A December 2009 report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 1 in 110 children in the United States have an autism spectrum disorder. Although symptoms and severity can differ among individuals on the spectrum, each person affected by the disorder has impaired communication skills and difficulties initiating or sustaining social interactions.
This unique certificate program, designed for mental health professionals, parents, special education providers and advocates, is the first to offer a full spectrum examination of autism spectrum disorders, along with tips for intervention from birth through adulthood. Participants will learn how to diagnose and establish treatment plans for children and adults on the autism spectrum, and will be introduced to new emerging treatment ideas and practical tips for the ongoing support and treatment of autistic adults.
Certificate requirements: A minimum of 50 hours is required. This includes five core courses and at least three electives. New electives will be available in each catalog, and different core courses are offered throughout the year.
Core Courses
Courses Currently Offered
Elective Course
Expressive Arts and Drama Therapy for Youth with Special Needs
December 2-3, 2011 - Pleasant Hill campus
Elective Course
The Role of Occupational Therapy in the Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders
December 10, 2011 - Pleasant Hill campus
Core Course
Managing the Treatment of Adults on the Autism Spectrum: What Happens after High School?
February 10, 2012 - Pleasant Hill campus
Elective Course
Social Skills for Adolescents on the Specturm
March 9, 2012 - Pleasant Hill campus
Core Course
Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorders: Assessment & Treatment of Children & Adults
March 30, 2012 - Pleasant Hill campus
Core Course
Assessment & Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorders
April 27, 2012 - Pleasant Hill campus
Elective Course
Applied Behavioral Analysis & Other Established Treatments for Autism Spectrum Disorders
June 2, 2012 - Pleasant Hill campus
Elective Course
Family Therapy for Clients on the Autism Spectrum
July 14, 2012 - Pleasant Hill campus
Elective Course
Individual Education Program (IEP) Basics: Understanding Your Role in the IEP Process
Online Section - Coming Soon!
Elective Course
Understanding the Legal Issues that Impact Clients with Developmental Disabilities
Online Section - Coming Soon!
Discount Available
Enroll in three classes together and receive 10 percent off each class. Call (800) 557-1384 to register.
Certificate Series Application
The certificate program application fee is $35. Please submit a Certificate Program Application on or before registering for your second course in the series. You will have three years to complete your course work from the date of your application. You can submit your Certificate Program Application online or use the downloadable application form available under "Related Downloads" on the right side of this page.
Certificate Series Completion
After you have completed the all the courses needed to fulfill the certificate requirements, please complete and submit a Certificate Verification form, available under “Related Downloads” on the right side of this page. Please allow six weeks for your course work to be reviewed and a certificate to be issued to you.
Frequently Asked Questions are available under "Related Downloads" on the right side of this page.
This program is available online.
John F. Kennedy University is an affiliate of the National University System.