Autism Society, Greater Capital Region, New York

Presents Sixth Annual Conference

Understanding the Overlapping Symptoms of Autism Spectrum and Mental Health Diagnoses

Multiple perspectives on the genetic, medical and psychological symptoms of mental health needs and how such co-existing disorders require specialized treatment planning across settings

Featuring

Dr. Anthony Malone, Dr. Jeff Daly, Dr. Laura Assaf, & Dr. Gina Cosgrove

Thursday, March 31, 2011

8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Holiday Inn Express

400 Old Loudon Road

Latham, New York 12110

Conference Schedule

Registration 8:00-9:00 a.m.

Morning Session-1 9:00-10:30 a.m. Dr. Anthony Malone

Biological and Genetic Factors Related to the Comorbidity of Autism Spectrum Disorders and Mental Health Disorders

Coffee Break 10:30-10:45 a.m.

Morning Session-2 10:45-12:15 p.m. Dr. Jeff Daly

Psychiatric Perspective on Treatment Planning for Comorbid Symptoms associated with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Lunch-on your own 12:15-1:30 p.m.

Afternoon Session 1:30-3:00 p.m. Dr. Laura Assaf and Dr. Gina Cosgrove

Review of assessment issues associated with comorbidity and discussion of the psychological and educational interventions for treatment.

Directions to the conference location

Holiday Inn Express 400 New Loudon Road, Latham, NY

From the north: I-87S to exit 7. Follow exit ramp to signs for Latham. End of ramp take right onto 9N. Hotel is one block on the right. From the south: Take NYS Thruway to exit 24. Take I-87N to exit 7. At the end of the ramp take Latham exit. At end of ramp make a right. The hotel is on block on the right.

Description of Session

Individuals with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) have complex needs in the areas of communication and social development. The symptom profile often includes patterns of rigidity, self-regulation deficits, sleep issues, attention issues and anxiety/mood concerns. Individuals with ASD are therefore also at risk for presenting with comorbid disorders that can further complicate their profile, including Mood/Anxiety Disorders and ADHD. The sessions will provide insight into the biology of these profiles and the assessment techniques associated with discriminating ASD symptoms from a co-existing (comorbid) disorder. A review of best treatment practices to support better functioning and support families and educators will also be a primary focus of the sessions.

Learner Objectives

1. Participants will learn about the co-existing mental health disorders that can occur for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (i.e. comorbidity).

2. Participants will be able to identify genetic and biological symptoms associated with the comorbid conditions.

3. Participants will be able to identify treatment options that include medical, psychological and educational interventions that represent best practice.

*Parents and others without a medical background are encouraged to attend.

Speakers

Dr. Anthony Malone is a well-respected Developmental Pediatrician in the Capital Region who has a wealth of knowledge on the topic of the biogenetics of autism and developmental disabilities. He will share his insights into the current research that explores the links between autism and related mental health diagnoses.

Dr. Jeff Daly is a highly regarded physician in the Capital Region. He is a Child/Adolescent Psychiatrist with Four Winds Hospital in Saratoga and has much experience treating individuals with ASD and comorbid symptoms. Dr. Daly also regularly consults with area physicians to support the medical treatment of patients with complex developmental and behavioral disorders.

Dr. Laura Assaf and Dr. Gina Cosgrove are well-known private practice psychologists that conduct diagnostic assessments and develop treatment plans for individuals with ASD. They both work with families and schools as consultants to support the growth of youngsters with complex developmental and behavioral needs.

A conference sponsored by the Autism Society of the Greater Capital Region, New York whose mission is to promote lifelong access and opportunities to people on the autism spectrum and their families so they can be fully participating, included members of their communities. Our primary focus is on public awareness, education and compassionate support.

Registration Fees & Procedures:

Member of Autism Society $35

Nonmembers of Autism Society $75 (one year membership to the Autism Society is provided with registration)

Registration form-Mail to: Autism Society of GCR-New York 101 State Street, Schenectady, NY 12306

Name______________________________________________________

Address __________________________________________

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Check all that apply:

____Member of Autism Society-$35

____Non member of Autism Society-$75 (Includes membership Autism Society-1 year)

____My check/money order/PO enclosed

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Scholarships available for those needing financial assistance. Contact Autism Society for more information. Email: info@albanyautism.org Registrations are due by March 28, 2011. Payment is expected at the time of registration.