Agenda is subject to change.

Your Words Matter: Autistic Communication and Talking About Autism

Keynote Session
Caroline Gaddy, MFA, MA, CCC-SLP

This presentation explores how language shapes our understanding of autism and influences our interactions with Autistic individuals. Rooted in neurodiversity-affirming principles, this session will focus on building awareness of the "double empathy problem"—a concept that highlights mutual misunderstandings between Autistic and non-Autistic people due to differing communication styles.

Led by an Autistic SLP, this session will discuss the unique characteristics of Autistic communication, including directness, passion for specific topics, and sensory influences, while challenging misconceptions often framed as deficits. By understanding these traits as expressions of a diverse way of experiencing the world, participants will gain tools to foster more inclusive and meaningful connections.

The presentation also emphasizes the power of reframing conversations about autism to focus on strengths and capabilities. It will explore how deficit-based narratives can perpetuate stigma and how adopting a strengths-based approach can empower Autistic individuals to thrive in environments that embrace their unique contributions. This presentation will leave participants with a deeper understanding of how to navigate communication across neurotypes and create more affirming spaces.

Caroline Gaddy, MFA, MA, CCC-SLP

Presenter Bio: Caroline Gaddy, MFA, MA, CCC-SLP (they/she) is a speech-language pathologist, AAC specialist, disability advocate, and neurodiversity educator. They provide education and consultation on neurodiversity-affirming practices through their business, Vibrant Minds, LLC. They are also a Learning Consultant for Tobii Dynavox. Caroline worked for many years in school settings as a teacher and an SLP, and also worked in medical settings with adult and pediatric populations, often specializing in supporting communication access for people with multiple disabilities. They have presented at both state and national conferences and co-authored articles on neuro-affirming practices, AAC, and Autistic communication styles. Caroline is passionate about disability justice and inclusion, and firmly believes that communication is a fundamental human right.

Empowering Voices: Centering AAC Users in Educational Planning

Keynote Session
Ashley Larisey, MS, CCC-SLP/L - Speech Services PLLC/Owner

This session focuses on empowering AAC users by centering their voices throughout their educational journey. Far too often, decisions about the lives of students are made without fully engaging the individuals most impacted: the AAC users themselves. By adopting a person-centered approach, educators, families, and other stakeholders can prioritize high expectations, individualized support, and meaningful participation for AAC users across all stages of their education.

This session also highlights the importance of person-centered planning and self-determination in building a supportive environment where AAC users feel empowered. Attendees will explore strategies for facilitating meaningful participation in educational planning and creating a culture of collaboration that respects and amplifies the AAC user’s voice.

Ashley Larisey, MS, CCC-SLP/L - Speech Services PLLC/Owner

Presenter Bio: Ashley Larisey is a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist and the owner of a specialty private practice dedicated to empowering individuals with complex communication needs. With a focus on Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), Ashley provides comprehensive AAC assessments, direct therapy, and strategic coaching to families, educators, and professionals. She is passionate about equipping stakeholders with the skills and knowledge to foster meaningful communication and engagement for AAC users across environments.

Ashley has extensive experience supporting children and adults who use AAC systems, including those with a variety of developmental and acquired disabilities. She is an accomplished presenter, sharing her expertise on AAC and literacy at both local and national conferences. Ashley designs and delivers dynamic professional development courses, blending practical strategies with the latest research to support communication access and growth. Her dedication to collaboration and lifelong learning ensures that every AAC user has the opportunity to make their voice heard.

Reconsidering and Reframing Social Skills: Are We Focused on Compliance or Connection?

Breakout Session
Caroline Gaddy, MFA, MA, CCC-SLP

This presentation challenges traditional approaches to and definitions of social skills by exploring their inherent variability due to culture, gender, community, and neurotype. What is considered "appropriate" social behavior varies widely across communities, cultures, and contexts. Participants will examine how mainstream definitions of social skills often prioritize conformity and compliance over meaningful connection and fail to account for the diversity of neurodivergent ways of interacting. This understanding will serve as a foundation for deconstructing one-size-fits-all models of social skill instruction, particularly in how they impact Autistic individuals.

