Resources

Hello and welcome to the AAIDD-WI Resources page! Information is added frequently, so please check back often. If you have information you would like to see added or problems with this page (e.g., broken links), please contact aaiddwi@gmail.com. Page content and links are provided as a public service only.

Assessment

 

Foundational Definitions & Diagnostic Criteria

🩺 Clinical Assessment Tools & Health Guidelines

  • IDD Toolkit – Vanderbilt University
    This toolkit offers best-practice tools for primary care providers managing adults with IDD, including health watch tables and mental health resources.
    🔗 IDD Toolkit(iddtoolkit.vkcsites.org)

  • Canadian IDD Health Check Tool
    Developed by the College of Family Physicians of Canada, this tool provides a comprehensive health assessment framework for adults with IDD, focusing on preventive care.
    🔗 IDD Health Check(cfpc.ca)

  • Clinical Practice Guidelines (India)
    These guidelines offer insights into the assessment and management of intellectual disabilities, including diagnostic criteria and intervention strategies.
    🔗 Clinical Practice Guidelines

  • Wisconsin Department of Health Services – IDD Programs
    Provides information on programs and resources available in Wisconsin for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities.
    🔗 Wisconsin DHS – Disabilities(dhs.wisconsin.gov)

🧰 Assessment Instruments & Tools

  • Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales
    A widely used tool for assessing adaptive behavior in individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
    🔗 Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales(arxiv.org)

  • Das–Naglieri Cognitive Assessment System (CAS)
    An assessment system focusing on cognitive processes, useful in evaluating children and adults with intellectual disabilities.
    🔗 Das–Naglieri CAS(en.wikipedia.org)

  • Adult IDD Evaluation Tools – NWACS
    A curated list of tools and resources for evaluating adolescents and adults with complex communication needs and IDD.
    🔗 NWACS Evaluation Tools(nwacs.info)

🧾 Policy & Practice Guidelines

  • APA Guidelines for Assessment and Intervention with Persons with Disabilities
    These guidelines assist psychologists in the assessment and intervention processes for individuals with disabilities.
    🔗 APA Assessment Guidelines(apa.org)

  • Royal College of Psychiatrists – Assessment Guidance
    Provides comprehensive guidance on the assessment and diagnosis of intellectual disabilities, emphasizing best practices.
    🔗 Assessment and Diagnosis Guidance (PDF)(rcpsych.ac.uk)

  • Wisconsin IDD-MH System Improvement Report
    A report detailing recommendations for improving systems and services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and mental health needs in Wisconsin.
    🔗 Wisconsin IDD-MH Report(dhs.wisconsin.gov)

📈 Quality Monitoring & Research

  • National Core Indicators (NCI)
    A collaborative effort to collect and maintain valid and reliable data on the performance of public human service systems for individuals with IDD.
    🔗 National Core Indicators(en.wikipedia.org)

  • Journal of Intellectual & Developmental Disability
    A multidisciplinary journal publishing research in the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities.
    🔗 Journal Information

If you need further information or assistance with specific assessment tools or guidelines, feel free to as

Autism

 

  1. American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD) – Autism Resources
    AAIDD offers comprehensive materials on autism, including definitions, diagnostic criteria, and support systems.
    🔗 AAIDD Autism Resources

  2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
    The CDC provides up-to-date information on ASD, including signs, symptoms, screening, and data statistics.
    🔗 CDC ASD Information

  3. Autism Speaks – Toolkits and Resources
    Autism Speaks offers a variety of toolkits for different stages of life, from early diagnosis to adulthood.
    🔗 Autism Speaks Toolkits

  4. National Autism Center – Evidence-Based Practice and Guidelines
    This center provides resources on evidence-based practices for autism treatment and assessment.
    🔗 National Autism Center

  5. Autism Society – Advocacy and Support
    The Autism Society offers support, advocacy, and education for individuals with autism and their families.
    🔗 Autism Society

  6. Wisconsin Department of Health Services – Autism Services
    Information on services available in Wisconsin for individuals with autism, including early intervention and support programs.
    🔗 Wisconsin DHS Autism Services

  7. Wisconsin Early Autism Project (WEAP)
    WEAP provides personalized Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy tailored to the needs of children with autism.
    🔗 WEAP

