poderes notariales y toma de decisiones por sustituto. Jim guiará a los participantes a través de ejemplos de casos y responderá preguntas sobre la toma de decisiones para personas con discapacidades. 

Patrocinado por Pathfinders for Autism y la Sociedad de Autismo de Maryland 

Presentador:

James Silver, Esq. 

Abogado Supervisor, Programa de Tutela para Adultos 

James Silver es abogado supervisor en Maryland Legal Aid (Asistencia Legal de Maryland), especializado en Tutela de Adultos. Jim se graduó cum laude en 2007 de American University – The Washington College of Law y en 1997 de la New York University.  Ha dedicado 16 años a la práctica del derecho de educación especial y discapacidad, así como a la gestión de litigios complejos de tutela y la creaxion de alternativas a la tutela. También es coeditor del manual actualizado, Guardianship & Its Alternatives (La Tutela y sus alternativas), que será publicado por la University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law y la Maryland State Bar Association. Antes de comenzar su carrera legal, Jim sirvió en el Cuerpo de Paz (Peace Corps) y trabajo durante cinco años como periodista en el norte de Virginia. Fuera del trabajo, disfruta descubrir nuevas recetas y cocinar para su esposa y sus dos hijas. 

•  Mira el video

Evitación escolar:  Orientación para padres y cuidadores que enfrentan desafíos escolares 
29 de octubre de 2025 

Únete a los psicólogos Dr. Jonathan Dalton y la Dra. Cynthia Schulmeyer para una discusión sobre el tratamiento basado en evidencia de la evitación escolar en estudiantes autistas, con un enfoque en el papel fundamentalmente diferente que tienen las adaptaciones en estudiantes autistas yLa diferencia entre ansiedad y temor 

• La diferencia entre ansiedad y temor 
• El papel del agotamiento autista, la sobrecarga cognitiva y la sobreestimulación en la evitación escolar 
• El papel de las manifestaciones de PDA (Evitación Patológica de Demandas) en los estudiantes que evitan la escuela 

El Dr. Dalton y el Dr. Schulmeyer ofrecerán orientación específica sobre cómo asociarse de manera efectiva con los profesionales escolares para ayudar a los niños a reincorporarse y permanecer en la escuela. 

 Acerca de los presentadores: 

El Dr. Jonathan Daltones un psicólogo con licencia que es el fundador y director del Centro para la Ansiedad y el Cambio Conductual (CABC) en Rockville, MD. Obtuvo su licenciatura en psicología en la Universidad de Villanova, una maestría en psicología en la Universidad Católica de América y un doctorado en psicología clínica de la Universidad de Fordham con una especialización en psicología infantil y familiar. Completó dos años de formación predoctoral en la Escuela de Medicina Johns Hopkins – Instituto Kennedy Krieger, y formación postdoctoral avanzada en el Centro de Trastornos de Ansiedad de Maryland en la Universidad de Maryland. Se especializa en el tratamiento de trastornos de ansiedad en niños y adolescentes, con un enfoque en la negativa escolar basada en la ansiedad. Cree firmemente en la importancia de la divulgación pública y frecuentemente realiza presentaciones ante cuerpos estudiantiles, educadores, profesionales de la salud mental y grupos comunitarios sobre el tratamiento de la ansiedad y trastornos relacionados. 

 La Dra. Cynthia Schulmeyeres la Coordinadora de Servicios Psicológicos del Sistema Escolar Público del Condado de Howard. Ha desempeñado ese cargo durante más de veinte años y, los doce años anteriores, fue psicóloga escolar basada en escuelas. Las áreas de interés profesional de la Dra. Schulmeyer incluyen el apoyo a estudiantes con discapacidades en el entorno escolar, la toma de decisiones en equipo, la supervisión, la prevención del suicidio, la intervención en crisis y la gestión de amenazas. Ha presentado en conferencias profesionales locales y nacionales, ha enseñado en los programas de formación en psicología de posgrado de la Universidad de Towson y de la Universidad de Maryland, y ha formado parte de las juntas de múltiples organizaciones profesionales. La información proporcionada esta noche proviene de las experiencias compartidas de los psicólogos escolares de HCPSS. 

Mira el vídeo

ABC’s of Challenging Behavior Management

December 9, 2020

Panelists: Cathy Judkins

Challenging Behaviors (May, 2020)

with Catherine Judkins, BCBA (A Brown Bag Workshop)
Download Notes | Watch Video

Cannabis & Autism

with Dr. Leslie Apgar (January, 2020)

Reviewing a study on the impact of Cannabis on behavior, communication and anxiety
Download Notes | Watch Video

Center for Autism & Related Disorders (CARD) at Kennedy Krieger Institute

Monthly Speaker Series: Rebecca Landa, PhD, CCC-SLP, Founder & Executive Director (June, 2020)
Download Notes | Watch Video

Occupational Therapy for Children and Adolescents with Autism: It is about More than Handwriting (March 25, 2021)

Aaron Dallman, PhD, OTR/L, MT-BC (Emily Bravman, OTS)

Presented in Partnership with Pathfinders for Autism / Brown Bag Workshop Series

CLICK for Notes

CLICK to Watch Recording   

WATER SAFETY & WANDERING PREVENTION

Recorded May 14, 2025

In observance of National Water Safety Month, this webinar raises awareness about water safety for children and young people, especially those with I/DD. The panel of parents, swim instructors, self-advocates and professionals shares resources and strategies for families impacted by the risk of a loved one’s wandering that can lead to injury or drowning. Participants learn strategies for preventing wandering that can lead to tragic outcomes, particularly when water is nearby. Q&A.