The session will also address the harmful effects of masking—when Autistic individuals suppress their authentic selves to fit neurotypical expectations. Research linking masking to burnout, depression, anxiety, suicidality, and loss of identity will be reviewed, emphasizing the need for alternative approaches to social interaction support.

Finally, the presentation will offer practical, neuroaffirming strategies to promote authentic connection. These strategies will focus on fostering mutual understanding, respecting diverse communication styles, and supporting Autistic individuals in building relationships on their terms. Participants will leave with actionable tools to move beyond compliance-based models, empowering individuals to thrive socially while embracing their unique identities.

Caroline Gaddy, MFA, MA, CCC-SLP

Presenter Bio: Caroline Gaddy, MFA, MA, CCC-SLP (they/she) is a speech-language pathologist, AAC specialist, disability advocate, and neurodiversity educator. They provide education and consultation on neurodiversity-affirming practices through their business, Vibrant Minds, LLC. They are also a Learning Consultant for Tobii Dynavox. Caroline worked for many years in school settings as a teacher and an SLP, and also worked in medical settings with adult and pediatric populations, often specializing in supporting communication access for people with multiple disabilities. They have presented at both state and national conferences and co-authored articles on neuro-affirming practices, AAC, and Autistic communication styles. Caroline is passionate about disability justice and inclusion, and firmly believes that communication is a fundamental human right.

Inclusive Literacy: Supporting Emergent Literacy Learners and AAC

Breakout Session
Ashley Larisey, MS, CCC-SLP/L - Speech Services PLLC/Owner

Literacy instruction for students with complex disabilities involves specific considerations, particularly when supporting students who use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). Emergent literacy learners benefit from teaching that builds a solid foundation for the development of reading and writing skills. This session will focus on interventions that support students in developing early literacy skills such as interaction and engagement, acquiring an understanding of letter names and sounds, phonological awareness skills, independent reading, writing using letters of the alphabet, and communication during shared writing activities. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of emergent literacy instruction and participate in planning and implementation exercises that can be immediately applied within their learning spaces.

Ashley Larisey, MS, CCC-SLP/L - Speech Services PLLC/Owner

Presenter Bio: Ashley Larisey is a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist and the owner of a specialty private practice dedicated to empowering individuals with complex communication needs. With a focus on Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), Ashley provides comprehensive AAC assessments, direct therapy, and strategic coaching to families, educators, and professionals. She is passionate about equipping stakeholders with the skills and knowledge to foster meaningful communication and engagement for AAC users across environments.

Ashley has extensive experience supporting children and adults who use AAC systems, including those with a variety of developmental and acquired disabilities. She is an accomplished presenter, sharing her expertise on AAC and literacy at both local and national conferences. Ashley designs and delivers dynamic professional development courses, blending practical strategies with the latest research to support communication access and growth. Her dedication to collaboration and lifelong learning ensures that every AAC user has the opportunity to make their voice heard.

Effective & Engaging Professional Development When Training on AAC Implementation

Breakout Session
Deidre Dobbels, M.S. CCC-SLP - Assistant Professor/Speech-Language Pathologist/AAC Specialist and Kelly Key, BA, MA, CAS, ATACP - Assistive Technology Coordinator, Barrington 220

Training communication partners (school staff, families, outside providers, and peers) to gain comfort and confidence is essential for AAC implementation success. Active, responsive, practical, and engaging learning opportunities provide the best outcomes. This session will cover creative ways to find time for professional development and coaching, ideas on activities to do during training sessions, and resources galore! Whether you are training on core vocabulary, essential partner skills, or gaining comfort with AAC devices and best practices; you will be guaranteed to walk away with new ideas and creative ways to fit in professional development sessions.

