The Role of ABA in Improving Outcomes for Adults with ASD/ID 
Peter Gerhardt, Ed.D., Executive Director, EPIC School

Baer, Wolf and Risley (1968), noted that competently applied behavior analytic interventions should result in strong, socially important, and generalizable outcomes which, in this case, should mean positive adult outcomes in ASD. Unfortunately, despite an emphasis on evidence-based intervention in ASD, adult outcomes remain poor "for almost any outcome you choose" (Roux, et al., 2015, p. 8). While there may be several reasons for such continued poor outcomes, the potential of applied behavior analysis to support more positive adult outcomes has yet to be fully explored or realized. More positive outcomes should, however, be well within the reach of our behavior analytic technology. But to do this, it seems our behavior must first change. This talk will provide an overview of how current behavior analytic practice targeting adolescents with ASD is not resulting in the outcomes we, and our students and their families, value ( e.g. independence, employment, relationships). 

Sexuality and the Spectrum: Lessons on Sex, Dating, and Love, Autism Style
Amy Gravino, M.A., C.A.S., President/Founder, A.S.C.O.T Consulting

Individuals on the autism spectrum are sexual beings yet are usually not taught the necessary skills to be successful in sexual and romantic relationships. This session, which features a woman on the autism spectrum sharing her firsthand perspective, will dispel some of the myths and misconceptions surrounding autism and dating, discuss the potential for using ABA to teach dating skills and the challenges involved with teaching these skills, and offer strategies and resources to help parents and clinicians begin conversations about relationships and sexuality with their family members and clients.

Elevating the Role of Families: Raising Expectations and Partnering for Improved Outcomes
Sean Roy, Chief Training and Innovation Officer, TransCen, Inc.

Engaging families in the transition and employment process continues to be a struggle for many educators and disability service professionals. One reason is that “family engagement” is an ill-defined concept - and that lack of a common understanding creates barriers to action. This highly interactive session will outline current concepts related to family engagement such as the dual-capacity model and Charting the Life Course, and examine the impact of messaging and expectations on family decision-making. Strategies will be given for setting the stage for engagement and raising expectations through the lifespan. Particular attention will be given to the family role in transitioning to employment, including ways to address family hesitation respectfully and tools to help families see employment as part of a future “good life.”