Autism Training Hub
Welcome to GSAPP’s Autism Training Hub
The Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology (GSAPP) at Rutgers University is distinct for its integration of academic rigor, clinical experience, and applied community engagement. Our programs emphasize preparing practitioners who understand autism both academically and experientially, ensuring that learning is research‑driven, practice‑ready, and grounded in real‑world impact. The Autism Training Hub builds on this foundation by expanding access to high‑quality, autism‑informed education for professionals at every stage—from students to seasoned leaders.
Today's Workforce and Tomorrow's Leaders
GSAPP’s approach is learner‑centered and interdisciplinary, blending psychology, education, and the evidence‑based technique of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), with a focus on autism‑informed best practices. Participants gain both conceptual depth and effective, useful strategies they can employ across academic, clinical, workplace, and community settings. Through exceptional teaching, mentorship, and hands-on instruction, the Autism Training Hub prepares today’s workforce—and tomorrow’s leaders—to support and champion the strengths of autistic individuals across all contexts.
Preparing Inclusive, Practice‑Ready Leaders
Understanding autism is not a specialization—it’s a responsibility. Participants in the Autism Training Hub emerge as leaders who are:
- Committed to expanding access to autism‑informed support
- Ethical in decision‑making
- Inclusive in practice
- Prepared for complex, real‑world challenges
- Responsive to neurodiversity
Our graduates carry forward GSAPP’s tradition of excellence by shaping inclusive classrooms, campuses, centers, clinics, workplaces, and communities.
Who We Train
The Hub is building training for cross-disciplinary professionals in today’s campus and evolving workforce. Our model is two-fold: we prepare future professionals to support autistic individuals across the lifespan with confidence, skill, and respect—and we equip employers with the knowledge and tools needed to understand and empower autistic individuals while recognizing the value neurodivergent talent brings to the workplace.
The Autism Training Hub is designed for:
- Graduate students and emerging practitioners in psychology, education, and ABA
- Higher education professionals—faculty, advisors, administrators, staff
- Leaders and managers responsible for hiring, supervising, and supporting neurodiverse teams
- Professionals in all industries seeking to build autism awareness and inclusive practices
Whether you are teaching, advising, conducting research, managing people, or shaping organizational strategy, autism competency expands your professional impact and strengthens your ability to lead with excellence.
Why Autism Training Matters
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects approximately 1 in 31 children nationwide and 1 in 29 children in New Jersey, according to the CDC. As prevalence grows, so does the need for accessible, high‑quality autism training that effectually prepares professionals to serve an increasingly neurodiverse society.
Understanding autism enhances your ability to:
- Build inclusive and supportive environments across settings
- Foster workplaces where neurodivergent strengths drive innovation, engagement, and retention
- Strengthen organizational culture through informed, ethical leadership
- Support diverse communication and learning styles
A commitment to autism competency is a commitment to equity, access, and excellence in every setting.
What Sets GSAPP Apart
Our Autism Training Hub is more than a collection of courses—it is a comprehensive, cross-disciplinary model that blends:
- Research‑informed instruction grounded in psychology, education, and ABA
- Experiential learning that bridges theory with real‑world practice
- Faculty excellence from practitioner‑scholars deeply engaged with autistic individuals, families, groups, schools, and organizations
- A mission‑driven approach to expanding access to autism‑competency training across professions
Participants benefit from an ecosystem designed to elevate both understanding and application, ensuring that autism‑inclusive practices are not just learned, but mastered.
Build Autism Competency. Expand Access. Lead with Excellence.
Build Your Autism Portfolio
Earn a:
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Fieldwork in Autism
Practicum in Autism
Internship in Autism
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- Coming Soon!
Interdisciplinary Partnerships
We collaborate across Rutgers and with external partners, including the Center for Youth Social Emotional Wellness (CYSEW), Rutgers University Center for Autism Research, Education, and Services (RUCARES), Children’s Specialized Hospital (CSH) RUCARES, the Graduate School of Education (GSE), and community, clinical, and policy-focused organizations.
Support the Future of Autism Training
Contact Us
Have a question or need more information? Please email us and we’ll be in touch shortly.
“No matter your profession, understanding autism makes you a better colleague, leader, and human.”
– Dr. Lara Delmolino Gatley, Clinical Professor and Associate Dean, Rutgers Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology