ACPA is proud to launch a new Self-Advocacy Webinar Series designed for individuals and families affected by cleft and craniofacial differences. Running from June 2026 through early 2027, this series will provide practical tools, personal insights, and empowering conversations focused on navigating healthcare, education, relationships, transitions to adulthood, and self-advocacy at every stage of life.
Led by individuals with lived experience, these webinars aim to foster confidence, connection, and community. Explore the upcoming webinar topics below and register for free—exact dates, additional details, and registration will be added as they become available.
Tuesday, June 30, 7:00-8:00 PM EDT
Led by presenters with lived experience and grounded in emerging research, this webinar will help teens and young adults understand what to expect when leaving behind pediatric care and provide practical tools to own your appointments, navigate insurance, and advocate for yourself in the medical system.
Presenters:
Paul Bigg, DMD is a general dentist and the director of special care dentistry at A. T. Still University, Missouri School of Dentistry and Oral Health who helps those with craniofacial anomalies and other differences through dental care, research, advocacy and education.
Ethan Richlak is a medical student at the University of Pittsburgh, researcher, and global cleft advocate whose research and advocacy efforts are focused on the intersection of clinical care, psychosocial outcomes, and global health policy.
Thursday, August 13, 1:00-2:00 PM EDT
Learn how to identify stereotypes, understand media portrayals, and use social media to promote accurate representation and positive visibility.
Presenter:
Erica Klauber
Registration coming soon!
Date and Time TBD
Learn how to share your personal journey with clarity and confidence to raise awareness, inspire others, and advocate for change.
Presenter:
Jackson Doane
Wednesday, October 7, 7:00-8:00 PM EDT
Learn how to ask questions, understand treatment options, plan for surgeries, seek second opinions, and actively participate in treatment decisions.
Presenters:
Caitlin Church and Matthew Ford, MS, CCC-SLP
Date and Time TBD
Practical tools to strengthen resilience and self-worth, along with strategies for recognizing, preventing, and responding to bullying and hurtful behavior in schools, social settings, and online environments.
Presenter:
Eric Riklin, PhD, LP
Date and Time TBD
Strategies for caregivers to advocate with their child, including guidance on IEPs/504 plans, school and workplace accommodations, ADA protections, and empowering children to build self-advocacy skills from early childhood through adolescence.
Presenter:
Suzanne Santomieri
Date and Time TBD
Understand how to work with insurance providers, appeal denials, access financial support, and ensure coverage for necessary care.
Presenter:
Kristin Pfeifauf
Date and Time TBD
Tips for navigating social situations, building positive relationships, and connecting with supportive peer and community networks.
Presenter:
Ashley Barbour
