Healthy Relationships for Teens & Young Adults with Autism

Monday, February 2
6:30 pm – 7:30 pm

Navigating friendships, dating, and relationships can be especially challenging for teens and young adults with Autism, due to differences in communication, social cues, and understanding unspoken rules. Research shows that many individuals with Autism report difficulties forming or maintaining friendships and romantic relationships (Jenkins et al., 2025, Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders).

Join The COMPASS Prevention Team and Autism Society of Greater Akron for a free, interactive workshop for teens and young adults with Autism and the caregivers who support them. Attending together helps both youth and caregivers build shared skills, confidence, and strategies for safe, healthy, and respectful relationships.

Some topics may be sensitive. If you feel uncomfortable at any point, you are welcome to step away or exit the webinar. Your well-being comes first.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Safe & Healthy Relationships

  • Understanding healthy versus unhealthy relationships
  • Navigating in-person and online relationship dynamics
  • Recognizing positive (green) flags and warning (red) flags

Boundaries & Consent

  • What boundaries are and why they matter
  • How to set and maintain healthy boundaries
  • Healthy boundaries vs. unhealthy demands
  • Understanding consent — what it is and what it isn’t
  • Practicing digital consent and online safety

Bystander Intervention

  • What it means to be a supportive bystander
  • The 5Ds: Distract, Direct, Delay, Delegate, Document
  • Common barriers to intervening and how to overcome them

WHO SHOULD ATTEND

  • Teens and young adults on with Autism seeking guidance for safe and respectful relationships
  • Caregivers, parents, or support people attending alongside the youth
  • Educators, support professionals, and community members

DO I HAVE TO REGISTER?

Registration is required to receive the virtual meeting link.

QUESTIONS

If you have questions or need additional assistance, contact Theresa Maier, ASGA Support Specialist via email here or by phone at 330-940-1441 ext 1.

Meet the Speaker

Kayla Stover, Public Health and Prevention Supervisor 

Kayla Stover serves as the Public Health and Prevention Supervisor at COMPASS (Sexual Assault, Education, Prevention and Support). With nearly three years of experience advocating for survivors of sexual violence, Kayla brings a strong background in community mental health and a passion for creating safer, healthier communities.

Webinar Made Possible By:

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