"Prep.Launch.Elevate: Supporting Teens and Young Adults in their Transition to Independence"

Advance LA, an innovative program of The Help Group serving adolescents and young adults with autism, learning differences and other special needs, is pleased to announce its First Annual Conference, "Prep.Launch.Elevate: Supporting Teens and Young Adults in their Transition to Independence" on May 11th, 2012 at The American Jewish University in Los Angeles. 

With a focus on the transition to independence, the day will be filled with dynamic speakers, cutting edge researchers and pioneering clinicians. Our sessions will address the needs of many people including those with difficulties in the following areas:

Autism Spectrum Disorders 
Asperger's Disorder 
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) 
Executive Functioning Deficits 
Learning Disabilities 
Mental Health Issues including Dual Diagnosis and Substance Abuse Recovery 

We will address all areas of preparing for "life after high school" including:

The World of Work 
College or Higher Education (including Vocational Training) 
Independent Living 
Some of our presenters include:

Dr. Peter Gerhardt, Director of Education at the McCarton School in New York City, Chairman of the Scientific Council for the Organization of Autism Research and a member of numerous professional advisory boards. 
Dr. Amy Griffiths, Director of The Help Group's Advance LA and co-author of Response to Intervention: Research to Practice 
Dr. Richard Guare, Director of the Center for Learning and Attention Disorders in Portsmouth, New Hampshire and co-author of Smart but Scattered: The Revolutionary "Executive Skills" Approach to Helping Kids Reach Their Potential 
Dr. Elizabeth Laugeson, Director of The Help Group-UCLA Neuropsychology Program; Assistant Clinical Professor, UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior; Founder and Director of the UCLA PEERS Clinic 
Dr. Lars Perner, Assistant Professor of Clinical Marketing at the University of Southern California and author of "Delightful Reflections: Quips, Conjectures and Pontifications" 
Dr. Lou Vismara, Policy Consultant, President Pro Tem Darrell Steinberg, Board Chair, UC Davis MIND Institute 
The Advance LA Conference is open to educators, clinicians, researchers, parents, graduate and undergraduate students. Continuing education credits (8) are available. 


This event will be held from 7:30 A.M.- 4:00 P.M. at American Jewish University, located at 15600 Mulholland Drive Los Angeles, CA 90077

You can also find more information at our website:
http://www.advancela.org