Overview:  The internet can feel scary, and a caregiver’s response can often be to limit access to technology in an attempt to keep someone safe. However, to move away from a protective model and toward an empowered model, we need to talk about these topics and support neurodivergent teens and adults in making safe decisions online for themselves. Caregivers will learn about safe ways to explore use of technology in seeking pleasure or finding dating partners, how to respond to use of technology in empathetic and positive ways that do not create shame, moving away from punishment, and what to know about laws regarding these topics.

This training meets continuing education requirements for social workers as prescribed by the Wisconsin Department of Regulation and Licensing Chapter MPSW 19.

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Registration Change: All trainings occurring after May 15, 2026 will be processed through a new online system which will require payment via credit/debit card at the time of registration. We will no longer be issuing invoices for training registrations. If you are a caregiver who is wanting a CLTS plan to cover the registration fee, email Michael Truman at mltruman@wisc.edu to coordinate this process. Do not register here.

Registration closes Tuesday, October 20 at 4:00 PM.

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About the Presenter:

Ellen Merker, M.S. LPC, founding director of Heart Consulting LLC, is a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in trauma therapy for kids, teens, and adults with developmental disabilities.  She received her Master’s in Rehabilitation Psychology from UW–Madison, and has been working with neurodivergent kids, teens, and adults in various roles for 15 years. Ellen uses neurodivergent affirmative, sex-positive, and trauma-informed approaches in all work.  In addition to trauma therapy, Heart Consulting also works to reduce gendered violence against people with developmental disabilities through education and training.  Ellen also has extensive speaking experience, and has presented at conferences including Wisconsin Human Trafficking Conference, WI Planned Parenthood, National Project Search Conference, Wisconsin Reproductive Health Conference, and the Circles of Life Conference.

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Community Outreach Wisconsin and the Waisman Center value inclusion and access for all participants and are pleased to provide reasonable accommodations for this event. Please contact Michael Truman at mltruman@wisc.edu to make a reasonable accommodation request. Requests must be submitted by October 8, 2026.