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Downstate Hosts Brooklyn’s First Neurodiversity & Transition Symposium

By Office of the President | Jan 14, 2025

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In December, Downstate hosted Brooklyn’s first symposium on “Neurodiversity and Transition to Adulthood,” bringing together over 360 clinicians, educators, families, and self-advocates for actionable insights and strategies to improve outcomes for neurodiverse populations.

Co-sponsored by the College of Medicine (COM) and the School of Health Professions (SOHP), the event, led by Allen Lewis, Ph.D., SOHP Dean, and Harris Huberman, M.D., MPH, Director of the Division of Child Development, highlighted Downstate’s LEND program, a nationally funded model for interdisciplinary care that trains future leaders to support individuals with neurodevelopmental disabilities, including autism.

The day featured three panels:

  • Foundations for Success explored developmental milestones, early mental health interventions, and advocacy strategies for navigating transitions like preschool and kindergarten entry.
  • Transitioning to Adulthood addressed IEP planning, services from the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities, and systemic changes to support adult services and employment.
  • Mental Health and Beyond examined mental health care for neurodiverse individuals, emphasizing personalized treatment plans and better service access.

A final roundtable, led by Jennifer Morrison-Diallo, Ph.D., and featuring Ramaswamy Viswanathan, M.D., tackled systemic barriers and interdisciplinary solutions to improve transitions. Experts from Downstate, YAI, AHRC, Health + Hospitals, and other organizations joined families and self-advocates to share insights, reinforcing the need for collaboration, advocacy, and innovation in supporting neurodiverse individuals.

Thank you to all, including Edeline Mitton, MEd, MPH, Director of Continuing Medical Education, who contributed to this impactful event, reaffirming Downstate’s dedication to advancing care and advocacy for neurodiverse communities. Click here to learn more and view related videos.