Kelly Powell, PhD
Assistant Professor in the Child Study CenterCards
Appointments
Additional Titles
Co-director, Yale Toddler Developmental Disabilities Clinic
Contact Info
Appointments
Additional Titles
Co-director, Yale Toddler Developmental Disabilities Clinic
Contact Info
Appointments
Additional Titles
Co-director, Yale Toddler Developmental Disabilities Clinic
Contact Info
About
Titles
Assistant Professor in the Child Study Center
Co-director, Yale Toddler Developmental Disabilities Clinic
Biography
Kelly K. Powell, Ph.D. is an Assistant Professor at the Child Study Center. She received her undergraduate degree from Brown University majoring in both Psychology as well as Human Development & Educational Studies. She earned her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from American University and completed her pre- and post-doctoral fellowships at the Yale Child Study Center. Dr. Powell specializes in the assessment of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), with a particular focus on children 5 and younger. She is the co-director of the Toddler Developmental Disabilities Program within the CSC. She is also a psychologist in the NICU GRAD program and conducts developmental assessments. Dr. Powell has international experience training clinicians and parents in diagnosis and treatment of ASD. She is actively involved in research projects focused on further understanding phenotypic expression, developmental trajectories, and outcome in ASD including co-occurring conditions. She is also invested in further developing relationships with stakeholders including parents, medical professionals, schools, and community treatment providers.
Appointments
Child Study Center
Assistant ProfessorPrimary
Other Departments & Organizations
- Chawarska Lab
- Child Study Center
- Developmental Disabilities Program
- NICU GRAD Program
- Predoctoral Internship and Postdoctoral Fellowship in Psychology
- Yale Medicine
Education & Training
- PhD
- American University (2012)
- MA
- American University (2009)
Research
Research at a Glance
Yale Co-Authors
Publications Timeline
Katarzyna Chawarska, PhD
Suzanne Macari, PhD
Angelina Vernetti, PhD
Abigail Greene
Corey Horien
Chelsea Morgan, PsyD
Publications
2024
Family history of psychiatric conditions and development of siblings of children with autism
Bellia G, Chang J, Liew Z, Vernetti A, Macari S, Powell K, Chawarska K. Family history of psychiatric conditions and development of siblings of children with autism. Autism Research 2024 PMID: 38896553, DOI: 10.1002/aur.3175.Peer-Reviewed Original ResearchAltmetricConceptsSiblings of childrenNeuropsychiatric disordersFamilies of childrenFamily history of schizophreniaYounger siblings of childrenHistory of psychiatric conditionsHistory of schizophreniaYounger siblingsAssess autism symptomsNonverbal IQAutism symptomsBipolar disorderIntellectual disabilityPsychiatric conditionsSubclinical symptomsAdaptive skillsSocial affectAdaptive functioningAutismFamily historyParent interviewsFamily factorsMultiple regression analysisDevelopmental outcomesDisorders
2022
A generalizable connectome-based marker of in-scan sustained attention in neurodiverse youth
Horien C, Greene A, Shen X, Fortes D, Brennan-Wydra E, Banarjee C, Foster R, Donthireddy V, Butler M, Powell K, Vernetti A, Mandino F, O'Connor D, Lake E, McPartland J, Volkmar F, Chun M, Chawarska K, Rosenberg M, Scheinost D, Constable R. A generalizable connectome-based marker of in-scan sustained attention in neurodiverse youth. Cerebral Cortex 2022, 33: 6320-6334. PMID: 36573438, PMCID: PMC10183743, DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhac506.Peer-Reviewed Original ResearchCitationsAltmetricMeSH Keywords and ConceptsConceptsAttention taskAttentional stateConnectome-based predictive modelingNeurodiverse conditionsSustained attention taskAttention network modelSample of youthNeurotypical participantsSustained attentionBrain correlatesNeurobiological correlatesAttention networkIndividual participantsSeparate samplesYouthParticipantsHead motionTaskCorrelatesAttentionAutismConfoundsNetwork modelGeneralizesHealthcare settingsElevated symptoms of executive dysfunction predict lower adaptive functioning in 3‐year‐olds with autism spectrum disorder
