NASW: Autism and Affirming Practices – 2CEU

Founded in 1955, the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) is the largest membership organization of professional social workers in the world. NASW works to enhance the professional growth and development of its members, to create and maintain professional standards, and to advance sound social policies.

Social workers are serving more individuals on the Autism Spectrum and their families. According to the most recent statistics from the Centers for Disease Control (2025), 1 in 31 children aged eight in the United States are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). ASD occurs across all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups (CDC, 2025). In the past, the goal of therapists working with children on the Autism Spectrum was to help them manage their behavior and match their neurotypical peers developmentally (Wagland et al.,2025). However, this approach was not always successful (Wagland et. al., 2025). Now, social workers are expanding their practices to include neurodiversity-affirming techniques that acknowledge the strengths of individuals on the Autism Spectrum and are creating more inclusive and accepting environments (Wagland et al., 2025). During this interactive workshop, participants will learn about the characteristics, strengths, and challenges that children and adults on the Autism Spectrum face. A review of neurodiversity-affirming techniques used to support individuals on the Autism Spectrum and their families will be described. Case studies and examples of successful neurodiversity-affirming techniques used by social workers will be highlighted, and participants will have the opportunity to practice. The goal of this workshop is for participants to leave with a toolbox of neurodiversity-affirming techniques to support individuals on the Autism Spectrum and their families.