  8. Understanding Autism – DPI Autism Interviews (Wisconsin)
    A series of interviews featuring students, families, and educators discussing experiences with autism in Wisconsin.
    🔗 DPI Autism Interviews

  9. Autism Spectrum Disorders as an Emerging Global Public Health Concern
    A comprehensive discussion on the global impact and public health considerations of autism spectrum disorders.
    🔗 Global Public Health Concern Video

  10. Evaluation and Support of Autistic Adults in Psychiatric Practice
    Dr. Elizabeth Wise presents on aging with autism and the evaluation and support strategies in psychiatric practice.
    🔗 Autistic Adults in Psychiatric Practice

🎥 AAIDD Wisconsin – Autism-Focused Videos

AAIDD Wisconsin has produced several informative videos addressing autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities:

  1. Dr. Aruna Tummala, MD – Integrative Approaches for Individuals with Autism and IDD
    Dr. Tummala discusses holistic and integrative methods for supporting individuals with autism and IDD.
    🔗 Watch Video

  2. The Science Behind Autism Diagnosis
    An exploration of the methodologies and scientific principles involved in diagnosing autism.
    🔗 Watch Video

  3. Evaluation and Support of Autistic Adults in Psychiatric Practice
    Insights into the psychiatric evaluation and support mechanisms for autistic adults.
    🔗 Watch Video

Burnout, Compasion Fatigue & Self-Care

.

🧠 Understanding Compassion Fatigue & Caregiver Burnout

  1. Compassion Fatigue Awareness Project
    Offers comprehensive insights into compassion fatigue, including self-assessment tools, educational materials, and strategies for sustainable self-care.
    🔗 compassionfatigue.org

  2. Caregiver Action Network: Understanding Caregiver Burnout
    Provides information on the signs of caregiver burnout and compassion fatigue, along with practical tips to manage stress and maintain health.
    🔗 caregiveraction.org

  3. SAMHSA: Compassion Fatigue and Self-care Resources for Crisis Counselors
    Offers resources and strategies to help crisis counselors and caregivers recognize and address compassion fatigue.
    🔗 samhsa.gov

  4. Verywell Mind: Compassion Fatigue – The Toll of Caring Too Much
    Discusses the emotional and physical impacts of compassion fatigue and offers guidance on prevention and recovery.
    🔗 verywellmind.com

🧰 Self-Care Strategies & Support Tools

  1. PAVE: Self-Care is Critical for Caregivers with Unique Challenges
    Provides practical self-care tips tailored for caregivers of individuals with disabilities or complex medical needs.
    🔗 wapave.org

  2. Careforth: How to Prevent Compassion Fatigue in Caregivers
    Offers strategies to manage compassion fatigue, including self-care techniques and support resources.
    🔗 careforth.com

  3. ACT Community: Combating Compassion Fatigue for Families and Caregivers
    Features a 13-part workshop exploring the physical and emotional toll of caregiving and strategies to build resilience.
    🔗 actcommunity.ca

  4. Texas Health and Human Services: Caregiver Self-Care
    Provides resources and guidance on self-care practices to help caregivers maintain their mental and physical health.
    🔗 hhs.texas.gov

🎥 Educational Videos on Compassion Fatigue & Self-Care

  1. Coping with Compassion Fatigue
    A video discussing the symptoms of compassion fatigue and self-care methods to help caregivers cope.
    ▶️ Watch on YouTube

  2. Compassion Resilience – Self Care Snapshot Series
    Explores the concept of compassion resilience and offers insights into maintaining wellness across various life sectors.
    ▶️ Watch on YouTube

  3. Resilient Wisconsin: Help the Helper Training
    Raises awareness about the challenges helpers face and provides strategies to build resilience.
    ▶️ Watch on YouTube

  4. Building Recovery and Compassion without Fatigue
    Discusses approaches to maintain compassion in caregiving roles without experiencing fatigue.
    ▶️ Watch on YouTube

📚 Additional Resources

  • Wikipedia: Compassion Fatigue
    An overview of compassion fatigue, its symptoms, prevention, and mitigation strategies.
    🔗 en.wikipedia.org

  • Online Masters Degrees: Combating Compassion Fatigue
    Provides guidance for social work students and professionals on recognizing and managing compassion fatigue.
    🔗 onlinemastersdegrees.org

