During this one day training participants will learn how the revised 2nd edition expands the test’s clinical value, making it more responsive to individuals on the “high-functioning” end of the autism spectrum – those with average or higher IQ scores, better verbal skills, and more subtle social and behavioral deficits.

• Retains the simplicity, brevity, and clarity of the original test
• Adds forms and features that help integrate diagnostic information, determine functional capabilities, provide feedback to parents, and design targeted intervention.
• Highlighting the newest aspect of this measure (CARS-2 High Functioning version)
• Will become familiar with how to use the three forms included in the CARS-2:

1) Standard Version Rating Booklet (CARS-2-ST) Equivalent to the original CARS; for use with individuals younger than six years of age and those with communication difficulties or below-average estimated IQs.

2) High-Functioning Version Rating Booklet (CARS-2-HF) An alternative for assessing verbally fluent individuals, six years of age and older, with IQ scores above 80.

3) Questionnaire for Parents or Caregivers (CARS-2-QPC) An unscored form completed by the parent or caregiver of the individual being assessed and include the individual’s early development; social, emotional, and communication skills; repetitive behaviors; play and routines; and unusual sensory interests.

Learn how it is useful in identifying symptoms of autism:

• It covers the entire autism spectrum, as defined by empirical research.
• It is based on decades of use with thousands of referred individuals.
• It assesses virtually all ages and functional levels.
• It provides concise, objective, and quantifiable ratings based on direct behavioral observation.
• Scores show a consistent, strong, positive, and specific relationship with autism diagnosis.
• Ratings are reliable across time, settings, sources of information, and raters.

This training is suitable for:  Evaluation personnel (SLPs, OTs, LSSPs, Ed Diagnosticians, Social Workers, Behavior Specialists) and those who are conducting assessments and comprehensive team-based assessments in public school settings, early intervention agencies, etc.  This training is also suitable for educators and special educators working with students with Autism.

Workshop conducted by:  Dr. Jan Schaefer, BCBA-D and CEO of Collaborative Autism Resources and Education, LLC (CARE, LLC) has extensive experience evaluating and treating individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) across the age span. She is a “research reliable” administrator of the ADOS-2.  She and her team provide consultative services to school districts and other entities across the US and she also owns a behavioral health agency providing in-home and community-based services to individuals with ASD and their families utilizing Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and other evidenced-based practices.