Powell K, Macari S, Brennan‐Wydra E, Feiner H, Butler M, Fortes D, Boxberger A, Torres‐Viso M, Morgan C, Lyons M, Chawarska K. Elevated symptoms of executive dysfunction predict lower adaptive functioning in 3‐year‐olds with autism spectrum disorder. Autism Research 2022, 15: 1336-1347. PMID: 35388596, PMCID: PMC9253075, DOI: 10.1002/aur.2715.Peer-Reviewed Original ResearchCitationsAltmetricMeSH Keywords and ConceptsConceptsAutism spectrum disorderDaily living skillsExecutive functioningEF deficitsAdaptive functioningSpectrum disorderLiving skillsExecutive functioning (EF) deficitsAutism severity scoresLower adaptive functioningCognitive flexibilityAtypical developmentDevelopmental presentationExecutive dysfunctionAdaptive skillsNonverbal functioningVABS-IIElevated symptomsAge threeToddlersLong-term detrimental impactDevelopmental quotientFunctioningChronological ageSymptom severity
2020
Low-motion fMRI data can be obtained in pediatric participants undergoing a 60-minute scan protocol
Horien C, Fontenelle S, Joseph K, Powell N, Nutor C, Fortes D, Butler M, Powell K, Macris D, Lee K, Greene AS, McPartland JC, Volkmar FR, Scheinost D, Chawarska K, Constable RT. Low-motion fMRI data can be obtained in pediatric participants undergoing a 60-minute scan protocol. Scientific Reports 2020, 10: 21855. PMID: 33318557, PMCID: PMC7736342, DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-78885-z.Peer-Reviewed Original ResearchCitationsAltmetricMeSH Keywords and ConceptsConceptsPediatric participantsMRI protocolMagnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scansFunctional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scansShorter MRI protocolsScan protocolResonance imaging scansImaging scansMRI sessionsFMRI connectivity analysisFMRI dataFMRI findingsSignificant confoundScansReplication groupConnectivity analysisAutism spectrum disorderMock scanSpectrum disorderParticipantsHead motionProtocolPreliminary Psychometrics for the Executive Function Challenge Task: A Novel, “Hot” Flexibility, and Planning Task for Youth
Kenworthy L, Freeman A, Ratto A, Dudley K, Powell KK, Pugliese CE, Strang JF, Verbalis A, Anthony LG. Preliminary Psychometrics for the Executive Function Challenge Task: A Novel, “Hot” Flexibility, and Planning Task for Youth. Journal Of The International Neuropsychological Society 2020, 26: 725-732. PMID: 32178755, PMCID: PMC8647841, DOI: 10.1017/s135561772000017x.Peer-Reviewed Original ResearchCitationsAltmetricMeSH Keywords and ConceptsConceptsExecutive functionEF tasksParent-reported executive functionAttention deficit hyperactivity disorderDeficit hyperactivity disorderCommon treatment targetsChallenge taskAdequate internal consistencyTwo-factor structureVisual pattern recognitionMost treatment trialsTD youthEF problemsEcological validityHyperactivity disorderAutistic childrenPreliminary psychometricsSocial interactionValid assessmentAdequate reliabilityInternal consistencyPlanning tasksTaskYouthEducational outcomesContext-Specific Dyadic Attention Vulnerabilities During the First Year in Infants Later Developing Autism Spectrum Disorder
Macari S, Milgramm A, Reed J, Shic F, Powell KK, Macris D, Chawarska K. Context-Specific Dyadic Attention Vulnerabilities During the First Year in Infants Later Developing Autism Spectrum Disorder. Journal Of The American Academy Of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry 2020, 60: 166-175. PMID: 32061926, PMCID: PMC9524139, DOI: 10.1016/j.jaac.2019.12.012.Peer-Reviewed Original ResearchCitationsAltmetricMeSH Keywords and ConceptsConceptsAutism spectrum disorderLow familial riskHigh familial riskTypical developmentSpectrum disorderExaminer's faceInteractive partnersToy playEye-tracking findingsChild-directed speechCandidate behavioral markerEye-tracking studyEffects of contextFamilial riskAtypical attentionProbe taskASD groupAutism symptomsBehavioral markersSubtle impairmentsEye contactLive interactionDevelopmental challengesLow attentionPlay condition
2018
Emotional Expressivity in Toddlers With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Macari S, DiNicola L, Kane-Grade F, Prince E, Vernetti A, Powell K, Fontenelle S, Chawarska K. Emotional Expressivity in Toddlers With Autism Spectrum Disorder. Journal Of The American Academy Of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry 2018, 57: 828-836.e2. PMID: 30392624, PMCID: PMC6844292, DOI: 10.1016/j.jaac.2018.07.872.Peer-Reviewed Original ResearchCitationsAltmetricMeSH Keywords and ConceptsConceptsAutism spectrum disorderAutism Diagnostic Observation Schedule-2Emotional expressivenessEarly Childhood Behavior QuestionnaireAutism severityPositive emotionsSpectrum disorderGreater autism severityNegative emotional expressivenessParent-reported temperamentImportance of emotionsIntensity of fearChildhood Behavior QuestionnaireASD displayASD groupEmotional expressivityAutism symptomsVocal channelNegative emotionalityTD groupTypical developmentCognitive developmentGoal blockageIntense angerIntense fear
2017
Do Parents and Clinicians Agree on Ratings of Autism-Related Behaviors at 12 Months of Age? A Study of Infants at High and Low Risk for ASD
