Staff training & consultative services
In recent years, it has become clear that genetic and other prenatal factors play a major role in causing neurodevelopmental disorders, including intellectual disabilities and autism spectrum disorder. Advances in genetic testing have allowed the diagnosis of fragile X, Prader-Willi, Williams, 22q11.2 deletion, dup15q, and many other genetic syndromes which are associated with cognitive and behavioral symptoms. Educators and professionals working with children with special developmental needs can benefit from training about the implications of genetic diagnoses for health, behavior, and learning.
Geisinger’s Autism & Developmental Medicine Institute (ADMI) offers a comprehensive menu of services. ADMI’s leadership in the fields of neurodevelopmental pediatrics, genomic medicine, psychology, speech-language pathology, special education, and behavioral health allows us to offer unique and practical services. Through personalized training, ADMI’s expertise can make a lasting difference in the lives of the children and adults you serve.
Sample trainings:
- Social skills strategies
- Strategies to support students with autism spectrum disorder
- Genetic causes of neurodevelopmental disabilities
- Augmentative and alternative communication systems (AAC)
- Practical implications of genetic diagnoses
- The ABCs of intervention for autism spectrum disorder
Conditions include:
- Down syndrome
- Fragile X syndrome
- Duplication 15q
- Williams syndrome
- Tuberous sclerosis
- Prader-Willi syndrome
- Angelman syndrome
- 22q11.2 deletion
- Smith-Magenis syndrome
- Rett syndrome
Hourly, half-day, and full-day trainings are available. Specific topics can be tailored to meet your school’s or agency’s needs. ADMI also provides individual consultations and evaluations of children and adults with genetic syndromes, including assistance with development of IEPs and behavior plans.
For more information contact Barbara Haas-Givler by calling 570.522.6287 or emailing bahaasgivler@geisinger.edu.