Adults with ASD and Relationships
Virtual Workshop
April 30, 2025, 3 to 6 pm
- Join us on April 30 from 3 to 6 pm for this virtual workshop on Adults with Autism and managing relationships.
- $45 per registration. Organizations are encouraged to purchase a seat and have a "watch party" with multiple employees!
- Continuing Education Units (CEUs) may be available for this training.
- Sponsored by SCSU’s Center of Excellence on Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Overview
This workshop explores the complexities of relationships in adulthood, with a special focus on autistic adults and how they navigate romantic, friendship, and work relationships in an ever-evolving world. Through expert-led presentations and a panel discussion featuring adults with autism, attendees will gain valuable insights and strategies for relationship management.
Who should attend?
- Adults on the autism spectrum
- Caregivers and family members
- Professionals working with autistic adults
- Anyone interested in learning about the intersection of autism and relationships
Agenda
- Expert Presentations: Leading experts will discuss key topics related to romantic, platonic, and professional relationships. Topics will include:
- The impact of autism on social interactions and relationships.
- Effective communication strategies in romantic and friendship dynamics.
- Navigating workplace relationships and professional boundaries.
- Coping with challenges related to social expectations and societal norms.
- Panel Discussion: A group of autistic adults will share their personal experiences and offer practical advice on:
- Building and maintaining friendships.
- Managing romantic relationships and dating.
- Dealing with challenges in the workplace and professional settings.
- Developing strategies for self-advocacy and social integration.
- Q&A Session: Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions to both the experts and the panelists, engaging in an open dialogue about the complexities of relationships from different perspectives.
Dr. Whitney James Detar is Faculty at Antioch University, Santa Barbara, specializing in clinical psychology and autism. She earned her Ph.D. in Special Education, Disabilities, and Developmental Risk from the University of California, Santa Barbara, where she conducted research at the internationally renowned Koegel Autism Center. A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA-D) and expert in Pivotal Response Treatment, Dr. Detar integrates humanistic and cognitive approaches with traditional behavioral methodologies to support the strengths and neurodivergence of autistic individuals. Dr. Detar’s work focuses on enhancing social communication, supporting transitions to adulthood, and enhancing romantic relationships and sexuality in individuals with autism. With over 15 years of experience in research, intervention, and education in interdisciplinary spaces, Dr. Detar has prioritized bridging disciplines and fostering collaboration to advance practitioner training and disseminate empirically validated practices on a global scale. She is a published author in leading academic texts and journals and a sought-after speaker and Authorized Continuing Education Provider, delivering international workshops and online professional development courses.
John Miller, the author of Decoding Dating, has taught students with degrees of ASD for over two decades. John Miller was born in Montréal, Canada. He completed a BA in Political Science from Florida Atlantic University and a Masters in Special Education before embarking on a career teaching students with Autism Spectrum Disorder. During this time, he was diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome, and he became a strong advocate for individuals on the spectrum. In 2011, he was invited to be a Board Member of the Autism Society of Florida. Mr. Miller currently works as an autism facilitator and teacher at Boca Raton Middle School and he runs transition and independence skills workshops with young adults. He lives with his wife and daughter in Coconut Creek, Florida. He has done trainings and presentations throughout North America (and Europe), and brings a unique perspective of being an educator in the field of autism and living with ASD.
Panel - Please join us for a Panel Discussion featuring several autistic adults.