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MiOTA Fall Conference 2026
Welcome to MiOTA’s Fall Conference 2026!
Friday October 2, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
Neurodiverse children and those who have experienced trauma sometimes struggle to make and keep friends.  They may present with constant control seeking, trouble attending to conversational exchange, difficulty winning or losing games, apathy,  or conversational monopolization.  These behaviors may turn off peers and can stem from difficulty with regulation, self-esteem, or skill deficits.  Also, decreases in felt-safety with peers are common in these children due to sensory processing challenges or past experiences. 
There is a need for greater understanding of the underlying causes of relationship challenges that go beyond simple skill deficits.  This presentation explores foundational characteristics that can underlie social connection difficulties and presents a hierarchy of skills that could lead to increases in connection and ultimately, quality of life.  
Speakers
avatar for Michelle Ann Suarez

Michelle Ann Suarez

Professor, Western Michigan University
 Michelle Suarez, PhD, OTR/L, is an occupational therapist and  Professor of Occupational Therapy at Western Michigan University. Her research, clinical, and teaching interests include pediatric mental health and behavioral health including regulation, feeding, social skills and... Read More →
Friday October 2, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
Beethoven (96)

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