LoneStar LEND Training Program

LoneStar LEND logo
Director: Pauline A. Filipek, MD

Mission

LoneStar LEND is a training program designed to develop leaders in the field of autism spectrum disorder and other neurodevelopmental disabilities (ASD/DD) using a 10-month, interdisciplinary training model focused on leadership, cultural competence, and evidence-based practice. The LoneStar LEND mission particularly promotes training that produces future leaders equipped to best serve underrepresented and underserved children with ASD/DDs across Texas.

Educational Opportunities

The LEND offers three types of educational opportunities:

  1. Long-Term Trainee Program
  2. Medium-Term Trainee Program
  3. Short Term Trainee Program

Find more information about each program below.

 

Long-Term Trainee (LTT) Program

Provides leadership training to:

  • Medical residents and fellows
  • Graduate students whose academic focus is within one of the Core Disciplines
  • Professionals who work within one of the Core Disciplines
  • Parents and siblings of individuals with ASD/DDs
  • Self-advocates

Long-Term Trainees (LTTs) complete an average of 20hrs/week of LEND-specific activities. Curriculum includes:

  • Didactic seminars
  • Clinical observations
  • Community field experiences
  • Leadership training
  • Service Learning Project
  • Family mentorship experience
  • Monthly stipend support, paid conference registration and a professional development travel stipend are also provided.

 

Find more information about the LTT Program Requirements HERE.

Applications are open, until April 30th 2024! Rolling admissions policy.

 

 

Medium-Term Trainee (MTT) Program

The MTT Program allows for a less structured, less intensive learning opportunity. MTTs are permitted to design their own learning experience, however, their program must span no longer than 5 months and include 40 – 299 hours of training.

The MTT Program is available to:

  • Students / Residents
  • Professionals
  • Family members
  • Community advocates
  • Self-advocates

The MTT Program includes participation in:

  • Didactic seminars
  • LoneStar LEND Conference
  • Cultural Responsiveness trainings*
  • LEND Leadership Weekend*
  • LEND Book Club*
    *optional

Find more information about the MTT Program Requirements HERE.

A completed application is required for consideration. Applications remain open and are accepted throughout the year on a rolling basis.

 

Short-Term Trainee (STT) Program

The STT Program is the least structured way for individuals to participate in LEND educational opportunities; it includes weekly seminars and the annual LEND Conference. Anyone in the community, from high school students to parents to health care professionals may attend the didactic seminars and/or the LoneStar LEND Conference. STTs complete up to 40 hours of training. No application required- to attend LEND seminars, simply contact the Program Coordinator to RSVP at least 48hrs prior to the seminar date. The LEND Conference can be registered for by following the link above.

 

Program Coordinator Contact Information:
Annie Rangel
(713) 500-3637
Annie.A.Rangel@uth.tmc.edu