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Scalable Psychology InteRvention Intensive Training for Intellectual Disability and Autism (SPIRIT-ID/A)

Duration: Basic Course: 11 hours; Advanced Course: 6 - 8 hours
Cost: Basic Course: $875; Advanced Course Add-On: $500 for 6 session consultation series/$750 for 8 session consultation series (group contract rates also available)
Expected Start Date: To be announced
Microcredential Granted Upon Completion
Eligible for CEUs upon request

An estimated 60-70% of autistic children meet criteria for at least one additional psychiatric disorder (Rosen et., 2018), but many clinicians do not feel adequately trained to address the mental health needs of autistic youth, and/or those with intellectual disability.

The Scalable Psychopathology InteRvention Intensive Training for ID & Autism (SPIRIT-ID/A) training program teaches mental health practitioners skills they need to adapt cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to treat co-occurring mental health disorders in this underserved group. Co-led by psychologists with over 50 years of combined autism clinical and research expertise, as well as autistic providers, SPIRIT-ID/A covers understanding autism and IDD, behavioral modifications, and cognitive modifications. Throughout the course the content takes a neurodiversity-affirming approach and incorporates lived-experience perspectives.

Learning Concepts:
Participants who complete the program will be able to:

  • Identify core features and individual differences of autism that can impact mental health treatment
  • Articulate key differences and similarities in how to apply CBT to treat co-occurring mental health conditions in those with autism and/or ID
  • Demonstrate the ability to apply this knowledge to the treatment of mental health conditions among those with autism and/or ID

    • Format:
    SPIRIT ID/A is a fully online training with two components (Basic and Advanced):

    1. SPIRIT-ID/A Basic Course (up to 40 participants)

  • 3 asynchronous (learn on your own time) sessions: 2-3 hours of content

  • 4 synchronous (learn with the instructors and other learners) 1-hour sessions

    • 2. SPIRIT-ID/A Advanced Course (~8 – 10 participants)

  • Trainees must complete the Basic Course to be considered for SPIRIT-ID/A Advanced Course

  • 6 - 8 synchronous 1-hour monthly consultation sessions

    • Course Prerequisites:
    Familiarity with Cognitive Behavorial Therapy principles

    For more information about SPIRIT-ID/A, complete the interest form, and the SCTL team will follow up with you.