  • Verywell Health: Caregiver Stress and Compassion Fatigue
    Explores the distinctions between caregiver stress and compassion fatigue, offering coping strategies.
    🔗 verywellhealth.com

Dementia

Dementia & IDD: Screening Tools and Resources

  1. Dementia Scale for Down Syndrome (DSDS)
    A behavioral assessment tool designed to detect cognitive decline in individuals with Down syndrome, applicable to others with IDD.
    🔗 Archived DSDS Resource

  2. Down Syndrome Dementia Questionnaire (DSDQ)
    A caregiver-completed tool for tracking functional changes over time in individuals with Down syndrome.
    🔗 Archived DSDQ PDF

🧪 Landmark Research Studies

3. Ornish Lifestyle Medicine Trial (2024)

Dr. Dean Ornish led a randomized controlled trial demonstrating that intensive lifestyle changes—plant-based diet, exercise, stress management, and social support—significantly improved cognition and function in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or early Alzheimer’s disease over 20 weeks.
🔗 Study Summary
🔗 Full Study PDFmedicalnewstoday.com+8pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+8alzres.biomedcentral.com+8

4. FINGER Trial (Finnish Geriatric Intervention Study)

The first large-scale study to show that a multidomain lifestyle intervention—including diet, physical activity, cognitive training, and vascular risk monitoring—can prevent cognitive decline in at-risk older adults.
🔗 FINGER Study Overviewalz-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com+12en.wikipedia.org+12fbhi.se+12

5. FINGER-NL (Dutch Adaptation)

A 2-year randomized controlled trial in the Netherlands assessing the effectiveness of a personalized, multidomain lifestyle intervention on cognitive functioning in older adults at risk of cognitive decline.
🔗 FINGER-NL Study Detailsalzres.biomedcentral.com+1pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+1

🧰 Additional Tools & Guidelines

  1. National Task Group on Intellectual Disabilities and Dementia Practices (NTG)
    Provides guidelines and resources for the care of adults with IDD affected by dementia.
    🔗 NTG Resources

  2. Alzheimer’s Association – Dementia & IDD
    Offers information and support for individuals with IDD who are affected by Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias.
    🔗 Alzheimer’s Association IDD Resources

Equestrian Therapy

1. Willow Creek Ranch – Mukwonago, WI

A PATH Intl. member center offering therapeutic riding for children and adults with various disabilities, including autism and Down syndrome.
🔗 Willow Creek Ranchwillowcreekranch.org

2. BEAMING Inc. – Neenah, WI

Provides equine-assisted therapy and therapeutic horseback riding for individuals with autism, PTSD, ADHD, and other challenges.
🔗 BEAMING Inc.csranch.org+5beaminginc.org+5beaminginc.org+5

3. LifeStriders – Waukesha, WI

Offers integrative cognitive and physical therapies, including equine-assisted activities, for individuals with special needs.
🔗 LifeStridersdreamerwellnesscenter.com+11lifestriders.org+11csranch.org+11

4. Exceptional Equestrians – De Pere, WI

Provides medically based equine-assisted sessions, including hippotherapy and adaptive riding, for children, teens, and adults.
🔗 Exceptional Equestriansexceptionalequestrians.org+1beaminginc.org+1

5. Three Gaits – Stoughton, WI

Offers therapeutic riding and hippotherapy to enhance the lives of people with physical, emotional, or intellectual disabilities.
🔗 Three Gaitsthree-gaits.org

6. Helping Hands Healing Hooves – Cedarburg, WI

A non-profit therapeutic equine-assisted riding program encouraging individuals of all ages to develop their full potential.
🔗 Helping Hands Healing Hoovescsranch.org+5helpinghandshealinghooves.org+5willowcreekranch.org+5

7. Cedar Springs Therapeutic Ranch – Slinger, WI

Provides equine and animal-assisted programs for those with cognitive, physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual needs.
🔗 Cedar Springs Therapeutic Ranchcsranch.org

8. Creating Pathways Farm – Sussex, WI

Offers equine-assisted therapy integrating traditional therapy with the healing aspects of interacting with horses, following the Eagala model.
🔗 Creating Pathways Farmeagala.org+3creatingpathwaysfarm.com+3eagala.org+3

