Beyond Awareness: Understanding Neurodivergent Disabilities in Community Corrections

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Nathan holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in Sociology from Northern Arizona University. With 12 years of experience in court and probation supervision, he has gained extensive expertise across a range of specialized caseloads, including Drug Court, Intensive Probation Supervision (IPS), and Court Liaison. Promoted to Probation Officer Supervisor in 2019, Nathan has since supervised a prison re-entry unit, focusing on rehabilitation and successful reintegration into society. In addition, he extended his professional experiences by having involved himself in initiatives that enhance continuous improvement and peer support within his department. His firsthand experience as a father of two, including a child diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder II and is non-speaking, equips him with a unique and invaluable perspective on the challenges and specific needs of individuals with autism within the justice system. His personal experience, combined with his professional background, fuels his passion for raising awareness about autism and advocating for best practices in working with individuals on the autism spectrum within community corrections settings.

Anitta Hill is a Licensed Professional Counselor with the Judicial Branch of Maricopa County. She has been a Recovery Court Counselor for the Judicial Branch of Maricopa County since 2019. In her role, she welcomes new, and sometimes returning, participants to Recovery Court by fostering a supportive and therapeutic introduction to Recovery Court. Prior to her time with the Judicial Branch, she worked in Correctional Health as a Mental Health Associate. She has over 15 years of experience in the correction/probation mental health field.

Amy holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and a Paralegal Certificate. She began her career in New Jersey as a paralegal specializing in trusts, estates, guardianship, and conservatorships. In 2004, she moved to Arizona, where she worked as an investigator for the Probate Court, assessing individuals for guardianship and conservatorship. In 2009, Amy’s son was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder II at age eight. Navigating the late diagnosis, she faced challenges securing services and educational support, providing her with firsthand insight into the complexities of autism care. Amy is currently a probation officer supervising a Seriously Mentally Ill (SMI) caseload, where she works with many people of whom have co-occurring autism or other developmental disabilities. Her experience as an investigator and probation officer, combined with her personal journey raising a child with autism, has given her a unique perspective on the needs of individuals on the spectrum. With a career focused on understanding and addressing the needs of diverse populations, Amy is passionate about raising awareness of autism in the community corrections field and advocating for better support and communication for individuals with developmental disabilities.