Autism Training

Striving to provide readily accessible and affordable education tools.

“You may earn your degree but education is never over, specialty certifications allow individuals to take steps forward in growth and development that can help an employer land large accounts or receive grants.” – Lyndsey Herrman, CEO, IIES

Our objective at the Autism Council is that the Rochester-area community become a leader in the global Autism community, sharing ideas and best practices in order to assure that every individual on the spectrum receives the treatment and care that they need.

To achieve this, we must all work together to create a community where Autism is looked at no differently than any other personal challenge. We must work to ensure that the entire community is able to properly treat all people with respect and dignity.

There is now a fully accredited Autism Certification program available to help create the fore-mentioned global community. The Autism Council aspires to ensure that our local (Rochester-area) Professional community is included and recognized as leaders in that community. This includes providing the necessary tools and training to do so.

To facilitate this, the Autism Council has established partnerships to bring these types of Autism Education classes to this area, to make it convenient for our Professional community to attain the training and knowledge that these certifications acknowledge.

Specialized Autism Education Classes Available

3 Hour Autism Mandate Training for NYS Teachers $99
14 Hour Autism Certification Competency Prep FOR TEACHERS $299.99
14 Hour Autism Certification Competency Prep FOR PROFESSIONALS $399.99
Custom Professional Development Courses Onsite Cost Per Hour $150.00
School District Elopement Safety Plan Training $499.00
School District Mental Health /Suicide Screening Training $499.00
Designated Town Autism Friendly Business Training $1.00
Designated Town Recreation Department Autism Friendly Training $1.00
Designated Town Autism Friendly Staff Training $1.00

Click Here to Connect with Us for further information.

Currently Scheduled Sessions

Feb 21, 2026 - Autism Mandate Training for NYS Teachers $99
Mar 14, 2026 - Autism Mandate Training for NYS Teachers $99
Apr 11, 2026 - Autism Mandate Training for NYS Teachers $99

Click Here to Register for your specific session on our calendar.

REGISTRATION ELIGIBILITY

Professionals who hold an undergraduate degree or equivalent in a health, mental health, therapeutic, education, music or related field are invited to attend autism training. Requests for exceptions are considered on an individual basis.

Which Certification is Best for Me?

Autism Certificate

The Autism Certificate (AC) is available for all professionals employed in a setting that requires you to work or have contact with individuals with autism. This Autism Certification recognizes professionals dedicated to promoting quality care in the field of Autism.
The Autism Certificate does not require a Master’s degree. If you have your Master’s degree you may qualify for the Certified Autism Specialist Credential.

Eligibility Requirements

Currently employed in a setting that requires you to work or have contact with individuals with Autism

NYS Mandate Autism 3HR Seminar

The New York State Education Department requires all teachers who are seeking initial or professional state certification in special education take a three-hour workshop in the needs of children with autism.

This course has been designed to ensure that students demonstrate foundational knowledge and skill in meeting the needs of students with Autism.

All workshops begin promptly at the scheduled starting time. New York State mandates that you must be present at the start of the workshop in order to receive a certificate of completion. No late admissions will be permitted.

For further information, please email info@theautismcouncil.org

Professionals that typically apply for the AC Credential include

Education Professionals

Other Professionals

Autism Organization Volunteers
ABA Therapists
Childcare Directors
First Responders
Paramedics
Police Officers
Firemen
Medical Assistants
Medical Billing Clerks

Certified Autism Specialist

A Certified Autism Specialist (CAS) is defined as a professional who is responsible for the support and/or services provided to an individual on the Autism spectrum. The CAS credential demonstrates that you have met rigorous standards, demonstrating experience and education in Autism.
To get certified, you will need to be able to document your:

Education Level
Experience and
Professional Development Hours

which are reviewed by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). Once approved, your name and verification number can be viewed on the Global registry by employers and other third parties.
Eligibility Requirements
Master’s Degree & 2+ years experience treating or supporting individuals with autism (OR a Bachelor’s Degree & 10+ years of experience)

Autism Certificate

The Autism Certificate does not require a Master’s degree. If you have your Master’s degree you may qualify for the Certified Autism Specialist Credential.

Eligibility Requirements

Currently employed in a setting that requires you to work or have contact with individuals with Autism

Professionals that typically apply for the AC Credential include:
Education Professionals

Classroom Teachers
Paraprofessionals
School Personnel
School Bus Drivers
Autism Program Support Staff

Other Professionals

Autism Organization Volunteers
ABA Therapists
Childcare Directors
First Responders
Paramedics
Police Officers
Firemen
Medical Assistants
Medical Billing Clerks

Professionals that typically apply for the CAS Credential include

Education Professionals

Special Education Teachers
Special Education Directors
School Psychologists
Behavior Specialists
School Counselors
Classroom Teachers
Principals
School Nurses

Licensed Professionals

Speech Language Pathologists
Occupational Therapists
BCBA and ABA Professionals
Physical Therapists
Psychologists
Clinical Social Workers
Licensed Professional Counselors
RN Nurses

FAQ's

Why pursue a Certification or take Autism Education classes?

Certifications recognize individuals who voluntarily meet rigorous professional standards in ongoing professional development. They also help ensure that these professionals remain current in the field of Autism.

Some primary reasons for pursuing further Autism Education:

ENHANCE YOUR PROFESSIONAL REPUTATION & CREDIBILITY
REDUCE THE CHANCE OF LITIGATION
INCREASE YOUR POTENTIAL FOR CAREER ADVANCEMENT AND EARNINGS
IMPROVE GRANT QUALIFICATIONS
DEMONSTRATE COMPLIANCE WITH SPECIAL EDUCATION LAW

Specialty certifications have grown in reputation, thereby affording Professionals unique career opportunities. They provide valuable independent testimony to a Professional’s specific area of study within ones industry. It is the testimony that in turn provides increased credibility and career opportunities for advancement in the workplace.

Who is part of the “Autism Professional Community”?

A Professional is anyone who is responsible for the support and/or services provided to an individual on the Autism spectrum. This Professional could provide this support in a paid or unpaid capacity. The more commonly recognized professions include:

Education Professionals

Special Education Teachers
Special Education Directors
School Psychologists
Behavior Specialists
School Counselors
Classroom Teachers
Principals
School Nurses

Licensed Professionals

Speech Language Pathologists
Occupational Therapists
BCBA and ABA Professionals
Physical Therapists
Psychologists
Clinical Social Workers
Licensed Professional Counselors
RN Nurses

Are any costs reimbursable?

The U.S Department of Veteran Affairs and the Department of Defense have accredited the Certified Autism Specialist (CAS) and Autism Certification (AC) programs for military veterans, spouses and dependents of military veterans. As a result, the U.S Department of Veteran Affairs will reimburse 100% of the fees associated with the CAS or AC program for anyone using their GI Bill benefits. The goal of the certification programs is to help veterans and their dependents gain a competitive advantage over other applicants by possessing additional training and a certification in the field of Autism.