9. Dreamer Wellness Center – Mequon, WI

Provides equine therapy programs following the Eagala model, focusing on emotional and behavioral difficulties.
🔗 Dreamer Wellness Centereagala.org

10. Triquestrian, LLC – Verona, WI

Offers a full range of equine-assisted psychotherapy and learning services, including Eagala-certified programs.
🔗 Triquestrian, LLCeagala.org

🌐 Eagala-Certified Providers in Wisconsin

The Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (Eagala) offers a model of equine-assisted psychotherapy and personal development. Eagala-certified professionals in Wisconsin include:willowcreekranch.org+6en.wikipedia.org+6verywellhealth.com+6eagala.org+1vancecreektherapy.com+1

To find more Eagala-certified professionals in Wisconsin, visit the Eagala directory:

🔗 Eagala Certified Professionals in Wiscon.

Finances

 

🏛️ Wisconsin-Based Financial & Benefits Resources

  1. ACCESS Wisconsin
    A centralized portal to apply for and manage state benefits, including Medicaid, FoodShare, and SSI-related programs.
    🔗 access.wi.gov

  2. Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs)
    Local centers offering guidance on benefits, long-term care, and financial assistance for individuals with disabilities.
    🔗 dhs.wisconsin.gov/adrc

  3. Disability Rights Wisconsin – Public Benefits Assistance
    Provides information and advocacy for programs like SSI, Medicaid, and housing assistance.
    🔗 disabilityrightswi.org

  4. Economic Support Programs – Crawford County Example
    Offers assistance for those facing unemployment, disability, or economic hardship.
    🔗 crawfordcountywi.gov

  5. Wisconsin Department of Health Services – Elderly and Disabled Programs
    Information on Medicaid waivers, long-term care, and other support services.
    🔗 dhs.wisconsin.gov/legislative/ebd.htm

  6. County Elderly and Disabled Transportation Assistance
    Provides financial assistance for transportation services to seniors and individuals with disabilities.
    🔗 wisconsindot.gov

🇺🇸 National Financial & Benefits Resources

  1. National Disability Institute – Financial Resilience Center
    Offers resources on credit, Social Security benefits, taxes, employment, housing, and more.
    🔗 nationaldisabilityinstitute.org

  2. The Arc – Financial Planning Resources
    Provides guidance on saving money, navigating public benefits, ABLE accounts, and special needs trusts.
    🔗 thearc.org

  3. ABLE Accounts
    Tax-advantaged savings accounts for individuals with disabilities, allowing them to save without affecting eligibility for certain public benefits.
    🔗 ablenrc.org

  4. Social Security Administration – Benefits for People with Disabilities
    Information on SSI, SSDI, and other programs for individuals with disabilities.
    🔗 ssa.gov/benefits/disability

  5. Medicaid Home & Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers
    Supports individuals with disabilities to receive care in their homes or communities.
    🔗 medicaid.gov

  6. Ticket to Work Program
    A free and voluntary program that supports career development for Social Security disability beneficiaries.
    🔗 choosework.ssa.gov

  7. National Resource Directory
    Connects service members, veterans, and their families with national, state, and local support resources.
    🔗 nrd.gov

  8. Investopedia – Financial Planning for Families With Disabilities
    Offers insights into financial planning, including ABLE accounts and special needs trusts.
    🔗 investopedia.com

  9. Inclusive Higher Education – Financial Resources for College Students with IDD
    Information on funding options for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities pursuing higher education.
    🔗 inclusivehighered.org

 

If you need assistance navigating these resources or have specific questions about eligibility and applications, feel free to ask!

Genetics

🧬 Genetics & Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) – Resources

  1. GeneReviews®
    Expert-authored, peer-reviewed summaries on the diagnosis and management of inherited conditions.
    🔗 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK1116/

  2. Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM)
    Comprehensive catalog of human genes and genetic disorders.
    🔗 https://www.omim.org/

  3. Deciphering Developmental Disorders (DDD) Study
    UK-based project advancing diagnostics in pediatric genetics through large-scale sequencing.
    🔗 http://www.ddduk.org

  4. The Lancet – DDD Article
    Key study linking new sequencing technologies to the diagnosis of developmental disorders.
    🔗 PDF article
    🔗 Commentary

