Autism Power Hour
August 2025 - March 2026
All sessions will be held live from 7:30am-8:30am and repeat session 3:30pm-4:30pm.
“The power hour sessions are just enough! I'm leaving the session not feeling overwhelmed but walking away with more knowledge and tools.” – Behavior Specialist
“This is immediately applicable in my work supporting teachers, especially starting with basics.” – Intervention Specialist
“The training was great! It helped me understand myself and my daughter more.” – Parent
The Autism Center at OCALI is pleased to host Autism Power Hour, FREE virtual professional development sessions which focus on a variety of topics to help professionals and family members gain a better understanding of how to address barriers that prevent autistic individuals from engaging in a purposeful life. When provided with the right support and interventions, autistic individuals can flourish. Learn about characteristics and best practices to foster learning and growth that meets individual needs of all ages. During these one-hour sessions, participants will have an opportunity to engage and interact with the hosts and other attendees.
Who should attend?
Whether you are new to autism or need a refresher on best practices, this PD opportunity is designed for you! Suggested attendees include but not limited to, intervention specialists, general educators, speech and language therapists, occupational therapists, administrators, paraprofessionals, family members, mental health therapists, social workers, guidance counselors, etc. Designed to meet the needs of students with autism from Preschool through 12th grade.
Key Concepts and Take-aways
- Participants will gain actionable tools and strategies to create environments that honor the unique needs, strengths, and communication styles of autistic individuals.
- Participants will gain a deeper understanding of autism spectrum disorder and evidence-based practices, equipping them to foster meaningful engagement, build stronger relationships, and tailor instruction that promotes success across educational and community settings.
Earn Credit!
Participants may choose from one of the following options:
- One Professional Development Contact Hour available for each session attended—must complete session evaluation to access certificate.
- Up to 12 Ohio-Approved hours (OCCRRA) available. Participants will need to register in OCCRRA for each individual session. Information will be provided via email prior to each session.
- One hour of Graduate Credit through Ashland University (*must attend all 13 sessions)
Below are the 13 different Autism Power Hour sessions being offered. Participants are not required to attend all sessions but are encouraged to attend as many sessions necessary to meet their learning needs.
All sessions are offered once from 7:30am-8:30am, and again from 3:30pm-4:30pm on that same day. Participants can choose which time slot works best for them.
August 26, 2025 – Autism & Trauma: Similar Traits/Different Reasons
September 9, 2025 – The Power of Reinforcement
September 23, 2025 – Structured Environments and Transition Supports
October 7, 2025 – Getting There Together: Turning Strategies and Supports into Skills
October 21, 2025 – Making Sense of Sensory Processing Part 1: Understanding Sensory Differences and Their Impact
November 4, 2025 – Making Sense of Sensory Processing Part 2: Strategies and Supports
December 9, 2025 – Interoception: What It Is and Why It Matters
January 13, 2026 – “Talk the Talk”: Changing Our Communication Behaviors
January 27, 2026 – Assistive Technology: Practical Do’s and Don’ts
February 10, 2026 – Supporting Social, Play and Leisure for Peer Connections
February 24, 2026 – The Brain’s Toolbox: Executive Function Unpacked
March 10, 2026 – Navigating the Adolescence Years
March 24, 2026 – Sharing Success: Unlocking More Power
Registration
Participants may choose either an AM or PM session or register for both if unsure of availability. One-time registration gives access to all sessions. Reminder emails with join links and resources will be sent the Friday before each session.
Please contact Megan Trowbridge with any questions.
Megan_trowbridge@ocali.org
