Many Ways of Being: Autism, Assessments, Identity & Your Right to Choose Seminar

Many Ways of Being: Autism, Assessments, Identity & Your Right to Choose Seminar

What:

Presented by Cheryl Theis, Director of Education, Support for Families of Children with Disabilities

Deciding whether to pursue an autism assessment — for yourself or your child — is a deeply personal choice, especially for LGBTQ+ people and families who may already be navigating systems that don't always feel affirming or accessible. This workshop offers clear, compassionate information to help you navigate that decision with greater confidence.

We'll explore what an autism evaluation actually involves, what an official diagnosis can and cannot define about you or your child, and the potential benefits and complications of having a formal label — including access to services, accommodations, community, and self-understanding. We'll look honestly at the wide spectrum of autism, the particular experience of people who have masked their neurodivergence for years at real cost to their mental health and sense of self, and the ways that LGBTQ+, trans, and queer identities intersect with autism — including what evaluators often get wrong.

This workshop is centered on LGBTQ+ adults considering a diagnosis for themselves, as well as parents and caregivers exploring this path for their child. The space is designed to be affirming, non-pathologizing, and grounded in respect for self-knowledge, lived experience, and your right to choose.

When:

Wednesday, May 6, 2026 | 6:30 – 8:00 PM

Where:

Taking place virtually via secure Zoom phone and video conference -- Participants will receive the Zoom meeting information via email following registration.

For More Information:

Please register using the link at the top of this page, and we'll contact you with the secure telehealth conference call phone number and video link URL. To be sure to allow us enough time to get back to you with the contact information, please register as early as possible; remember also to check your spam folder if you've not received access info. Our video and audio conferencing are HIPAA-compliant and preserve the security and confidentiality of all our participants to the highest standards possible. [Further information about Zoom meeting HIPAA compliance here.]

We are committed to ensuring our programs are accessible to all families. When you're registering, please let us know of any accommodations that would help your family participate to the fullest (e.g. ASL interpreter, translated materials, childcare providers experienced with kids with disabilities, large print materials, gluten-free food options, etc.). If registering within 48 hours of the event, please call 415-981-1960 to ensure our receipt of your request. This event – including refreshments and childcare, as applicable – is offered free for all attendees. As you are able, please help us continue offering these resources to all who need them, by making a financial donation to OFC.