Michael Alessandri

Michael Alessandri is a Clinical Professor of Psychology at the University of Miami's College of Arts and Sciences, serving as Executive Director of the UM Center for Autism & Related Disabilities and Assistant Chair for Community Outreach and Engagement. His work focuses on autism spectrum disorders, neurodevelopmental conditions, and clinical interventions. Key areas include bilingualism's impact on executive function in autistic children, pandemic-related mental health challenges, and genetic research in autism. He leads large-scale initiatives like the SPARK Cohort study, emphasizing evidence-based practices and family support systems.

Research interests span behavioral assessment tools, transition services for autistic adults, and psychosocial impacts of global crises on neurodiverse populations. He collaborates with interdisciplinary teams to advance diagnostic methods and policy advocacy. His publications address topics such as self-injurious behavior prevalence, coping mechanisms during crises, and neuroimaging correlates of autism symptoms.

Alessandri oversees the UM Center for Autism & Related Disabilities, providing clinical services and community outreach programs. His collaborations include work with medical schools, advocacy organizations, and international research networks. Professional activities include grant-funded studies on early intervention efficacy, genetic counseling strategies, and resilience-building for families of children with special needs.