  5. Genetics Home Reference (Now integrated into MedlinePlus Genetics)
    Layperson-friendly guide to genetic conditions, inherited traits, and gene function.
    🔗 https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/

🔬 Additional Genetic & IDD Resources

  1. Simons Foundation Autism Research Initiative (SFARI)
    Resources and research on the genetic basis of autism and related neurodevelopmental disorders.
    🔗 https://www.sfari.org

  2. National Human Genome Research Institute – Genetic Disorders
    Includes resources on chromosomal abnormalities and IDD-relevant syndromes (e.g., Fragile X, Rett).
    🔗 https://www.genome.gov/Genetic-Disorders

  3. DECIPHER (Database of Chromosomal Imbalance and Phenotype in Humans)
    Helps clinicians interpret genomic variants in people with developmental disorders.
    🔗 https://www.deciphergenomics.org

  4. Unique – Rare Chromosome Disorder Support Group
    Educational guides and family support for rare genetic conditions.
    🔗 https://rarechromo.org

  5. Global Genes – Rare Disease Resources
    Advocacy and support network for rare genetic disorders, many of which are linked to IDD.
    🔗 https://globalgenes.org

  6. Rett Syndrome Research Trust
    Focused on accelerating treatment for Rett syndrome, a neurodevelopmental disorder with a genetic cause.
    🔗 https://reverserett.org

  7. FRAXA Research Foundation
    Dedicated to finding treatments for Fragile X syndrome.
    🔗 https://www.fraxa.org

  8. Autism & Schizophrenia Genetic Overlap
    Overview of shared genetic vulnerabilities and biomarkers.
    🔗 NCBI Review

  9. The Brainstorm Consortium
    Collaborative project mapping genetic correlations between psychiatric and neurological conditions.
    🔗 https://www.nature.com/articles/s41588-018-0120-6

Mental Health

  1. American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD)
    Advocacy, research, and training resources on dual diagnosis (IDD + mental illness).
    https://www.aaidd.org

  2. National Association for the Dually Diagnosed (NADD)
    Training, certification, and advocacy for individuals with both IDD and mental illness.
    https://thenadd.org

  3. Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities National Training Center (MHDD)
    Free courses and training modules to support professionals working with MH/IDD.
    https://www.mhddcenter.org

  4. The Arc – Mental Health and IDD
    Public policy, family support, and health equity for people with co-occurring conditions.
    https://thearc.org

  5. Tips for Mental Health Providers Serving Adults with IDD (Vanderbilt Kennedy Center)
    Practical, evidence-informed provider guidance.
    https://tipsheets.vkcsites.org

  6. Center for START Services (UNH)
    National initiative on crisis prevention and intervention for people with IDD and mental illness.
    https://centerforstartservices.org

  7. SAMHSA – Behavioral Health for People with IDD
    U.S. government resource hub for improving services.
    https://www.samhsa.gov

  8. UCEDD (University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities)
    Many UCEDDs conduct work on mental health and IDD; see national directory.
    https://www.aucd.org

  9. National Center for Advancing Person-Centered Practices and Systems (NCAPPS)
    Training, webinars, and resources for person-centered IDD mental health care.
    https://ncapps.acl.gov

  10. Minnesota Department of Human Services – Mental Health & Developmental Disabilities
    State-level example of best practices in dual diagnosis treatment and services.
    https://mn.gov/dhs

🔬 Research & Educational Resources on Autism–Schizophrenia Overlap

  1. PubMed Central – “Autism Spectrum Disorder and Schizophrenia: Overlapping Profiles”
    Peer-reviewed meta-analysis examining shared features and differentiation.
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8931527

  2. Nature – “Shared and Disorder-Specific Neurodevelopmental Alterations in ASD and Schizophrenia”
    High-impact neuroscience article with genetic and brain-imaging data.
    https://www.nature.com/articles/pr9201190

  3. Verywell Mind – “The Relationship Between Autism and Schizophrenia”
    Clinically reviewed article on symptom overlap and research findings.
    https://www.verywellmind.com/the-relationship-between-autism-and-schizophrenia-6748936

  4. Psychiatric Times – “Autism Spectrum Disorders and Psychosis: Diagnostic Challenges”
    Review of diagnostic overshadowing and differential diagnosis.
    https://www.psychiatrictimes.com/view/autism-spectrum-disorders-and-psychosis-diagnostic-challenges

