Monthly News & Updates

September 2026

Join Us for Our 44th Annual Autism Conference

Registration Closes October 19

Atlantic City | October 22 & 23, 2026


Connect with the autism community for two days of practical strategies, emerging research, and real-world solutions. With more than 60 workshops, engaging keynote presentations, and opportunities to connect with professionals, caregivers, and advocates from across the state, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss. 

Be sure to book your room at Harrah's in the Autism New Jersey room block prior to the October 7 deadline.


Registration closes October 19. Reserve your spot today!

Keynote Spotlight

Caring for Ourselves and Others: The Science, Strategies, and Community Impact


Friday’s keynote takes a look at what stress does to our minds and bodies and how it can affect the way we feel, communicate, and interact with others.


You’ll learn how to spot signs of chronic stress and walk away with practical strategies to support your own well-being and the well-being of those around you. Learn more →

Horizon Announces Changes to Autism Treatment Services Policy

Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey has announced changes to its autism treatment services policy, scheduled to take effect December 1, 2026.


The new policy includes updated guidance on authorization requirements, treatment intensity, continuation of services. Read more →

Consistency Across the Lifespan: How Care Grows with Your Family

Support needs can change at every stage of life, but families shouldn’t have to start over with every transition.


In this guest article, our partners at Graham Behavior Services explore how consistent care can evolve from early intervention through adulthood and share what families can look for when choosing quality support. Read more about navigating each stage and what to look for when choosing quality support. →

A Great Day on the Greens for a Great Cause

Nearly 300 golfers joined us for the 28th Annual Applied Underwriters Golf Invitational, enjoying beautiful weather, great food, friendly competition, and plenty of opportunities to connect with friends and fellow supporters.

Thanks to the generosity of our golfers, sponsors, volunteers, and dedicated committee members, the event was a tremendous success, raising critical funds to support Autism New Jersey’s mission and our work on behalf of New Jersey’s autism community.


Check out photos and more highlights from the day. →

Autism New Jersey Welcomes Lynn McCullough as Events Manager


We’re excited to welcome Lynn McCullough as Autism New Jersey’s new Events Manager!


With more than 30 years of experience in association and event management, Lynn brings extensive expertise to our Annual Conference, agency events, and organization membership program. Get to know Lynn and learn more about what she brings to the Autism New Jersey team. →

Upcoming Connection Sessions, Webinars, and Trainings

Sibling Connection Session


Sept. 29 | 7 to 8 p.m.

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What to Expect from ABA Services


Oct. 6 | 12 to 1 p.m.

Wellness Connection:
Focus on Siblings


Oct. 14 | 12 to 1 p.m.

 

Fathers Connection Session


Oct. 14 | 7 to 8 p.m.

Latino Connection Session



Oct. 14 | 7 to 8 p.m.

Fathers Connection Session


Nov. 11 | 7 to 8 p.m.

 

Health & Wellness Coaching for Caregivers


Make space for your own well-being. Join our free Health & Wellness Coaching for caregivers, where you’ll meet in a small virtual group with Autism New Jersey’s Director of Family Wellness to explore goals, build sustainable habits, and learn practical strategies to support your overall well-being. Learn more and sign up today →

Participate in a Research Study


Propranolol Study for Challenging Behaviors in Autism: Researchers are seeking participants ages 12–40 with autism who engage in challenging behaviors, including aggression or self-injury, for a research study evaluating propranolol, a medication used to treat high blood pressure that may also help with these behaviors.


Exploring Character Strengths and Well-Being Among Autistic College Students: Researchers at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville are conducting a study exploring character strengths among autistic college students and how they relate to well-being, life satisfaction, flourishing, and emotions.


Argo AAC App Usability Research Study: Alethium Technologies is inviting families to participate in a research study evaluating Argo, a new augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) iPad app.


Caregiver Perspectives on School-Based Mental Health Supports: Saint Elizabeth University is conducting a research study to better understand caregiver perspectives on the effectiveness of school-based mental health supports for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and/or Emotional & Behavioral Disorders (EBD).


Facing Your Fears: CBT-Based Anxiety: Researchers from the Autism and Neurodevelopment Lab at Montclair State University are seeking autistic youth ages 8–14 who experience anxiety, along with a parent or caregiver who lives with them, to participate in a research study.


SentenceWeaver Language Skills: Researchers from Drexel University are examining the acquisition and generalization of core language and communication skills using SentenceWeaver, a computerized language training curriculum. 

Have you found our monthly e-news helpful?

Have you or your loved ones benefited from our advocacy, education or outreach?


Please support our work so that we can help more New Jersey residents.

As always, if you require support or information, 
please connect with us at
800.4.AUTISM or visit www.autismnj.org.

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