Autism in Mental Health

CE Hours 1

About this live event

This advanced training provides mental health professionals with a deep dive into the clinical presentation of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Moving beyond stereotypes, we examine how autism is frequently masked or misdiagnosed as personality or mood disorders. Trainees will explore the "Double Empathy Problem," decode high-risk language, and address complex co-morbidities like eating disorders and addiction. The course emphasizes practical, neuro-affirming strategies for assessment and treatment.

Learning Objectives

Identify common "masked" presentations of autism and distinguish them from BPD, OCD, and Anxiety.
Differentiate between genuine suicidal intent and autistic burnout/sensory overwhelm using the "Language of Distress" model.
Explain the "Double Empathy Problem" and its impact on the therapeutic alliance.
Recognize the sensory-based drivers of ARFID and Substance Use Disorder in autistic clients.
Adapt CBT and DBT modalities to be neuro-affirming rather than compliance-based.

Agenda

1-HOUR TRAINING AGENDA

Autism in Mental Health

0:00 – 0:05

Welcome & Learning Objectives

• Brief overview of why autistic presentations are frequently misdiagnosed in behavioral health

• Review of training objectives

• Framing the concept of masking and neuro-affirming care

0:05 – 0:15

Masked Autism vs. BPD, OCD & Anxiety

• Common “masked” autistic presentations in adolescents and adults

• How social masking, camouflaging, and compliance mimic personality and anxiety disorders

• Key diagnostic differences between:

Autism vs. Borderline Personality Disorder

Autism vs. OCD

Autism vs. Generalized & Social Anxiety

• Red flags that suggest neurodivergent burnout rather than psychiatric pathology

0:15 – 0:25

The Language of Distress Model

• Differentiating genuine suicidal intent from autistic burnout and sensory overwhelm

• Autistic distress signals vs. neurotypical crisis indicators

• Understanding shutdown, meltdowns, and withdrawal as nervous system responses

• Clinical questions that clarify risk while preventing misinterpretation

0:25 – 0:35

The Double Empathy Problem & Therapeutic Rupture

• What the Double Empathy Problem is

• How mutual misinterpretation damages rapport and trust

• Neurotypical bias in traditional therapy models

• Strategies for repairing alliance and reducing unintentional harm

0:35 – 0:45

Sensory-Based Drivers of ARFID & Substance Use

• Sensory processing differences and their role in:

Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder

Substance use as sensory modulation

• Why “noncompliance” is often nervous system protection

• Clinical indicators of sensory-driven behavior patterns

0:45 – 0:55

Neuro-Affirming CBT & DBT Adaptations

• Moving from compliance-based to nervous-system-informed care

• Adapting CBT thought records and exposures

• Adapting DBT skills for sensory and executive functioning differences

• Supporting autonomy, safety, and regulation over normalization

0:55 – 1:00

Wrap-Up, Clinical Takeaways & Q&A

• Key practice shifts clinicians can implement immediately

• Final questions and discussion

• Resources and next steps

Live event Instructor(s)

Bill Reichle, NCC, LPC, LPCMH

Owner of Bill Reichle Counseling

Bill Reichle stands as a distinguished figure in the realm of mental health and counseling, characterized by his unwavering commitment to fostering emotional resilience and well-being. With a wealth of experience and a sophisticated approach, he navigates the complexities of the human psyche, offering clients a path toward meaningful transformation. His expertise transcends traditional methods, integrating evidence-based practices with a profound understanding of individual narratives.

As a licensed counselor, Bill's practice is built upon the foundation of empathy, authenticity, and a deep respect for the diverse experiences of those he serves. He creates a safe space for exploration and growth, empowering individuals to confront their challenges with courage and clarity. With each counseling session, he not only addresses immediate concerns but also cultivates an environment where lasting change can take root.

In an ever-evolving landscape of mental health, Bill Reichle emerges as a beacon of hope and support, dedicated to enhancing the lives of his clients through insightful guidance and compassionate care.

