Jefferson Launches Specialty Certificate in Autism

To respond to the needs of occupational therapists who work with individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), Thomas Jefferson University’s Department of Occupational Therapy is launching a specialty certificate in autism in July 2010. The program will give occupational therapists advanced knowledge about ASD and skills for working with persons who have autism spectrum disorders.

“Many occupational therapists indicate they want more advanced skills for working with children who have autism,” shares Roseann C. Schaaf, PhD, OTR/L, program coordinator and primary instructor. Dr. Schaaf is an expert in autism and she is engaged in numerous studies including examining the effect of occupational therapy using sensory integration techniques on the adaptive behaviors of children with autism. “This certificate offers the background and skills they want in 12 months, part-time, with the opportunity to apply credits toward doctoral study. I think all OTs will benefit from this type of training, but those who work in schools and early intervention centers may find it most beneficial.”

The certificate curriculum consists of four graduate level courses totaling 10 credits. Courses include:

• Autism: The State of the Field, which includes an overview of autism and evidence based practice
• Assessment Strategies for Individuals with Autism: From Diagnosis to Treatment
• Lifespan Intervention Across Practice Contexts
• Autism: Treating the Whole Person in Context

Classes are offered in a blended format which includes online learning with on-campus sessions one to two times a semester. (Students at a geographic distance from Philadelphia can connect virtually.) “This program offers a great opportunity to engage with the most current findings in the field,” says Dr. Schaaf. “Students will view video streamed lectures by experts in the field of autism and apply this knowledge to their practice.”

In addition to the autism certificate, Jefferson offers a specialty certificate in neurorehabilitation for occupational therapists and physical therapists who want advanced practice in that area. Students in both certificate programs can transfer all certificate credits into a Master of Science or clinical Doctorate in Occupational Therapy program at Jefferson.

For more information, about Jefferson’s specialty certificate in occupational therapy, visit http://www.jefferson.edu/occupational_therapy/certificates.

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