Adapting CPT for Clients with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) experience elevated rates of trauma exposure, yet standard evidence-based treatments for PTSD are not always implemented with appropriate modifications for this population. This workshop provides clinicians with an overview of ASD characteristics relevant to trauma treatment, common barriers encountered in therapy, and practical strategies for adapting Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) to better meet the needs of clients with autism.
Participants will review emerging research, analyze case examples, and engage in practice exercises focused on modifications to CPT to better align with the cognitive and communication needs of individuals with ASD. The session emphasizes maintaining fidelity to CPT while making clinically appropriate adjustments to improve accessibility, engagement, and outcomes for individuals on the autism spectrum.
Register for the live workshop today and enhance your expertise as a trauma therapist. Download a full course description [HERE].

Workshop Details
Presenter: Drew Wheat, M.S., LCMHC, CRC
Date & Time: September 3, 2026 from 11 am – 1 pm CT (Online via Zoom)
Eligibility: Mental Health Care Providers with foundational CPT training
CE Credits offered: 2
Cost: Registration fee of $50 per attendee
Cancellation, Substitutions, and Refunds
Registration fees, minus a $25 service charge, will be refunded to participants who send a written cancellation via email to admin@strongstartraining.org postmarked no less than 15 days before the training. No refunds will be made thereafter. A colleague may be substituted for no extra charge if STRONG STAR Training Initiative is notified at least two business days before the training. In some cases, you may be able to reschedule to a future Learning Community with no additional cost.
Please note Agenda time is based on Central Time Zone
| Time | Content |
| 11:00 AM – 11:10 PM CT | Introduction and overview of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) |
| 11:10 AM – 11:30 PM CT | Clinical considerations for therapy and CPT with clients with ASD |
| 11:30 PM – 11:50 PM CST | Case study and discussion |
| 11:50 PM – 12:30 PM CT | Adaptations to CPT and Practice Exercise #1 |
| 12:30 PM – 12:50 PM CT | Practice Exercise #2 |
| 12:50 PM – 1:00 PM CT | Q&A, conclusion, and resources |

