Description: Social cognitive challenges and emotional regulation issues are cited as core challenges for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). As a result, children with ASD are prone to a higher incidence of behavior problems at home or at school. Social cognitive challenges not only impact interpersonal relationships, but also academics. This session will provide an overview of these core deficits and outline a number of social and emotional strategies, which can be implemented to help improve the lives of children and teens on the autism spectrum.
Presenter Bio: Sherry Mergner, MSW, LCSW is a Clinical Assistant Professor and the AHEC Liaison at UNC-CH, School of Social Work, where she coordinates continuing education programs for mental health, substance abuse and developmental disability professionals. She is also clinical social work faculty for the Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disorders (LEND) grant at the Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, where she recruits social workers for this specialized training in Developmental Disabilities. Sherry also provides clinical services to families at the CIDD. From 2010-13, Sherry served as the Project Coordinator for an Autism Masters Training Grant through UNC-CH, School of Medicine, Department of Allied Health Services. The purpose of this training grant was to educate occupational therapy, speech, and language pathology master-level students on Autism Spectrum Disorders. She is the proud mother of Noah, 17 years old with High Functioning Autism and Nathan, 14 years old who is typically developing. Sherry has served as a Mother’s Mentor for UNC-CH, TEACCH and was on the board of the Orange/Chatham Chapter of the Autism Society of NC from 2005-2007. She is very active in her community and within her children’s school promoting autism awareness and education
UNC Chapel Hill – Family Focus and Disability Lecture Series Programs 