Deidre Dobbels, M.S. CCC-SLP - Assistant Professor/Speech-Language Pathologist/AAC Specialist

Presenter Bio: Deidre Dobbels is a Speech Language Pathologist with 24 years of experience working with people with complex communication needs. In her current role, she guides speech-language pathology graduate students through clinical experiences with clients who benefit from AAC as a Clinical Assistant Professor at Northern Illinois University in Dekalb, IL. She also teaches clinical methods courses and provides autism diagnostic assessments in the campus clinic. Prior to her appointment at NIU, Deidre worked in the public school setting with students aged 3-22 focusing on AAC, language acquisition, and comprehensive literacy practices, as well as the Illinois Early Intervention program and in private practice. She is a passionate advocate for inclusionary education, neuro-diverse affirming practices, and communication for all. Deidre frequently presents on AAC, language development, school-based service delivery, and anti-ableist advocacy.

Kelly Key, BA, MA, CAS, ATACP - Assistive Technology Coordinator, Barrington 220

Presenter Bio: Kelly Key is the Assistive Technology Coordinator for the Barrington School District (EC-Transition) in Barrington, Illinois. She has worked in the field of special education for over 28 years.  Kelly has been in her current role (Assistive Technology Coordinator) for 20 years.  She has also served as an administrator for 13 years as a Special Services Facilitator and Assistant Principal.  Prior to becoming an administrator, Kelly taught special education students with multiple needs for 9 years. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education, a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Special Education, and a Certificate of Advanced Study in Educational Leadership as well as an ATACP (Assistive Technology Applications Certificate). Kelly has also served as an adjunct instructor at the University of Illinois Chicago. Kelly presents at local, state, and national conferences and colleges on various assistive technology topics and she loves sharing what is working with her students to be able to help more students outside of her district.

Give your Child the POWR to Communicate: Families Supporting Children with Complex Communication Needs

Breakout Session
Sarah Douglas, Ph.D. - Michigan State University, Associate Professor and Sarah Dunkel-Jackson, Ph.D., BCBA-D - Michigan State University, Project Director/Professor

Children with complex communication needs and those who use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) experience the best outcomes when family members are well-trained and highly engaged in using the child's communication system. We will explore a variety of strategies following the mnemonic POWR+ that families can use to enhance the communication of children with complex communication needs. Illustrative case examples and experiential activities will be provided to help families and educators learn the strategies.

Sarah Douglas, Ph.D. - Michigan State University, Associate Professor

Presenter Bio: Dr. Douglas is an Associate Professor at Michigan State University in the Human Development and Family Studies (HDFS) department. She conducts research to support children with disabilities, their families, and educational teams. Her research focuses on three distinct areas: paraeducator supports for students with disabilities, communication partner training to support children who use augmentative and alternative communication, and sensor technologies to measure social interactions of children with disabilities. She is the director of the Research in Autism and Developmental Disabilities (RADD) Lab

Sarah Dunkel-Jackson, Ph.D., BCBA-D - Michigan State University, Project Director/Professor

Presenter Bio: Dr. Dunkel-Jackson is a project director for several U.S. Department of Education research projects and she teaches courses in the Human Development and Family Studies (HDFS) department and Counseling Educational Psychology and Special Education (CEPSE) department at Michigan State University. Her research interests include behavior assessment and behavioral interventions for individuals with disabilities and their families and support staff. Dr. Dunkel-Jackson also conducts applied research on inclusive youth sports and she is a member of the Research in Autism and Developmental Disabilities (RADD) Lab.

Igniting Change: Your Role in Reimagining Education

Breakout Session
Carolyn O’Hearn, M.A., CCC-SLP - Livingston Educational Service Agency - Director of Elementary Pathway Programs and Special Education Literacy Outcomes

The future of education is not brought to you by software companies, out of touch board members, or distant policy makers. The future is shaped by you and the diverse roles you can play - therapy provider, meeting facilitator, coach, and so many more! There is only one of you, but each person, each moment, and each idea can be powerful. This hands-on, interactive session aims to shift outdated mindsets, build collaborative skills, and grow your networks. Join us to reimagine how all stakeholders can play a larger role in igniting change in their schools and make a STICKing, long-lasting impact.

