AJ Drexel Autism Institute

10/16/2026

Recruiting Now!
✨ SDARI (Socio-Dramatic Affective Relational Intervention) is an improv-based social group designed to build confidence, friendships, and social-emotional skills in a fun, neuro-affirming environment.
✨ 10-week program using engaging improv games and theater activities to build real-life skills like flexibility, perspective-taking, and reading social cues.
✨ Small groups (3:1 ratio)
✨ No acting experience needed
✨ In-person at AJ Drexel Autism Institute (in Philadelphia, PA across from 30th Street Station)
✨ Scholarships available thanks to the Miranda Family Foundation & Weisbrot Family
📩 [email protected]
📞 215-571-3435
Social Connections & Treatment Lab - SCTL Autism Life Course Outcomes Research

10/15/2026

Next Wednesday, October 21st, the monthly series 'Ditch the Diapers' takes place presented by Elwyn. This virtual series helps families raising individuals of all ages, abilities, and communication styles learn toilet training. Use the QR code on this flyer to register for this event.
This series features Elwyn Parent Educator, and AJDAI Leadership Council Member, Icylee L. Basketbill, B.S.

10/14/2026

📣 **Calling autistic young adults ages 18–30 to participate in a research study!**

How do loneliness and social connections change during major life transitions? The **Social Experiences and Loneliness in Autistic Young Adults (SELA) Study** aims to better understand these experiences—including the opportunities for connection, growth, and independence that can come with change, as well as the challenges.

Researchers are recruiting autistic young adults ages 18–30 living in the United States to share their experiences through online surveys every six months over two years, with optional interviews for some participants.

💬 **All forms of communication are welcome!** Whether you use spoken language, AAC, or other communication tools, your voice matters.

📋 Interest form: https://drexel.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9Thp2SyOaTu8BZc

📧 Questions? Contact: [email protected]
Social Connections & Treatment Lab - SCTL Autism Life Course Outcomes Research

10/13/2026

The Fathers' Autism Support Group is hosting their October virtual meet-up this Saturday, October 17th from 11:00am-noon EST.

Join Dr. Robert Naseef and Dr. Michael Hannon as they lead this group for fathers and father figures of autistic people to hear, learn, share and support each other on their fatherhood journey.

Please scan the QR code on the flyer to register and get the link to join. For any questions, email: [email protected]

10/09/2026

A big thanks to EmpathyTech and the Cities of Inclusion Event this week as a part of the 2026 Philadelphia Disability Summit. It was a great event where we could connect with so many old friends and new faces. This is an important and meaningful initiative and we are grateful to be a part of it!
Social Connections & Treatment Lab - SCTL Autism Life Course Outcomes Research

10/06/2026

Dena Gassner is giving the keynote to a packed house at the Philadelphia Autism Project's Annual Conference. Dena's talk is titled 'Masking: A Social Problem or is it Something Else?'
Social Connections & Treatment Lab - SCTL Autism Life Course Outcomes Research

10/05/2026

There is still time to register for Autism New Jersey's Annual Autism Conference being held on October 22 & 23rd in Atlantic City.
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.
Learn more and register here:

View details for the Autism New Jersey Annual Conference conference.

10/02/2026

Would you like to help us learn more about balance and walking control in adults with autism?
The Autism Institute and the Drexel University College of Nursing and Health Professions are seeking autistic adults (aged 18 to 64) to join a study.

Here is what it entails:
☎️ We administer a screening questionnaire over the telephone (15 minutes)
🚶🏽‍♀️🚶🏿‍♂️ Eligible participants are invited for one study visit (3 hours) at Drexel for assessments of balance and walking control.
💲Participants will be compensated $80 for the study visit.

To learn more, contact Dr. Chatterjee at [email protected] or 267-359-5533

10/01/2026

Purchase your tickets today for Neurodiversity Employment Networks UnMasked Trivia Night!
This event takes place on October 29th at Indy Hall Clubhouse starting at 6:00pm.
To learn more about the event, and to purchase your tickets, please check out the link here: https://givebutter.com/UnmaskedTrivia
Social Connections & Treatment Lab - SCTL Autism Life Course Outcomes Research

09/30/2026

Join us as we learn about social interactions in young children with Autism.

You may be eligible to participate in this intervention study if:
✔ You have a child who meets criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
✔ Your child is between 18 and 42 months of age

If you are interested in participating or have any questions about the study, please e- mail: [email protected] or scan the QR code.