Respectful and Responsive: Family-Centered Autism Diagnostic Processes for Diné Families  June 23, 2025 at 10:30 am

This interactive presentation will discuss ways that multidisciplinary teams can meaningfully engage with Diné during the Autism diagnostic process. Researchers at NAU recently received a grant from the National Institute of Mental Health titled AHAA: Advancing Hózhó in Autism Assessment for Diné Families. Through this grant, an observation guide was developed as a set of practices and processes to implement when collaborating with Diné families who have a child being assessed for Autism. It was developed using data gathered through observing assessments, interviewing clinicians who conduct assessments and work with Diné families, and reviewing relevant research. During this session, the elements of the observation guide will be shared and attendees will have the opportunity to share their perspectives and experiences working with Diné families.

Learning Outcomes

  • Attendees will be able to identify strategies for supporting Diné families in the Autism diagnostic process.
  • Attendees will be able to identify the development and purpose of the AHAA observation guide.
  • Attendees will be able to gather and share insights and perspectives from working with Diné families in Autism assessments.

Speaker(s)

Jenson, Kreuzer, Lee, Lindly, Henderson, Running Bear