Dena L. Gassner, MSW DENA L. GASSNER, MSW, developed her interest in family systems with diagnostic training at the University Affiliated program at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital while simultaneously becoming a certified early intervention specialist. Upon completing her Master’s Degree at the University of Kentucky, she transitioned to individual/family coaching support in the field of Asperger’s Syndrome and similar processing/developmental learning challenges.
Dena is the 2009 winner of the Jo Andrews Award from Nashville's Mayor's Committee on Disability for outstanding disability advocacy. She has been featured in a PSA (no-myths.org) and an online video for the Dan Marino Foundation (AU-tube). A faculty member for Health-Education Network Dena is completing a one year, national tour speaking about vulnerabilities in Asperger's Syndrome.
Today, she continues her work as an advocate, writer, and national presenter to school, families, and agencies throughout the country. This year she opened a private coaching practice in the Greater Nashville area called the Center for Understanding. January, 2010 the C4U after school program will open providing life skills and social thinking supports to middle and high school students on the spectrum.
With C4U she embodies a commitment to encouraging healthier living for those with Asperger’s Syndrome and other learning differences. Her personal mantra empowers persons to leave shame and inadequacy behind for a life embracing autistic authenticity. Authenticity leads to physical and emotional wholeness through the process to redefine success and while remaining safe on every level.
Ms. Gassner is an experienced presenter on the local, state, and national levels. Her presentations include ASPIE School Training Conference, Albany, New York; Child School, Manhattan, New York; keynote for Autism Society of Georgia; Indiana University Sate Mental Health Conference/ NASW Training; Autism Society of America’s Panel of Spectrum Advisors; West Virginia NASW Chapter event; Autism Asperger’s of New England keynote with Oliver Sacks; and Autism Society of America National Conference. Ms. Gassner has written articles for numerous publications.Her book "Exiting the Shame Train: Finding Authenticity and Living Well with Asperger's Syndrome" is due out this year. She is an advisory board member for the Autism Society of America; an executive board member for GRASP and a collaborator with ASAN.
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