The Power of Perspective: Strengths-Based Autism Assessment Using the MIGDAS-2 in Schools, Stephanie Kneedler

The Monteiro Interview Guidelines for Diagnosing the Autism Spectrum-Second Edition (MIGDAS-2) is a qualitative interview process that helps evaluators individualize the diagnostic process for children, adolescents, and adults. Through systematic interviews with parents, caregivers, teachers and the individuals being evaluated, a narrative description of the autism brain system differences is developed. This session will give participants tools to conduct a sensory-based diagnostic interview with individuals whose communication skills range from verbally fluent to functionally nonverbal using the MIGDAS-2 system and protocols. Participants will learn how to describe individuals in positive and descriptive terms rather than deficit-based terminology commonly used in evaluations.