The University of Toledo Center for Excellence in Autism Grand Opening Ceremonies! June 9-10, 2011 Adolescent Girl’s and Women’s Wellness Initiative From Relevant Interventions to Meaningful Outcomes

Program Objectives 1. Advance the identification and scientific exploration of the gynecological status of girls and women with ASD. 2. Positively influence the medical, behavioral and social aspects of daily functioning for girls and women with ASD. 3. Normalize the integration of gynecological wellness as a necessary component of comprehensive healthcare for females with ASD. 4. Effectively deliver a variety of professional education opportunities that will help to enhance and standardize the quality of care for females with ASD. From Relevant Interventions to Meaningful Outcomes

Why a specialized program? The number of adolescent girls and women identified with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) is growing and very little research exists to guide diagnosis or treatment planning. Without an evidence-based framework for focusing resources and efforts we cannot reasonably expect that the services being provided today will support a rich quality of life in the future. From Relevant Interventions to Meaningful Outcomes

“Nothing in life is to be feared. It is only to be understood.” - Marie Curie From Relevant Interventions to Meaningful Outcomes

Core concepts of our programming include… Development of a positive self-concept with the confidence to engage in meaningful activities in the community. Facilitating the development of social competence. Building self-advocacy skills. Responsible sexuality education that is developmentally appropriate. Identification of a responsible continuum of medical care services across the lifespan. Fostering growth of adaptive behaviors that build autonomy and independence. From Relevant Interventions to Meaningful Outcomes

Comprehensive Supports The University of Toledo Center for Excellence in Autism SHINE Plan Sexual Health Inventory and Education Plan From Relevant Interventions to Meaningful Outcomes

What is the SHINE Plan ? The SHINE Plan is a unique document specifically for adolescent girls and women with ASD. Over time the SHINE plan becomes a personal record of medical care, individual strengths and challenges, goals for the future and a record of progress. The SHINE Plan represents the first of its kind nationally and a significant contribution to the development of appropriate services for adolescent girls and women with ASD. From Relevant Interventions to Meaningful Outcomes

Elements of the SHINE Plan Physical health Adaptive/self-help skills Communication skills Cognitive and mental health Social and emotional well-being Sexual abuse prevention Self-regulating and self-monitoring behaviors Individual outcomes and evaluation From Relevant Interventions to Meaningful Outcomes

The Research Agenda Validation of diagnostic criteria and functional profiles that are gender appropriate. Identification of hormone levels and corresponding behavior changes across the menstrual cycle. Identification of best practices and standards for care regarding sexuality education and gynecological wellness across the lifespan. Development of a scientific understanding of the needs of women with ASD as they mature. From Relevant Interventions to Meaningful Outcomes

Won’t You Help Us? For more information regarding research opportunities at The University of Toledo Center for Excellence in Autism Adolescent Girl’s and Women’s Wellness Initiative From Relevant Interventions to Meaningful Outcomes

For More Information: The University of Toledo Center for Excellence in Autism 3000 Arlington Avenue, MS 1161 Toledo Ohio From Relevant Interventions to Meaningful Outcomes