Lauren Libero, PhD

Dr.  Lauren Libero is the Autism Specialist at the California Department of Developmental Services (DDS), where she oversees the Autism Services Branch and programs and services for autistic individuals across the lifespan. Her work leverages data and research related to autism and the lived experiences of the autism community to develop and implement statewide policy in the provision of effective, quality, and equitable services and supports for individuals and their families statewide.  Lauren is also a governor's appointee to the state's Advisory Council on Improving Interactions Between People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and Law Enforcement. Prior to her work at DDS, Lauren was a UC President's Postdoctoral Fellow at the UC Davis MIND Institute. She has also served the disability community for over 20 years through various volunteer and non-profit programs, including leading a social support group for autistic women.