Understanding the autistic spectrum

Author John Elder Robison will share his personal story about growing up with Asperger's syndrome during a one-day seminar November 6, hosted by the University Counseling Center. 

Robison's presentation, "Neurodiversity: Understanding the Autistic Spectrum and Building Inclusive Communities," will take place at the Kirkhof Center on the Allendale Campus. The seminar is from 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. 

Robison is the author of the memoir Look Me in the Eye. He writes about growing up at a time when a diagnosis for Asperger's syndrome did not exist, and how he became a successful businessman and father. He is currently an adjunct professor at Elms College in Massachusetts and is involved in autism research at Harvard Medical School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. 

The cost to attend is $50 for faculty, staff members and students; $90 for community members. Lunch is provided. Register by October 30 at www.gvsu.edu/counsel. 

The Counseling Center Multicultural Seminar, in its 19th year, is an annual all-day professional development opportunity open to mental health professionals, higher education personnel, students and interested community members. The seminar explores cultural, social and clinical service delivery models through a wide range of topics. 

For more information, contact Lisa Ham in the University Counseling Center at (616) 331-3266.