Co-presented by the Autism Society of Maryland and the Autism Society Baltimore-Chesapeake.

Presentation

Presentation Slides

SEGURIDAD ACUÁTICA Y PREVENCIÓN DE DEAMBULACIÓN
Grabado el 14 de mayo de 2025

En conmemoración del Mes Nacional de la Seguridad Acuática, este seminario web busca crear conciencia sobre la seguridad en el agua para niños y jóvenes, especialmente aquellos con discapacidades del desarrollo o intelectuales (I/DD).

Un panel compuesto por padres, instructores de natación, autodefensores y profesionales comparte recursos y estrategias para familias que enfrentan el riesgo de que un ser querido deambule, lo que puede resultar en lesiones o ahogamiento.

Los participantes aprenderán estrategias para prevenir la deambulación que podría tener consecuencias trágicas, especialmente cuando hay cuerpos de agua cerca. Incluye sesión de preguntas y respuestas.

Presentación

 PRESENTACIÓN DE POWERPOINT

Police Training on Autism: Overview of the Howard County Police Department Curriculum (10.16.20)

Lt. Bill Cheuvront, HCPD

Download Notes       Video

Sexuality and Gender Diversity in Autism: A Panel Discussion
June 6, 2022

Co-sponsored by the Autism Society of Maryland and PFLAG Columbia-Howard County

The acronym LGBTQIA+ is an ever-growing and evolving acronym. It is an inclusive term covering people of all gendered sexualities, such as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, queer, intersex, asexual, pansexual, and allies.

Autism is more common among people who do not identify as their assigned sex — three to six times more common than in the general population, according to a recent study. Gender identity and sexuality are also more varied among Autistic people.  Researchers are making gains on how best to support Autistic people who identify outside conventional gender and sexual identities.

The panel discuss LGBTQIA+ topics that are of specific interest to Autistic teens and adults and their families, and offer time for Q&A.

Panelists:
Kiana Fok, Self-Advocate and Secretary, PFLAG-Columbia Howard County
Jumel Howard, President, PFLAG-Columbia Howard County
Zosia Zaks, Zaks Autism Consulting LLC

Start Time: Jun 6, 2022 06:36 PM

Watch Video

Slide Deck – Gender & Diversity (Zosia Zaks)

Slide Deck – Profiles of Trans Parents (Jumel Howard)

Breaking Binaries Worksheet

Resource List – Sexuality and Gender Diversity in Autism Worksheet

Women and Autism: A Panel Discussion

Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2020

Panelists:

Video What About The Girls? (PPT) Resource List

Dealing with Screen Overuse in Neurodivergent Teens and Young Adults 

TRATAMIENTO DEL USO EXCESIVO DE PANTALLAS EN ADOLESCENTES Y ADULTOS JÓVENES NEURODIVERGENTES

February 12, 2025

Presented by: Rick Silver, MD, and John Yearick, LCPC of Thrive Emerge

This presentation will guide participants in a “do-it-yourself” program for reducing screen overuse in their homes. The program will help caregivers feel more confident in their role as “change agents” to reduce tension in the home as they move their children to healthier screen behaviors.

• English Video
• Spanish Video
• Slide Deck
• Thrive Emerge Quick Start Guide

AUTISM AND SUICIDE PREVENTION: A Panel Discussion Let By Autistics for Other Autistics and Families

November 9, 2022, 7pm Via Zoom

Moderator: Carly Ott

Panelists: Lisa Morgan, Sam Brandsen and Brigid Rankowski

Autistic people have more than three-fold higher rates of suicide and suicide attempts than the general population; yet the signs and symptoms of depression and anxiety can look different for Autistic people. Lisa Morgan, self-advocate and national suicide expert, will present on the topic. Panelists will discuss the latest research on the subject and their personal experiences. Learn about the very important role of parents and loved ones can play in:

• Identifying the signs and symptoms that someone is at risk
• Recognizing and responding effectively to the warning signs in Autistic people
• Implementing strategies to help prevent suicide

Watch the Video

Slide Deck

Resource List

MENTAL HEALTH and AUTISM: A PANEL DISCUSSION

May 20, 2021

Sibling Issues (February, 2019)

Download Notes

Go With Your Gut:  Autism and Gut Health

March 22, 2023 – Brown Bag Workshop presented by AUSOM and Pathfinders for Autism

Presenter: Dr. Pamela Compart

Dr. Compart is a developmental pediatrician and integrative/functional medicine physician who has a particular expertise in and passion for treating children with Autism.  Her approach to working with children includes looking at the whole child to make the best recommendations for both more traditional “outside in” therapies and less traditional treatments – “inside out” that enable a child to reach her full potential.  This includes considering internal biochemistry, balance and any deficiencies in order to optimize brain function.  During this session, Dr. Compart shares how she combines these “outside in” and “inside out” treatments to help a child reach his or her true potential, particularly as it relates to gut intestine imbalance, toxins, deficiencies in vitamins or minerals, all to optimize brain function.

RECORDING – English

RECORDING – Spanish

Supporting the Family Unit and Beyond with Executive Functioning Skills

From Navigating the Journey Support Group – October 19, 2022

Speakers: Brad Bernstein and Sarah Seeberge

WATCH the Video

You Can’t Drink From An Empty Cup: Supporting Your Own Social and Emotional Well-Being.  Helping Parents Survive the Roller Coaster of Parenting a Special Needs Child

December 2, 2020

Panelists: