This workshop will provide an overview of autism spectrum disorder and research on the benefits of mindfulness practice. Mindfulness refers to moment-to-moment full sensory awareness without judgment or reactivity. The presenters will engage participants in imagination-based mindfulness activities used to work with the unusual perspectives, sensory processing, neurological strengths and challenges which teens on the autism spectrum bring to their encounters with the social world.

Irene McHenry, Ph.D., a licensed Psychologist, is Director of the Institute for Engaging Leadership for Friends Council on Education, an international association of Friends schools. She is a founding board member of the Mindfulness in Education Network, and serves on the boards of Haverford College and Vector Group Consulting North America. A pioneer in integrating the fields of leadership development, mindfulness and positive psychology, Dr. McHenry has taught leadership development and mindfulness-based skills as a clinician, a teacher, and workshop leader for over 40 years. She designs and leads professional development programs for clinicians, administrators, faculty, aspiring leaders, trustees, and various professional groups, across the country.

Carol Moog, Ph.D., founder of ImagineAct, recently served as clinical director of the Social Learning Disorders Program at University of Pennsylvania. She is the psychologist for The Miquon School, actively collaborates with Autism Inclusion Resources (AIR), and works extensively with children, teens, and adults on the autism spectrum in her clinical practice as a licensed psychologist. Carol was artist-in-residence at Green Tree School and a consultant to the Social Competency Program at the Center for Autism, creating theater-based social skills programs for teens drawing from her experience as a theater improviser, actor, musician, communications consultant, and writer.

Program Flyer:
Flyer 10.24.14