  5. Autism Research Institute – Research Articles and Position Papers
    Archive of studies, including references to schizophrenia overlap.
    https://www.autism.org/research/

📘 Additional Advocacy, Training, and Clinical Guidance

  1. National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP)
    Workforce development and advocacy to improve MH/IDD support quality.
    https://www.nadsp.org

  2. AAIDD Mental Health Services SIG (archived)
    Archive of resources on co-occurring conditions via the Wayback Machine.
    https://web.archive.org/web/20230327183648/http:/gra.midco.net/pdkolstoe/MHS/

  3. Association of University Centers on Disabilities (AUCD) – Mental Health
    Public health and advocacy programs, often with dual diagnosis content.
    https://www.aucd.o

  4. Karyn Harvey, PhD – Trauma-Informed Support for People with IDD
    Leading scholar-practitioner in trauma and IDD mental health.
    https://karynharvey.org

Positive Behavior Supports (PBS)

 

1. Association for Positive Behavior Support (APBS)

A leading international organization promoting PBS through research, policy, and practice. Offers professional development, tools, and annual conferences.
🔗 APBS Website

2. Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) – U.S. Department of Education

A federally supported framework that applies PBS in schools to improve social, emotional, and academic outcomes for all students, including those with disabilities.
🔗 PBIS.org

3. Technical Assistance Center on Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (OSEP PBIS TA Center)

An evidence-based framework supported by the U.S. Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) with tiered interventions for individual and systemic supports.
🔗 PBIS TA Center

4. Positive Behavior Support (PBS) Resource Center – Florida Center for Inclusive Communities (FCIC)

Offers free training materials, family resources, and implementation guides on PBS in home, school, and community settings.
🔗 PBS Florida Resource Center

5. The National Center for Pyramid Model Innovations (NCPMI)

Focuses on PBS for young children, especially those with disabilities, using the Pyramid Model to support social-emotional development in early childhood.
🔗 ChallengingBehavior.org

6. Positive Behavioral Support Strategies – Vanderbilt Kennedy Center

Practical tools for caregivers and educators to reduce challenging behavior and increase independence in people with IDD.
🔗 Vanderbilt PBS Resources

7. Behavior Support Plan Template – IRIS Center

A structured guide and downloadable templates for developing individualized PBS plans in educational settings.
🔗 IRIS Module on Behavior Plans

8. The Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) – PBS Division

Promotes PBS within the field of special education and offers publications, webinars, and standards.
🔗 CEC PBIS Division

9. AAIDD Positive Behavior Supports Special Interest Network

Supports evidence-based PBS implementation with a focus on ethical and person-centered practices for individuals with IDD.
🔗 AAIDD PBS Network

10. University of Kansas Center for Positive Behavioral Supports

A hub for PBS research and tools used across schools, residential programs, and families.
🔗 KU Center for PBS

If you need help selecting specific training materials or tools for use in schools, adult services, or family settings, I’d be happy to tailor recommendations.

Sexuality

🔹 Disability and Sexuality Access Network (DASAN)

Overview: A community led primarily by self-advocates with disabilities advocating for inclusive, informed conversations about sex, relationships, and bodily autonomy.
Focus Areas: Peer education, advocacy, inclusive access.

🔹 Ethical Dilemmas: Sexuality and Developmental Disability – NADD Publication

Overview: This book explores complex ethical and legal questions surrounding sexuality and people with developmental disabilities.
Topics Include:

  • Consent to treatment

  • Sex education

  • Sexual abuse prevention

  • Legal perspectives on consent

  • Sexual offending

  • Parenting and human rights

🔹 Heart Consulting, LLC

Overview: A Wisconsin-based organization supporting professionals and families in preventing sexual and domestic violence against people with disabilities.
Resources Include:

  • Trainings and webinars

  • Policy development

  • Advocacy for inclusive safety practices

🔹 Sexuality for All Abilities

Overview: Provides tools and guidance for parents, caregivers, and educators on discussing dating, relationships, and sex with people with disabilities.
Features:

  • Curriculum guides

  • Communication strategies

  • Developmentally appropriate teaching resources

🔹 The Arc’s National Center on Criminal Justice and Disability (NCCJD)

Overview: Offers education on how the criminal justice system intersects with issues of consent, exploitation, and abuse among people with IDD.
Resources Include:

  • Victim support tools

  • Legal rights education

  • Training for law enforcement and caregivers

🔹 Sexuality and Disability Consortium

Overview: Provides professional development, research, and resources addressing sexuality for people with developmental and physical disabilities.
Audience: Clinicians, educators, and families

🔹 Planned Parenthood – Sexuality Education for People with Disabilities

Overview: Offers inclusive, nonjudgmental sexual health education tools designed for young people and adults with disabilities.

