Continuing Education Programs

These quarterly educational programs are created by faith community nurses utilizing guest topic experts to help us examine issues relevant to faith community nursing. These programs are held virtually via Zoom.

All programs begin at 9:15 AM (Central Standard Time) and end 1:00 PM (Central Standard Time).

Neurodiversity and Autism: What FCNs Need to Know

Thursday, October 15, 2026

This symposium focuses on the importance of health care providers understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), neurodiversity and their impact on individuals and families. You’ll learn how faith communities can offer support and whole-person care.

This symposium is guided by the FCN Scope and Standards: Standard 8: Advocacy: Champions the voice of the health care consumer; Standard 9: Respectful and Equitable Practice

Learning Outcomes:

As a result of attending this symposium, participants will be able to:

1. Define neurodiversity and the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

2. Identify diagnostic criteria and core features of neurodiversity and ASD

3. Describe the spectrum of ASD, individual differences and the relationships between ASD and other common co-occurring conditions (ADHD, anxiety, depression)

4. Identify the Impact of ASD on different aspects of life.

5. Discuss how faith communities and FCNs can support individuals and families impacted by ASD and neurodiversity.

CE Certificates: This session is approved for three (3) Continuing Education Hours for RNs as required by the Minnesota Board of Nursing.  Other health professionals & RNs from outside of Minnesota are responsible for determining if this approval meets their licensure requirements. Our Continuing Education Symposiums are not ANCC certified unless otherwise stated.