Belonging and Becoming: Adolescent Identity Formation and Autism

Belonging and Becoming: Adolescent Identity Formation and Autism Spectrum Disorder

• Wajdi Akef Fakhoury, LMFT | Clinical Director, San Diego START
• Ingrid Dombrower, MD | Medical Director, San Diego START
• Kevin Paranal, START Coordinator | San Diego START

What happens when identity itself becomes a source of conflict? This training explores how autistic adolescents navigate identity development across family, culture, and systems of care. Participants will learn -- and share -- practical strategies to support belonging, reduce shame, and respond to identity-related behaviors while respecting family values and cultural context.

Who Should Attend:
This event is ideal for healthcare providers, mental health professionals, educators, social workers, and community members who work with or support adolescents with neurodevelopmental differences and co-occurring mental health vulnerabilities. We encourage participants to come ready to share their insights and learn from one another.

How to Participate:
This CET session will be held in a hybrid format, allowing participants to join in the way that works best for them:

In-Person Participation: Join us at our office located at 3870 Murphy Canyon Road, Suite 150, San Diego, CA 92123.
Virtual Participation: A Zoom link will be provided before the scheduled presentation via the email used at registration.

We welcome your participation in either format and look forward to an engaging and collaborative discussion.

About San Diego START:
San Diego START is committed to improving the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families by providing person-centered, evidence-informed support services. Our CET meetings offer a platform for education, networking, and community collaboration.

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Host or Publisher San Diego CA-START