Carolyn O’Hearn, M.A., CCC-SLP - Livingston Educational Service Agency - Director of Elementary Pathway Programs and Special Education Literacy Outcomes

Presenter Bio: Carolyn is the Director of Elementary Pathway Programs and Special Education Literacy Outcomes for Livingston Educational Service Agency. Prior to this role, she was an AT/AAC Specialist with Alt+Shift and a speech-language pathologist for Lapeer County ISD. Carolyn has presented at conferences such as ATIA, ASHA, Closing the Gap, #TalkingAAC, AAC in the Cloud, and Learning Forward. She has provided state and national-level training and technical assistance in the areas of assistive technology (AT), including augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) and literacy for learners with significant disabilities and complex communication needs. She is also a certified PODD trainer. She is passionate about supporting all learners as they develop their skills to become autonomous communicators, literate individuals, and active, contributing members of their communities. Carolyn hosts “All Means ALL,” an inclusive education podcast with Sara Pericolosi.

Get SETT for Success: Navigating AAC Decisions with the SETT Framework

Breakout Session (repeated session)
Carolyn Parker, M.A. CCC-SLP - AT/AAC Specialist with Alt+Shift

In this interactive session, participants will explore how the SETT (Student, Environment, Task, Tools) framework can be applied to make informed decisions about augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) for students with communication needs. The SETT framework provides a structured, student-centered approach that helps educational teams identify the most effective tools and strategies for supporting communication.

Through hands-on learning, attendees will learn how to use the SETT framework to assess a student's unique skills, the environment in which they learn, the tasks they need to perform, and finally, AAC tools. Participants will discover strategies for collaborating as a team to make thoughtful, data-based decisions that support students' needs.

By the end of the session, participants will be equipped with a practical understanding of how the SETT framework can guide their AAC decision-making process, ensuring that each student receives the tools and support necessary to communicate effectively and meaningfully in all learning environments.

Carolyn Parker, M.A. CCC-SLP - AT/AAC Specialist with Alt+Shift

Presenter Bio: Carolyn is an AT/AAC Specialist with Alt+Shift, an Individuals with Disabilities Act grant-funded initiative through the Michigan Department of Education. In her role with Alt+Shift, Carolyn focuses on providing training and assistance related to AT, AAC, and literacy for students with disabilities and complex communication needs at both the local and state level. Prior to joining Alt+Shift, Carolyn served as a school-based speech-language pathologist for ten years, primarily working with students using augmentative and alternative communication.

Why Did I Say That? An SLP Mom's Reflections on Communication in a Neurodiverse World

Breakout Session
Montelle Curtis, MA CCC-SLP - Cedar Springs Public Schools, Speech-Language Pathologist & Regional Autism Program Coach

This informal session will take a lightheartedly serious look at communication in the context of raising and educating autistic children. Montelle will give a mostly honest account of some of her failures and successes as a parent and professional, and what she’s learned along the way. An unfiltered (potentially cringe-y) presentation of real experiences, with practical points to ponder.

Montelle Curtis, MA CCC-SLP - Cedar Springs Public Schools, Speech-Language Pathologist & Regional Autism Program Coach

Presenter Bio: Montelle is a speech-language pathologist with over 20 years of experience at Cedar Springs Public Schools. Currently, she is a service provider and coach for the K-5 regional autism program at CSPS. In her coaching role, she supports teams in instructional design and in the development and implementation of tiered behavioral interventions, including SBT. As an SLP, she loves teaching students with CCN and their communication partners. But more importantly, her 17-year-old daughter, Fiona, is autistic. Fi’s zest for life, her love of people and her commitment to pursuing her passions have taught Montelle the most important things. She blends her professional experience and training with her parent perspective as she advocates for students and families. She is working hard to become a person whose words and actions are neurodiverse-affirming and trauma-informed.

