The Crisis Prevention Institute has developed a half-day seminar, Autism Matters at Work
to raise awareness and dispel myths about autism. It is designed to help professionals—those who have occasional workplace encounters with people on the autism spectrum—interact safely, effectively, and respectfully. This seminar provides important information that helps minimize risks and prepares staff for workplace contact with individuals on the autism spectrum.
CPI Announces Autism Awareness Seminar [Press Release]
September 16, 2008
In 2005, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated that one in every 150 eight-year olds was diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Given this high diagnostic rate, it is very likely that employees in a variety of workplace settings will come in contact with someone on the autism spectrum. CPI President Judith Schubert encourages organizational leaders to promote respectful workplaces through employee education and notes, “Anyone who works in a care or service profession can benefit from the practical strategies taught in this training.”
In 2006, CPI began offering a 3-day advanced course for Nonviolent Crisis Intervention® Certified Instructors focused on strategies for care providers working directly with service users on the Autism Spectrum. The course’s popularity led to many requests for more autism-related training, and ultimately, to the development of this half-day seminar. According to Schubert, “Our advanced Instructor course continues to benefit many, but it is more comprehensive than some employee groups need. This seminar will serve a wider audience.” Autism Matters At Work is available to the general public and requires no prior CPI training.
In developing Autism Matters At Work, CPI collaborated with Dennis Debbaudt, an advocate for people with Autism and author of Autism, Advocates and Law Enforcement Professionals. According to Schubert, “Dennis has worked tirelessly to raise awareness and improve interactions between people with autism and law enforcement-----and his unique perspective relating to safety issues is important for anyone to consider."
Jackie Marquette, Ph.D., an author who has focused research and writings on Autism, attended CPI’s debut of Autism Matters at Work last month. “The attendees of this seminar walk away with a clarity and an understanding of the characteristics of autism, said Dr. Marquette. “The activities promote favorable responses that can be supportive in times of stress for those with ASD. The approach in the CPI seminar is one of respect and honor for people with autism and other related disabilities. I highly recommend this seminar.”
Dr. Marquette, founder of the Marquette Group— provides consultation and resources to agencies and families impacted by ASD.
The Crisis Prevention Institute is an international training organization that offers training programs and innovative resources to professionals around the world who are committed to creating safe and respectful work environments. CPI’s Nonviolent Crisis Intervention® training program and the PrepareTraining® program focus on prevention and offer effective strategies for resolving situations when confronted by anxious, hostile, or violent behavior.
Autism Matters at Work is part of the CPI Matters at Work Series. The series addresses important issues that impact the safety and well-being of employees, visitors, guests, and coworkers in today’s work environments. An upcoming program in the series, currently under development and slated to be available later this year, will examine what businesses can do to address and help prevent bullying and intimidation in the workplace.
Since 1980, more than 5.4 million professionals have participated in CPI training programs offered both on-site and at select locations in 146 cities worldwide. For more information about CPI or any of its training programs and resources, visit www.crisisprevention.com
For further information, contact: Robert D. Rettmann, Research and Communications Coordinator Crisis Prevention Institute, Inc. (262) 317-3475
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