Weekly Wednesday Webinar Series
Autism Acceptance in Action:
Real Tools for Real Life
Week 5: April 29, 2026
Understanding Suicide Risk in Autism
FREE
Live Webinar
April 29
12 PM EST
&
repeated
*7 PM EST
1 Hour Session
Introductory
Target Audience
What you'll gain...
Knowledge
Understanding
Tools
Course Information
Course References
Hill, R. M., & Katusic, M. (2020). Examining Suicide Risk In Individuals With Autism Spectrum Disorder Via the Interpersonal Theory of Suicide: Clinical Insights and Recommendations. Children’s Health Care, 16(4), 1–21. https://doi.org/10.1080/02739615.2020.1741360
Rebbettes, J., & Bacon, A. M. (2025). A Qualitative Exploration of Self-Harm Among Autistic Women. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-025-06955-0
Pearson, A., & Rose, K. (2021). A Conceptual Analysis of Autistic Masking: Understanding the Narrative of Stigma and the Illusion of Choice. Autism in Adulthood, 3(1), 52–60. https://doi.org/10.1089/aut.2020.0043
Miller, D., Rees, J., & Pearson, A. (2021). “Masking Is Life”: Experiences of Masking n Autistic and Nonautistic Adults. Autism in Adulthood, 3(4). https://doi.org/10.1089/aut.2020.0083
APA Continuing Education Information
Course Outline
0:00 – 0:05 (5 min) — Introduction & Orientation
- Presenter introduction, credentials, and disclosures
- Review of learning objectives
- Overview of session structure and expectations
0:05 – 0:15 (10 min) — Overview of Suicide Risk in Autism
- Review prevalence and elevated risk trends
- Key contributing factors
- Distinction between general vs. autism-specific risk factors
0:15 – 0:30 (15 min) — Recognizing Warning Signs
- Differences in presentation compared to neurotypical populations:
- Communication considerations:
- Challenges in recognition
0:30 – 0:45 (15 min) — Applied Case Activity
0:45 – 0:55 (10 min) — Protective Factors & Support Strategies
- Building protective supports
- Practical strategies
- Emphasis on respecting autonomy and reducing barriers to help-seeking
0:55 – 1:00 (5 min) — Summary & Closing
- Review key takeaways
- Revisit learning objectives
Robert Schmus, MSW, LCSW
Robert serves as a mental health professional, as well as an autistic self-advocate. In his practice, Robert supports the neurodiverse community, including autistic individuals, using a variety of therapeutic interventions. His experience as a clinical professional on the autism spectrum places him in a unique role. As a self-advocate, Robert has experience educating communities on topics relating to the autistic and neurodiverse communities, such as employment, masking, relationships, mental health, independence, and self-advocacy. He has done this through podcast interviews and conference speaking. Such examples include being a keynote speaker at the 44th Annual Philadelphia Regional Developmental Disabilities Conference at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia in October 2022, being on a panel for the United Nations/Institute of Neurodiversity’s Autism Awareness Day in April 2024, as well as conducting a workshop on social networking at the Massachusetts Advocates Standing Strong (MASS) 25th Gala and Self Advocacy Conference in May 2023. He enjoys posting helpful content on his social media accounts.
Maleita Olson, LCSW, NADD-CC
Maleita Olson, LCSW, is a co-founder and former executive director of Spectra Support Services, LLC. She is a licensed clinical social worker in PA. During Maleita’s 30 plus year career, she has worked for in community-based, institutional, government and medical settings, with a primary focus on serving individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.
Timothy Olson, BS
Timothy Olson is an autistic adult, neurodiverse public speaker, and advocate focused on mental health awareness and the recognition of neurodiversity. Diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome at age five, he received support throughout his schooling for his giftedness, autism, and ADHD, and went on to earn a degree in Physics from Elon University.
Since 2019, Tim has represented autism advocates on panels at his university and at local conferences, including Next Steps Into Adulthood hosted by the Center for Autism Research at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. He currently works as a peer mentor supporting young adults with Autism and/or intellectual disabilities with significant support needs, blending lived experience with professional insight from his work as a Direct Support Professional.
In addition to his advocacy, Tim is an emerging environmental professional with a focus on sustainability and reducing carbon footprints. He is passionate about public transportation and the environment, and enjoys cycling, music, and performing as a member of a local acapella group in the greater Philadelphia area.