Disclosure

DISCLOSURE OF RELEVANT FINANCIAL RELATIONSHIPS CE Learning Systems adheres to the ACCME’s Standards for Integrity and Independence in Accredited Continuing Medical Education. Any individuals in a position to control the content of a CE activity ― including faculty, planners, reviewers, or others ― are required to disclose all relevant financial relationships with ineligible entities (formerly known as commercial interests). The following relevant financial relationships have been disclosed by this activity’s planners, faculty, and the reviewer: PLANNERS AND REVIEWER The planners of this activity have reported that they have no relevant financial relationships. FACULTY The faculty of this activity have reported that they have no relevant financial relationships.

CE Process Info

Joint Accreditation (JA)

In support of improving patient care, CE Learning Systems is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.
American Psychological Association (APA)

Continuing Education (CE) credits for psychologists are provided through the co-sponsorship of the American Psychological Association (APA) Office of Continuing Education in Psychology (CEP). The APA CEP office maintains responsibility for the content of the programs.
New York State Education Department's State Board for Social Work (NYSEDSW)

CE Learning Systems SW CPE is recognized by the New York State Education Department's State Board for Social Work as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed social workers #0060.
New York Education Department for Licensed Mental Health Counselors (NYSEDLMHC)

CE Learning Systems, LLC is recognized by the New York State Education Department's State Board for Mental Health Practitioners as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed mental health counselors. #MHC-0072.
New York State Education Department's State Board for Psychology (NYSEDPSY)

CE Learning Systems dba CE-Credit.com & AddictionCounselorCE.com is recognized by the New York State Education Department's State Board for Psychology as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed psychologists #PSY-0016.
New York State Education Department's State Board for Marriage and Family Therapy (NYSEDMFT)

CE Learning Systems dba CE-Credit.com & AddictionCounselorCE.com is recognized by the New York State Education Department's State Board for Marriage and Family Therapy as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed marriage and family therapists #MFT-0045.

Disability Accommodation

We are committed to providing ADA accommodations in compliance with the law. To ensure your needs are met, please inform us of any requirements when you register, ideally at least 30 days before the event. You can do so by emailing support@ce-go.com or calling 888-498-5578.

Technology

1. This virtual event will be hosted via Zoom Webinar, and you may be prompted to download or upgrade your Zoom app if using a mobile device. A strong WiFi connection will be required for best quality.

2. We recommend clicking your "Join Webinar" button early and checking that your speakers are on before the event begins. Please do not worry about being seen or heard! Attendee video feeds and mics are turned off by default when entering a webinar. You will be able to ask questions via the Q&A feature.

3. Please respect that no copying, recording, or distribution of live session content is allowed. CE's are provided for the "live" sessions only. CE's will not be available for the recordings.

Where can I find my Attendee Dashboard link?

Upon registering, you should receive an email from support@ceactivities.com with a link to access your Attendee Dashboard. If you do not see it in your inbox, please check your spam/junk folder. If you still cannot locate the email, you may retrieve your Attendee Dashboard link by clicking HERE

CELS Grievance Policy

If a grievance arises pertaining to continuing education activities or processes, please contact Tyler Gibson via confidential email to tyler@celearningsystems.com as soon as possible, so that the nature of the concern may be addressed in a timely fashion.

Autism in Mental Health

About this live event

Learning Objectives

Agenda

Live event Instructor(s)

Disclosure

CE Process Info

Joint Accreditation (JA)

American Psychological Association (APA)

New York State Education Department's State Board for Social Work (NYSEDSW)

New York Education Department for Licensed Mental Health Counselors (NYSEDLMHC)

New York State Education Department's State Board for Psychology (NYSEDPSY)

New York State Education Department's State Board for Marriage and Family Therapy (NYSEDMFT)

Disability Accommodation

Technology

Where can I find my Attendee Dashboard link?

CELS Grievance Policy

Reset password

Reset your password by providing your email below

Please wait {{timer}} seconds to resend

Sign in

Enter your email to get started.

Sign in

Good news! Your email is associated with an account. Enter your password or click here to reset it

Thanks for signing up!

Please wait {{timer}} seconds to resend

Sign up

Shopping Cart

{{ item.name }} ({{ item.courses.length }} courses)

{{ item.credit_hours }} Credits

Cart is empty

Thank you for your purchase

Thank you for your purchase

Payment