Autism and Sleep Disturbances: Causes, Consequences, and Interventions

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by social-emotional issues, communication deficits, and repetitive behaviors. Complicating matters, many individuals diagnosed with ASD also suffer at least one other disorder. Perhaps the most common comorbid issue in children with autism is sleep problems (e.g., issues falling and staying asleep). When left untreated, sleep problems can plague children with autism into adulthood, resulting in pernicious school, work, and social outcomes.

Designed for professionals, this 2-hour training provides attendees with a working understanding of the causes, consequences, and interventions associated with sleep disturbances among persons diagnosed with autism. Special emphasis is placed on implications for screening, intake, treatment, and discharge planning throughout this training. Other related topics are also discussed throughout this training. Case studies and professional observations are highlighted throughout to enhance attendee learning outcomes.

Learning Outcomes

1. Develop a working knowledge of autism and its signs and symptoms.
2. Identify the risk factors, warning signs, and red flag indicators of sleep disturbances among persons with autism.
3. Delineate the role of co-occurring psychiatric, substance use, medical, and cognitive disorders among persons with autism and its impact on sleep health.
4. Describe appropriate screening and intervention options for persons with autism and sleep disturbances.
5. Identify the latest research findings pertaining to the topic of autism and sleep disturbances.

Course Information

• Target Audience: introductory- to intermediate-level OTs and other professionals
  Note: While many professionals may benefit from the course content, we can only guarantee acceptance of continuing education credit as described in the following CEU section.
• View Agenda
• Course Instructor: Jerrod Brown, PhD
• CE Broker course code: 20-770897

Continuing Education Units (CEUs)

Sensational Brain LLC is an AOTA Approved Provider of professional development. PD activity ID# 01848. This distance-learning, independent format is offered at 0.2 CEUs, Intermediate Level, OT Service Delivery. The assignment of AOTA CEUs does not imply endorsement of specific content, products, or clinical procedures by AOTA.

Jerrod Brown, PhD, is a professor, trainer, researcher, and consultant with multiple years of experience teaching collegiate courses. He is also the founder and CEO of the American Institute for the Advancement of Forensic Studies and the Editor-in-Chief of Forensic Scholars Today. Jerrod has also provided consultation services to a number of caregivers, professionals, and organizations on topics related to Autism Spectrum Disorder; Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder; confabulation, suggestibility, trauma, and other life adversities; traumatic brain injury; and youth firesetting. He has completed four separate master’s degree programs and holds graduate certificates in Autism Spectrum Disorder, Other Health Disabilities, and Traumatic-Brain Injuries. Jerrod has also conducted over 200 workshops, webinars, and on-demand trainings for various organizations and professional and student audiences. In 2021, Jerrod completed a post-doctoral certificate in Leadership and Organizational Strategy from Walden University and a Professional Certificate in Forensic Psychology from San Diego State University Global Campus. Currently, He is pursuing a graduate certificate in Neuropsychology from Ball State University with an anticipated date of graduation of fall 2022. Jerrod has published several articles and book chapters and recently co-edited Forensic Mental Health: A Source Guide for Professionals (Brown & Weinkauf, 2018) with Erv Weinkauf, MA. Jerrod is also regularly featured on several national and international podcast programs.

Disclosures

• Financial: Jerrod Brown receives a speaking fee from Sensational Brain LLC. He is compensated for his position as CEO of the American Institute for the Advancement of Forensic Studies and receives royalties as a co-editor of Forensic Mental Health: A Source Guide for Professionals.
• Nonfinancial: No relevant nonfinancial relationship exists.

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