This 20-minute simulated encounter gives learners the opportunity to practice delivering an autism diagnosis to a standardized patient portraying the caregiver of a young child. Immediately before the simulation, you will review a clinical case including developmental history, completed screening and assessment measures (M-CHAT-R/F responses and ASD-PEDS scoring), and a brief video representing behaviors observed during the evaluation.
This simulation is designed to help you apply strategies introduced in the online module “How to Navigate Providing and Discussing an Autism Diagnosis” (linked in the previous section). During the session, you will be expected to summarize your observations, communicate the diagnosis clearly, and offer thoughtful counseling around next steps, intervention, and the family’s questions and concerns. You will be assessed on both the accuracy and completeness of your counseling, as well as your interpersonal and communication skills.
Following the session, preceptor(s) will provide approximately 10 minutes of individualized feedback focused on both clinical content and your delivery approach. The simulation is intended to support skill development in navigating emotionally sensitive conversations with clarity, empathy, and confidence.
This learning activity is currently reserved for upper-level pediatric residents at VUMC and is completed during the Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics rotation. However, content and materials may be shared upon request or posted to this site in the future to support a broader range of learners and training programs.
Instructions for Residents:
If you are scheduled for “Autism CELA” as part of your DBP rotation, please review the online module How to Navigate Providing and Discussing an Autism Diagnosis prior to your scheduled session. Completion of both the module content and the embedded pre-/post-surveys is required in advance. You will receive an email confirming your assigned date and time. Please arrive promptly and be prepared to review the clinical case materials prior to your 20-minute simulated counseling session. After the session, you will complete a brief survey and receive feedback from the preceptor(s) and standardized patient. If you have any questions, please contact Dr. Laleh Bahrami at laleh.bahrami@vumc.org and/or your assigned preceptor (if known).
Directions to CELA (Center for Experiential Learning and Assessment):
Enter the Light Hall North lobby and take the elevator to the 3rd floor. Upon exiting, turn right and follow the hallway with a slight incline. Once down the hall, you may either take the stairs to the left or the second elevator to the right to reach the 4thfloor. Check in at the desk upon arrival.