School-based speech and language pathologists increasingly face the challenge of recognizing the full range of autism spectrum differences and engaging students in  productive diagnostic interviews. Participants in this workshop will learn to engage children and adolescents in sensory-based interviews using the MIGDAS-2 diagnostic interview system to obtain meaningful and distinctive qualitative communication samples to better identify the autism spectrum language profile. The session will highlight the use of the MIGDAS-2 visual framework and strength-based descriptive language to individualize the diagnosis of autism spectrum differences across age and ability levels in the school setting. Integrating the use of this qualitative set of protocols with autism-specific standardized communication measures will be discussed, along with outlining how the MIGDAS-2 strength-based process aligns with the IDEA special education eligibility guidelines for Autism Spectrum Disorder. Topics include gaining proficiency in structuring the sensory- based diagnostic interview using the Descriptive Triangle positive language, defining the role of the SLP on multidisciplinary autism assessments teams, differential diagnosis considerations, and discussing the diagnosis with parents.

2.5 TSHA CE hours are pending approval for this session. 

This session fulfills the requirements of DEI training for SLPs (i.e., Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Education, Training, Service Delivery, and Public Policy).

Registered participants will receive handouts and a link specific to the upcoming webinar with instructions to connect from the home or work computer/device prior to the event.