TODS FEATURED SPEAKER
Autism and Neurodiversity in Dentistry
Dr. Karen Bopp and Ms. Kayla Ragosin-Miller, RDH
Session Date: Thursday October 22, 2026
Session Time: 6:00-9:00pm
Presenter Name: Dr. Karen Bopp and Ms. Kayla Ragosin-Miller, RDH
Outline:
Autism and Neurodiversity in Dentistry
This presentation will review strategies that can be implemented right away to better support and treat autistic and neurodivergent individuals of all ages in the dental setting. You will hear from autistic individuals about their dental experiences and learn evidence-based strategies that can be used before, during and after the appointment to create successful dental visits for all. The on-line, self-paced program “Autism & Neurodiversity in Dentistry” developed by CIRCA at UBC will be reviewed and you will learn where to access resources to support your on-going development.
Learning Objectives
- Learn about the key features of autism and neurodiversity and address common myths and stereotypes
- Learn how to create a sensory adapted dental environment
- Learn how to share positive pre-visit imagery with your clients
- Learn How to Use Visual Supports and the Key Components of Systematic Desensitization
- Learn how to provide an individualized at-home oral hygiene plan based on a family-centered approach
About The Speakers
Dr. Karen Bopp has dedicated 30 years to supporting and working in partnership with Autistic and Neurodivergent individuals and their families. She holds a Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology and a PhD in Special Education from UBC, where she also completed a postdoctoral fellowship in Medicine and Education.
Karen’s career spans frontline clinical work, policy leadership, and advocacy. At the BC Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD), she led autism policy development, cross-ministry initiatives, and service and systemic improvements. She later spearheaded professional development programs at UBC’s CIRCA for primary care providers, dental professionals, employers, and early childcare workers to enhance accessibility and inclusion for Neurodivergent individuals.
Most recently, as Executive Advisor for BC’s Representative for Children and Youth, Karen engaged with self-advocates, families, and service providers to inform policy and system change. She is now honored to serve as Interim CEO of Canada’s National Autism Network, championing the voices and needs of the Autistic community nationwide.
Kayla Ragosin-Miller is a hygiene graduate from the University of Manitoba. She works in private practice, is a part-time instructor and a lecturer on Special Needs Dentistry. However, her true passion and love is working at BC Children’s Hospital. There she developed and created the Special Smiles Dental Intervention Program for children with Autism and Related Disorders. This has landed her the nickname “The Autism Lady of Dentistry”. Currently she’s involved in Autism research and consults privately with her Special Smiles Dental Intervention program. She has been awarded for her dedication by CDHA with the” Dental Hygienist Hero Award “and by BCDHA with” Dental Hygienist Making a Difference Award” for her work with this clientele. Kayla partnered with CIRCA at UBC to collaborate and develop a professional development module for professionals to learn to support autistic and neurodivergent clients in the dental office.
