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Events & Programs
AINC events offer a dynamic space where professionals at all stages of their careers and specializations come together in a welcoming and inclusive environment. Our diverse range of offerings—from book clubs and conferences to workshops and film-led discussion series—provides valuable opportunities to connect with peers, learn from leading experts, and engage in collaborative learning.
Autism in Polyvagal Terms
Join us for a transformative morning with Dr. Sean Inderbitzen, LCSW, DSW—psychotherapist, researcher, author, and autistic advocate—as he explores Autism in Polyvagal Terms.
In this dynamic talk designed for therapists and mental health professionals, Dr. Inderbitzen will illuminate the intersection of Polyvagal Theory and autism, offering fresh insights into emotional regulation, mental flexibility, and social connection for neurodivergent clients.
Drawing from his book, Autism in Polyvagal Terms: New Possibilities and Interventions, and his own lived experience as an autistic adult, Dr. Inderbitzen provides practical, respectful, and science-based strategies for clinicians who want to deepen their understanding of autism and deliver truly inclusive care.
This event is a must for professionals passionate about trauma-informed practice, neurodiversity-affirming therapy, and bridging neuroscience with compassionate clinical work.
3 CEUs Available
Who should attend:
Therapists, counselors, psychologists, social workers, educators, and anyone interested in innovative approaches to autism therapy and mental health.
Why Sean, and why Polyvagal Theory?
Amie Parsons, AINC Board Member, recommended Sean as a speaker. Here's her take on why it's important to explore this topic:
"After reading Sean's book Autism in Polyvagal Terms, it was the first time that I felt there were alternative methods to helping calm my AuDHD brain down. Knowing that Sean comes from personal experience with Autism and being a LMSW, I felt like he 'got me'. The idea that Autistic brains are on high alert all the time made sense to me, and he offered a way to calm that high alert down.
Both my children are Autistic, and they too have been able to incorporate the polyvagal movement into their daily lives and having awareness of the hypervigilance and sensory space to calm down has helped us take a breath and function in a calmer tone. As a former school teacher and now counselor, I feel like this can benefit so many people, such as neurotypical counselors and teachers working with Autistic clients/students, and Autistic counselors working with neurotypicals and those with Autism. Learning to create space to calm the nervous system down and co-regulate can be a game changer in stressful situations. Awareness and calm can create space to move the healing forward."
Objectives
Cost –
Dr. Sean Inderbitzen, LCSW, DSW, is a psychotherapist, researcher, and author whose work bridges cutting-edge neuroscience with compassionate clinical practice. With deep roots in trauma-informed care and a specialization in autism therapy, Dr. Inderbitzen integrates Polyvagal Theory to help individuals on the autism spectrum cultivate emotional regulation, mental flexibility, and deeper social connection.
As the author of Autism in Polyvagal Terms: New Possibilities and Interventions, he offers a groundbreaking perspective informed by both his professional expertise and lived experience as an autistic adult. His book serves as a practical guide for therapists, blending theory with actionable strategies to support neurodivergent clients in a respectful and empowering way.
Dr. Inderbitzen is passionate about fostering community among clinicians, researchers, and advocates who are reshaping mental health through inclusive, science-based approaches. His work reflects a commitment to honoring neurodiversity while advancing the evolving dialogue between psychotherapy and the field of neuroscience.