🔹 Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN) – Relationship Skills Resources

Overview: Offers accessible guides for autistic individuals on navigating dating, consent, boundaries, and healthy communication.

🔹 Elevatus Training

Overview: Offers curricula and staff training focused on healthy relationships and sexuality education for people with IDD.
Resources Include:

  • Train-the-trainer programs

  • Age-appropriate lesson plans

  • Resources for agencies and families

🔹 University of Alberta – Supporting Sexual Health for People with Disabilities

 

Overview: Ongoing research and advocacy for improving sexual health services for people with disabilities.

Best Mattress Reviews: Mattress and Bedding Guide for People with Disabilities.

Spirituality and Religion

 

1. David Morstad – Author and Advocate

  • Book: Whole Community: Introducing Faith Communities to People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
    Practical guide for inclusive ministry. Emphasizes moving from charity to mutual community.
    🔗 Book at WestBow Press

  • Blog: Larger Table
    Ongoing reflections on disability, theology, and inclusive spiritual life.
    🔗 Larger Table Blog

2. AAIDD Religion and Spirituality Interest Network

A national interfaith group that promotes inclusion, dignity, and spiritual fulfillment for people with IDD. Hosts webinars, publishes newsletters, and collaborates with faith leaders.
🔗 AAIDD Religion and Spirituality Network

3. “God and the Group Home” – David Morstad Presentation

A powerful call to service providers and faith leaders to bridge the gap between residential services and spiritual needs.
🔗 PDF of Presentation

4. Journal of Disability & Religion

Academic journal exploring the intersection of disability studies and faith traditions, with peer-reviewed articles and case studies.
🔗 Journal Home

5. The Collaborative on Faith and Disability

Supports congregations and disability organizations in creating inclusive spiritual environments. Offers practical toolkits, research, and professional development.
🔗 faithanddisability.org

6. NCPD – National Catholic Partnership on Disability

Provides Catholic-centered guidance on inclusion, catechesis, and sacramental participation for persons with IDD.
🔗 NCPD Website

7. That All May Worship – Interfaith Resource

A guidebook developed by the Interfaith Disability Advocacy Coalition to assist faith communities in becoming more accessible and welcoming.
🔗 Download Guidebook

8. Friendship Ministries – Together Curriculum

Christian faith formation resources for people with intellectual disabilities, including Bible studies and accessible materials.
🔗 Friendship Ministries

9. Institute on Theology and Disability – Summer Institute and Library

An annual event and resource hub for faith leaders, theologians, and disability advocates exploring inclusive theology and practice.
🔗 Institute Website

10. Mental Retardation and Religion: An Overview (historical resource)

A foundational document from the AAIDD Religion Division providing early frameworks for engaging faith and IDD.
🔗 View Resource

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Trauma

  1. Trauma and Healing in the Lives of People With Intellectual Disability – Karyn Harvey
    This comprehensive guide offers practical strategies for therapists and direct support professionals (DSPs) to address trauma in individuals with IDD. It includes therapeutic materials and emphasizes the importance of safety, connection, and empowerment in the healing process.

  2. Trauma-Informed Behavioral Interventions: What Works and What Doesn’t – Karyn Harvey
    Harvey critiques traditional behavior plans that overlook trauma, advocating for approaches that recognize trauma responses. The book provides case studies and introduces “mental health plans” tailored for individuals with IDD.

  3. Trauma-Informed Service Programs – Relias Academy
    Based on Harvey’s work, this online course educates professionals on implementing trauma-informed care at the programmatic level, highlighting the significance of safety, connection, and agency.

🧠 Research & Practice Resources

  1. The Link Center – Trauma and Trauma-Informed Practices
    An initiative by the U.S. Administration for Community Living, this resource hub offers webinars, worksheets, and articles on trauma-informed care for individuals with IDD, emphasizing the creation of restorative environments and healthy relationships.

