This presentation equips Board Certified Behavior Analysts® (BCBAs®) to assess and treat co-occurring depression and suicidal behavior within an applied behavior analytic framework. Participants will explore how mental health challenges manifest alongside Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), analyze suicidal behavior through both positive and negative reinforcement contingencies (“move toward” vs. “move away from” functions), and conduct essential risk assessments. The course emphasizes practical, behavioral interventions—including values-based action planning, identifying experiential avoidance, cognitive/covert behavior training via Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) concepts, physical activity integration, and social skill development—to produce meaningful neurochemical and behavioral changes that support long-term well-being.
This presentation equips behavior analysts to assess and treat co-occurring depression and suicidal behavior within an applied behavior analytic framework.
Original price was: $20.00.$16.00Current price is: $16.00.
ACE Provider
ACE Provider Information
Provider Name: Behavior Analyst CE
Provider Type: Organization
Provider Number: OP-23-10561
Next Renewal Date: 10/31/2026
Speaker
Katherine Saint, PhD, LPC, BCBA-D
Katherine has her doctorate in Behavior Analysis and is a Licensed Professional Counselor. Katherine presents locally and internationally on topics related to autism, mental health, and behavior analysis.
Katherine has a private practice focusing on mental health counseling and is the Director of Training at Fox Valley Autism Treatment Program in Appleton, WI.
Katherine has designed college courses as well as published books and articles related to mental health. Katherine also teaches master-level behavior analytic courses at Pepperdine University.
Objectives
Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
- Identify behavioral indicators of depression and suicide risk in individuals with autism, including changes in behavior, social engagement, and daily functioning.
- Describe behavioral principles and strategies for addressing depression and suicidal behavior, including functional considerations, environmental supports, and proactive interventions.
- Identify behavior-analytic interventions that promote psychological well-being, including values-based goal setting, emotional regulation, social skills development, and adaptive coping strategies.