The YAI Autism Center is pleased to welcome Michelle Garcia Winner, MA, CCC, as the newest member of our Autism Advisory Council.

Michelle is a speech-language pathologist who specializes in the treatment of individuals with social cognitive deficits, which include diagnoses such as Autism, Asperger syndrome and non-verbal learning disorder. 

Among her many contributions to the field, Michelle coined the term “social thinking” and a number of related treatment strategies.  Social thinking is about considering the thoughts, intentions, and emotions of those around us, and using them to inform our behavior.

Social Thinking strategies help people understand their behaviors and responses, and how they affect others around them. By using these strategies, individuals can learn to navigate their behaviors and adapt to the people and situations around them for more rewarding social outcomes.

Through her work, Michelle aims to help administrators, educators and parents appreciate how social thinking and social skills are an integral part of students' academic and social experiences and are critical for success in adulthood.  She has written and co-authored numerous books published through Think Social Publishing, inc. In 2008, Michelle was honored with a “Congressional Special Recognition Award.” 

Michelle has a private practice in San Jose, California where she works with clients and consults with families and schools. She also travels internationally to present workshops and trainings for psychiatrists, psychologists, counselors, and policymakers.

She recently presented a full-day workshop at the YAI Autism Center’s annual conference on autism, which is designed to provide valuable information and critical resources to families and professionals in the field. 

Learn more about Michelle’s work at www.socialthinking.com and http://www.youtube.com/user/Socialthinking.