Macari SL, Wu GC, Powell KK, Fontenelle S, Macris DM, Chawarska K. Do Parents and Clinicians Agree on Ratings of Autism-Related Behaviors at 12 Months of Age? A Study of Infants at High and Low Risk for ASD. Journal Of Autism And Developmental Disorders 2017, 48: 1069-1080. PMID: 29181689, PMCID: PMC6884400, DOI: 10.1007/s10803-017-3410-z.Peer-Reviewed Original ResearchCitationsAltmetricMeSH Keywords and Concepts
2016
Brief Report: Remotely Delivered Video Modeling for Improving Oral Hygiene in Children with ASD: A Pilot Study
Popple B, Wall C, Flink L, Powell K, Discepolo K, Keck D, Mademtzi M, Volkmar F, Shic F. Brief Report: Remotely Delivered Video Modeling for Improving Oral Hygiene in Children with ASD: A Pilot Study. Journal Of Autism And Developmental Disorders 2016, 46: 2791-2796. PMID: 27106570, PMCID: PMC4939106, DOI: 10.1007/s10803-016-2795-4.Peer-Reviewed Original ResearchCitationsAltmetricMeSH Keywords and ConceptsConceptsOral hygieneOral hygiene outcomesOral health problemsOral hygiene habitsOral hygiene improvementInternet-based interventionsRandomized control trialControl video conditionHygiene habitsControl trialClinical examinersLarge effect sizesHealth problemsHygiene improvementPilot studyHygiene outcomesIntervention conditionInterventionChildrenEffect sizePreliminary supportHygieneAutismPatientsBaseline
2015
Enhanced Social Attention in Female Infant Siblings at Risk for Autism
Chawarska K, Macari S, Powell K, DiNicola L, Shic F. Enhanced Social Attention in Female Infant Siblings at Risk for Autism. Journal Of The American Academy Of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry 2015, 55: 188-195.e1. PMID: 26903252, PMCID: PMC5812780, DOI: 10.1016/j.jaac.2015.11.016.Peer-Reviewed Original ResearchCitationsAltmetricMeSH Keywords and ConceptsConceptsAutism spectrum disorderSocial orientingRelevant stimuliSocial targetsEye-tracking studySevere social impairmentAutism riskLow-risk controlsComorbid anxiety symptomsSex differencesAtypical attentionInfant siblingsSocial attentionHigh-risk malesEnhanced attentionSocial impairmentSpectrum disorderHigh-risk femalesAnxiety symptomsOrientingSocial experienceNeurobehavioral measuresLow-risk malesAtypical patternsProtective factors
Clinical Trials
Current Trials
Emotional development in infants at risk for ASD
HIC ID2000031163RoleSub InvestigatorPrimary Completion Date01/31/2027Recruiting ParticipantsGenderBothAgeUp to 4 monthsStudy of Brain Function Across the Lifespan
HIC ID2000020891RoleSub InvestigatorPrimary Completion Date07/31/2022Recruiting ParticipantsGenderBothAge18 years - 65 years
Clinical Care
Overview
Kelly Powell, PhD, specializes in pediatric developmental and behavioral medicine, focusing on pervasive developmental disorders and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). She is the co-director of the Yale Toddler Developmental Disabilities Clinic. She provides personalized therapy for individuals with ASD and Asperger syndrome and manages pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome (PANS).
Powell's research explores ASD, executive function and attention, pediatric neuroimaging, parent-clinician agreement, and remote interventions. She studies attention, behavior, and development in children, particularly those with ASD. Her work includes understanding brain connections related to attention, the impact of planning and decision-making difficulties on young children with autism, and early attention challenges in infants later diagnosed with ASD.
Powell is an assistant professor at the Yale Child Study Center.
Clinical Specialties
Fact Sheets
Child Development
Learn More on Yale MedicineDiagnosing Autism
Learn More on Yale MedicineAutism: The Transition to Adulthood
Learn More on Yale MedicinePivotal Response Treatment
Learn More on Yale Medicine
Yale Medicine News
Are You a Patient?
View this doctor's clinical profile on the Yale Medicine website for information about the services we offer and making an appointment.
View Doctor ProfileLinks & Media
News
- July 01, 2024
Yale Child Study Center recognizes 2024 award recipients and retirees
- May 10, 2024
Autism conference at Yale highlights latest research & clinical advances
- December 20, 2023
Introducing the Social and Affective Neuroscience of Autism (SANA) Lab at Yale
- June 30, 2022
Yale Child Study Center Recognizes Long-term Service of Faculty & Staff
Get In Touch
Contacts
Locations
300 George Street
Academic Office
New Haven, CT 06511
Patient Care Locations
Are You a Patient? View this doctor's clinical profile on the Yale Medicine website for information about the services we offer and making an appointment.