Georgia ECHO Autism: Primary Care Early Diagnosis Training Model
Supernova Parenting is proud to support Georgia’s ECHO Autism: Primary Care Early Diagnosis Training Model (ECHO Autism STAT), a groundbreaking program that empowers pediatricians and other primary care providers to diagnose autism early—right in their own clinics. By connecting local clinicians with autism experts through virtual case-based learning and ongoing mentorship, this program dramatically improves access for families across Georgia, especially in rural and underserved communities.
Why It Matters:
Traditionally, families wait months—or even years—for an autism diagnosis. ECHO Autism STAT changes that. Primary care providers trained in this model are able to diagnose young children in as little as 39 days from first concern, with a median age of diagnosis at just 34.5 months—well ahead of the national average. Evaluations show that over 90% of participants report increased confidence and knowledge, and their diagnostic accuracy (82–95% agreement with specialists) means families can trust the results. Nearly all participants say they’ll use these new skills in practice, including the Screening Tool for Autism in Toddlers and Young Children (STAT).
How It Works:
Who Can Register?
Pediatricians, Family Physicians, Physician Assistants, and Nurse Practitioners working in primary care settings in Georgia are welcome to join. Registration for the 2026 cohort is now open.
Contact
For questions, contact Coordinator Alexa Gonzalez Laca at alexa.gonzalez.laca@emory.edu.
About Project ECHO®
Project ECHO® (Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes) is a global movement to democratize medical knowledge and improve care for underserved populations. Founded at the University of New Mexico, Project ECHO links specialists with community providers through virtual clinics, fostering learning, mentorship, and improved patient outcomes worldwide.
Meet the Georgia ECHO Autism Team
Jennifer Zubler, MD: Pediatrician
Carley Niehaus, MD: Child Psychiatrist/ Pediatrician
Jocelyn Kuhn, PhD: Psychologist
Allison Schwartz, PhD:Psychologist
Chris Booth, LMSW: Social Worker
Moira Pileggi, MS, CCC-SLP: Speech Language Pathologist
Natasha Nelson: CPDE, Self & Family Advocate
Register and learn more: https://som.qualtrics.emory.edu/jfe/form/SV_9YmffnH0jf6CFsa
Are you a parent, caregiver, or neurodivergent individual hoping to handle crisis situations with more confidence and calm? Join us for a free, five-week hybrid workshop designed specifically for families and individuals—not professionals—who want practical tools to respond to distress, advocate for themselves and their loved ones, and build stronger, safer communities.
What You’ll Learn:
This trauma-informed, community-driven training will give you hands-on de-escalation techniques, real-world practice scenarios, and a personalized Health Crisis Passport. You’ll gain skills to stay calm in tough moments, support your loved ones, and collaborate with allies and law enforcement in ways that foster trust, empathy, and safety.
Meet Your Facilitator:
This workshop features Natasha Nelson—known to many as Supernova Momma—the founder of supernovaparenting.org. Natasha is a nationally recognized advocate, educator, and parent, passionate about equipping families with the tools and support they need to thrive. She’ll guide you through building your own Health Crisis Passport and share insights from her lived experience supporting neurodivergent families.
Who Should Attend?
Format & Details:
What’s Included:
Session Highlights:
Registration closes February 5, 2026.
Reserve your spot now: https://tinyurl.com/Crisis2COA
Sponsored by:
The Color of Autism Foundation
Questions? Contact: info@thecolorofautism.org
In this webinar, which will take place on February 25th at 12:00 PM Eastern time, the speaker will present a call to action for researchers, families, and clinicians. She will discuss why disparities exist in Black communities and what needs to change to turn awareness into action.
Meet Your Facilitator:
This workshop features Natasha Nelson—known to many as Supernova Momma—the founder of supernovaparenting.org. Natasha is a nationally recognized advocate, educator, and parent, passionate about equipping families with the tools and support they need to thrive. She’ll guide you through building your own Health Crisis Passport and share insights from her lived experience supporting neurodivergent families.
Register, as always, this webinar will be recorded and shared across SPARK’s platforms & website after it concludes live!
Reserve your spot now: https://sparkforautism.org/discover_article/webinar-awareness-to-action/
Sponsored by:
SPARK for Autism Foundation
Join Girl Scout Troop 24000 for an important, guided educational experience designed to support girls and their parents in having healthy, age-appropriate conversations about personal development, self-care, and safety. This event features trusted community professionals dedicated to empowering girls to make confident, informed choices.
Natasha Nelson, founder of Supernova Parenting and known to many as Supernova Momm, will lead a special session for parents and guardians. Natasha will share practical strategies for Positive Discipline and effective communication, giving adults the tools they need to keep these important conversations going at home.
The program is tailored for girls ages 9-17, covering topics that evolve with their age—from puberty, menstrual health, and body awareness for younger girls, to sexual health, consent, and media responsibility for teens. Parents and guardians will leave with valuable insight and confidence to support their children through every stage.
Additional focus areas include mental well-being, healthy relationships and boundaries, breast health awareness, and personal safety and self-defense basics.
Important: Parent or guardian attendance is required. This is not a drop-off event.
Families will leave with shared language and practical tools, boosting confidence to continue respectful, open dialogue beyond the event.
Details:
Register or donate by scanning the QR code, going to https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/loving-me-empowering-girls-to-make-healthy-decisions–2026 or emailing GSTroop24000@gmail.com.
Join Autism Branches for the 5th Annual Autism Sensory Festival on April 4, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 8095 Wilkerson Mill Rd in Palmetto, GA. This free, family-friendly event is all about celebrating autism awareness in South Fulton with hands-on activities, engaging resources, and a welcoming community.
This year, we’re thrilled to announce that Natasha Nelson—Supernova Momma and founder of Supernova Parenting—will be facilitating the seminars for caregivers. Natasha’s experience and energy promise to make these sessions both practical and empowering for anyone supporting someone with autism.
The festival features clinical vendors, STEM and robotics activities, interactive tables, giveaways, horse rides, and more. It’s a chance for families, caregivers, and kids to explore, learn, and connect in a supportive environment.
Registration is required to attend—just scan the QR code on the flyer or sign up at https://bit.ly/48TIlwY.
Bring your questions, your curiosity, and your family. We can’t wait to see you there!
We’re thrilled to announce that the 2026 Positive Discipline Coral Springs Conference will open with a keynote by Natasha Nelson—better known as Supernova Momma and the founder of Supernova Parenting. Natasha’s session, “Check Yourself Before You Wreck Yourself,” will set the tone for a full day of learning, honesty, and inspiration.
Conference Details:
When: June 26, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 5:15 PM
Where: Fort Lauderdale Marriott Coral Springs Hotel & Convention Center
11775 Heron Bay Boulevard, Coral Springs, Florida, 33076
This in-person event features dynamic presentations and hands-on sessions to equip you with practical Positive Discipline strategies you can use at home, in the classroom, or in your professional practice. Whether you’re a teacher, counselor, consultant, or parent, you’ll leave with fresh insights and meaningful connections.
CONFERENCE SESSIONS
CE Credits Offered
The entire program is offered in English. Don’t miss this chance to connect, learn, and be inspired by leaders like Natasha Nelson and your Positive Discipline community from around the world. Register
https://www.positivediscipline.org/event-6386337/Registration