  2. Responding to Trauma: An Interview with Dr. Karyn Harvey – Hogg Foundation for Mental Health
    In this interview, Harvey discusses the prevalence of trauma in individuals with IDD and the necessity of trauma-informed approaches that prioritize safety, connection, and empowerment.

  3. Risking Connection Change Model for IDD – Traumatic Stress Institute
    This model emphasizes whole-system transformation to trauma-informed care, advocating for organizational change to better support individuals with IDD who have experienced trauma.

🎥 Multimedia Learning

  1. Understanding Trauma-Informed Care for IDD: Insights from Karyn Harvey – Friends for Life Resource Center
    This article provides insights from Harvey on implementing trauma-informed care practices for individuals with IDD, focusing on healing and empowerment.

  2. Trauma & Individuals with IDD – YouTube Video
    Dr. Harvey explores the sources and effects of trauma in the lives of people with intellectual disabilities, discussing the biological and psychological impacts and pathways to healing.

🧰 Practical Tools & Workbooks

 

  1. Positive Identity Development Workbooks – Karyn Harvey
    A collection of downloadable resources designed to help individuals with IDD build a positive sense of self, cope with trauma, and foster resilience.

  2. Trauma-Informed Behavioral Support Training – YouTube Video
    A training session led by Dr. Karyn Harvey, outlining trauma-informed behavioral support strategies for individuals with IDD, emphasizing the importance of understanding trauma responses. 

Other IDD-Related Organizations

Wisconsin-Based IDD-Focused Organizations

1. Disability Service Provider Network (DSPN)

DSPN is Wisconsin’s leading trade association for vocational and residential organizations supporting individuals with disabilities. They offer advocacy, educational resources, and training programs like the DSP Magnet Roadmap Training and the IntellectAbility Training Series.
🔗 Visit DSPNguidestar.org+5dspn.org+5dspn.org+5

2. Southeast Wisconsin Training Initiative (SEWTI)

SEWTI is a non-profit group providing affordable training to caregivers and professionals on issues affecting persons with developmental disabilities. Their workshops cover topics like positive behavior supports and dementia in people with intellectual disabilities.
🔗 Visit SEWTIsew-ti.com+1o4cg.com+1

3. The Arc Wisconsin

The Arc Wisconsin promotes and protects the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and supports their full inclusion in the community.
🔗 Visit The Arc Wisconsinwi-bpdd.org

4. Wisconsin Board for People with Developmental Disabilities (BPDD)

BPDD works to improve self-determination, independence, productivity, and integration for people with developmental disabilities through advocacy and system change.
🔗 Visit BPDD

5. Wisconsin Family Assistance Center for Education, Training & Support (WI FACETS)

WI FACETS provides training, information, and support to families of children with disabilities, focusing on special education rights and advocacy.
🔗 Visit WI FACETSadagreatlakes.org+2wi-bpdd.org+2wifacets.org+2

6. Disability Rights Wisconsin (DRW)

DRW is a non-profit organization that protects the rights of people with disabilities statewide, advocating for dignity, equality, and self-determination.
🔗 Visit DRWwi-bpdd.org

7. Waisman Center

Affiliated with the University of Wisconsin-Madison, the Waisman Center advances knowledge about human development and developmental disabilities through research, training, and services.
🔗 Visit Waisman Centerwi-bpdd.org

8. Independence First

Serving the Milwaukee area, Independence First offers independent living services, advocacy, and resources to people with disabilities to promote self-determination and community integration.
🔗 Visit Independence Firstadagreatlakes.org

9. Southern Wisconsin Center (SWC)

Operated by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, SWC serves adults with intellectual disabilities combined with other physical or mental health disorders, offering programs to assist them in living in the most appropriate setting.

🔗 Visit SWCdhs.wisconsin.gov.

10. Journey21

Based in Oconomowoc, Journey21 provides safe, supportive, and enriching living and learning options for adults with IDD, including residential programs and community outings. business.waukesha.org+1journey21.org+1

11. Association for the Rights of Citizens with Handicaps (ARCh)

 

Located in Waukesha, ARCh empowers children and adults with disabilities to reach their full potential through advocacy, community education, and unique programs. archchangeslives.org