Using the Communication Bill of Rights to Foster Self-Advocacy

Breakout Session
Deidre Dobbels, M.S. CCC-SLP - Assistant Professor/Speech-Language Pathologist/AAC Specialist and Kelly Key, BA, MA, CAS, ATACP - Assistive Technology Coordinator, Barrington 220

First written in 1995, and revised in 2016, the Communication Bill of Rights is an important document created by the National Joint Committee for the Communication Needs of Persons With Severe Disabilities (NJC), that outlines 15 fundamental rights for all communicators. While many professionals who support complex communicators, are familiar with these rights, how many AAC communicators are aware of the rights afforded them along with the teams making decisions that impact them? How do we empower AAC users to self-advocate and AAC professionals to advocate for those who use AAC?

Deidre Dobbels, M.S. CCC-SLP - Assistant Professor/Speech-Language Pathologist/AAC Specialist

Presenter Bio: Deidre Dobbels is a Speech Language Pathologist with 24 years of experience working with people with complex communication needs. In her current role, she guides speech-language pathology graduate students through clinical experiences with clients who benefit from AAC as a Clinical Assistant Professor at Northern Illinois University in Dekalb, IL. She also teaches clinical methods courses and provides autism diagnostic assessments in the campus clinic. Prior to her appointment at NIU, Deidre worked in the public school setting with students aged 3-22 focusing on AAC, language acquisition, and comprehensive literacy practices, as well as the Illinois Early Intervention program and in private practice. She is a passionate advocate for inclusionary education, neuro-diverse affirming practices, and communication for all. Deidre frequently presents on AAC, language development, school-based service delivery, and anti-ableist advocacy.

Kelly Key, BA, MA, CAS, ATACP - Assistive Technology Coordinator, Barrington 220

Presenter Bio: Kelly Key is the Assistive Technology Coordinator for the Barrington School District (EC-Transition) in Barrington, Illinois. She has worked in the field of special education for over 28 years.  Kelly has been in her current role (Assistive Technology Coordinator) for 20 years.  She has also served as an administrator for 13 years as a Special Services Facilitator and Assistant Principal.  Prior to becoming an administrator, Kelly taught special education students with multiple needs for 9 years. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education, a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Special Education, and a Certificate of Advanced Study in Educational Leadership as well as an ATACP (Assistive Technology Applications Certificate). Kelly has also served as an adjunct instructor at the University of Illinois Chicago. Kelly presents at local, state, and national conferences and colleges on various assistive technology topics and she loves sharing what is working with her students to be able to help more students outside of her district.

Breakout Session Title: Coming Soon!

Breakout Session
Speaker information coming soon.

Description coming soon.

Taming the Advice Monster: Strategies to Support Collaborative Efforts

Breakout Session
Carolyn O’Hearn, M.A., CCC-SLP - Livingston Educational Service Agency - Director of Elementary Pathway Programs and Special Education Literacy Outcomes

The students we serve often have complex needs, which necessitates a team based approach - communication isn’t and can't just be a “speech thing.” While it may be easier for us to provide direct answers or advice to those working with complex communicators, coaching often yields better understanding and willingness to shift practices overall. Join us for this interactive session where participants will learn about Jim Knight's Partnership Principles, GROWTH coaching, and how to support adult learners (yes, it's different than working with students). The strategies learned within this session can be applied to individual teams as well as AAC capacity-building efforts.

Carolyn O’Hearn, M.A., CCC-SLP - Livingston Educational Service Agency - Director of Elementary Pathway Programs and Special Education Literacy Outcomes

Presenter Bio: Carolyn is the Director of Elementary Pathway Programs and Special Education Literacy Outcomes for Livingston Educational Service Agency. Prior to this role, she was an AT/AAC Specialist with Alt+Shift and a speech-language pathologist for Lapeer County ISD. Carolyn has presented at conferences such as ATIA, ASHA, Closing the Gap, #TalkingAAC, AAC in the Cloud, and Learning Forward. She has provided state and national-level training and technical assistance in the areas of assistive technology (AT), including augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) and literacy for learners with significant disabilities and complex communication needs. She is also a certified PODD trainer. She is passionate about supporting all learners as they develop their skills to become autonomous communicators, literate individuals, and active, contributing members of their communities. Carolyn hosts “All Means ALL,” an inclusive education podcast with Sara Pericolosi.

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