Building A Spectrum of Opportunity

This presentation provides an overview of supports and strategies that are designed to benefit adults with ASD in the workplace in obtaining and maintaining employment. From requesting accommodations to developing compensatory strategies in the workplace, information will be provided on how to navigate and open lines of communication with employers so that barriers can be removed. When individuals are empowered to be self-advocates, they better showcase their unique strengths and skills to their employers—which have historically undervalued, underrecognized, or dismissed the potential contributions of workers with disabilities.

Presenter Bio: Justin Sheets, MS, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor-Resident
Justin is the Autism Services Manager for The Choice Group, an employment services organization serving Virginian’s with disabilities. Justin is a Vocational Counselor with over 12 years experience in the field of rehabilitation, who actively works within the community to provide disability awareness training and reduce barriers to employment. Justin believes that the benefits of working with individuals with disabilities could be better recognized by employers, and strives for an equitable workforce that is representative and reflective of the unique talents and strengths of all employees who have a disability. Justin is a PEERS certified facilitator and ACRE certified in Customized Employment, as well as a Resident in Professional Counseling.