All Autism Talk

Dr. Becky Thompson, Director of Clinical Services for the Wisconsin Early Autism Project (WEAP), and Reux Lennon, Non-binary member of both the LGBT and Autism community and Lead technician with WEAP join us to share their work on the Person-Centered ABA team and the Neurodivergent Advisory Committee. Dr. Thompson leads LEARN's Person-Centered ABA team, which is a group of clinical leaders within LEARN who are dedicated to compassionate and individualized ABA services. Reux shares how their work as one of the original members of the Neurodivergent Advisory Committee is creating change and including neurodivergent voices and perspectives. For more information visit: https://learnbehavioral.com/culture/neurodiversity All Autism Talk (https://www.allautismtalk.com/) is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral (https://learnbehavioral.com).

Kerry Hoops the current President of the Autism Society of Greater Wisconsin and the clinical director for Wisconsin Early Autism Project’s Green Bay region joins us to share about a unique clinic event and what can be learned. Kerry shares details of sensory-friendly covid vaccine events that utilized assent-based practice to create a comfortable experience for children. As Kerry put it, “When it was time for the shot, that was determined by the child. We were very open and honest with the child and let them know it would only happen when they said it was ok.” All Autism Talk (https://www.allautismtalk.com/) is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral (https://learnbehavioral.com).

Dr. Ellie Kazemi is the Chief Science Officer at Behavioral Health Center of Excellence (BHCOE), an accrediting organization focused on improving the quality of behavior analytic services. She is also a professor at CSUN, where she founded the M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) program. Dr. Kazemi joins us to share about the accreditation process and the importance of assessments and measuring outcomes in the field of ABA. As Dr. Kazemi discusses the value of connecting the perspectives of the families and the clients, and shares, “To measure outcomes you should see progress from different perspectives.” All Autism Talk (https://www.allautismtalk.com/) is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral (https://learnbehavioral.com).

Dr. Amber Valentino, Chief Clinical Officer for Trumpet Behavioral Health where she leads all research and training activities, joins us to discuss the importance of prioritizing research. We delve into the issue of outdated research for those receiving services and the benefits of practitioners publishing needed research. As she shared, “What you want to happen is for a practitioner to pick up an article and say “I can do that. That makes sense.” or “I could modify that in a particular way and apply it to my population.” That’s really how our science will inform our practice.” Dr. Valentino also breaks down ways that practitioners can get involved with research with specific guidance from her recent book, Applied Behavior Analysis Research Made Easy: A Handbook for Practitioners Conducting Research Post-Certification. For More Information: Applied Behavior Analysis Research Made Easy: A Handbook Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World

Motivational Speaker and Poet Russell Lehmann joins us for a third time to explore autism through the lens of culture. Having spent most of his life in isolation, Russell has found his voice and independence in recent years. His passion for erasing stigma and stereotypes about autism is shared through his moving, spoken-word poetry. In this discussion, Russell shares the challenges of communicating his needs and preferences and making meaningful connections. Russell offers insights into how those outside the experience of autism can help bridge the gap between cultures. He shares, “I think it’s ironic that autism is labeled a communication disorder. I understand why but I find myself thinking - Is it me, or is it you guys?” He adds this advice, “Be upfront. Be sincere. Be open-minded, and if you have questions about what to say or do, ask.”

Motivational Speaker and Poet Russell Lehmann joins us for a second time to share his perspectives on the words we use when discussing autism. Having spent most of his life in isolation, Russell has found his voice and independence in recent years. His passion for erasing stigma and stereotypes about autism is shared through his moving, spoken-word poetry. In this discussion Russell shares, "If you don't know, ask. When talking to someone and you don't know how to refer to them, ask them. Preface that you are learning. Be honest and respectful." All Autism Talk (https://www.allautismtalk.com/) is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral (https://learnbehavioral.com).

Motivational Speaker and Poet Russell Lehmann joins us to share his perspectives on autism and the human condition. Having spent most of his life in isolation, Russell has found his voice and independence in recent years. His passion for erasing stigma and stereotypes about autism is shared through his moving, spoken-word poetry. As Russell shares, "I like to say you hold up a mirror to anybody, and that's what autism looks like. I don't expect anyone to be able to tell that I have autism just by looking at me. But hopefully, someday they won't be as shocked to find out." All Autism Talk (https://www.allautismtalk.com/) is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral (https://learnbehavioral.com).

Sara Litvak, Founder & CEO of Behavioral Health Center of Excellence, the only ABA-specific accrediting body joins us to discuss the different ways quality is measured in the accreditation process. This discussion delves into the importance of not only clinical standards but the needs of clients and their families. As Sara shares, "We are here as a support for parents who are receiving ABA. We aim to ensure their needs are protected and that all patients get excellent care." For More Information: BHCOE Website BHCOE Resources Facebook Instagram Twitter All Autism Talk (allautismtalk.com) is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral (https://learnbehavioral.com).

Mo Buti, an advocate and instructional expert for people with autism joins us to take a deep dive into the IEP process. She shares details about all the people that make up the team and how parents can best prepare and advocate for their child. As Mo shared, "It's so important that you communicate well and build relationships with your team. Even if you disagree, it makes the process so much more successful." For More Information: You can also email Mo Buti at mobuti@hotmail.com Interested in ABA services for your child? Contact Us: https://lrnbvr.com/contact All Autism Talk (allautismtalk.com) is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral learnbehavioral.com

Pamela Feliciano, Scientific Director of SPARK (Simons Powering Autism Research) the world’s largest autism research study. Dr. Feliciano joins us to share her thoughts on the recent change to autism statistics from the CDC, the value of participating in research, and the information that can be accessed (or declined) for those who do. As she shared, “SPARK’s ultimate goal is to power research to help people with autism live their fullest lives.” For More Information: Interested in ABA services for your child? Contact Us: https://lrnbvr.com/contact All Autism Talk (allautismtalk.com) is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral learnbehavioral.com

Professor Emeritus at the University of Oregon and President of the Choose Kindness Foundation, Doug Carnine joins us to discuss his work with the Choose Kindness Foundation that works with schools, businesses, prisons, and social service agencies across the US to promote mindful kindness. For More Information: Dr.Carnine’s website https://feedkindness.com/ Teen mindfulness program https://choosekindnessfoundation.info/the-mindful-kindness-program/ Choose kindness foundation https://choosekindnessfoundation.info/ Interested in ABA services for your child? Contact Us: https://lrnbvr.com/contact Interested in a career in the ABA field? Apply Now: https://lrnbvr.com/apply-now All Autism Talk (allautismtalk.com) is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral (learnbehavioral.com).

Dr. Tom Welch an expert in work with neurodiverse young people and families joins us to talk about the important work of preparing adolescents for adulthood. Dr. Welch shares key skills parents can help foster while also setting appropriate goals for their child's future. As he shared, "You're working toward a goal where you are in influencer but not in control. It's messy but It's what we all want...greater independence." For more information: Sparkforautism.org Interested in ABA services for your child? Contact Us: https://lrnbvr.com/contact Interested in a career in the ABA field? Apply Now: https://lrnbvr.com/apply-now All Autism Talk (allautismtalk.com) is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral (learnbehavioral.com).

The September 26th was created to honor the lives of a family that was tragically lost in a home fire. By providing safety awareness and preparedness resources for families the mission of this initiative is to review their safety plans every year on September 26th and use their checklists to be prepared. Kelly also commented on the importance of caregivers to support safety preparedness and awareness. As she said, “If a child can’t get out of the house in the event of a fire, were the other goals addressed important?” For More Information: Visit their website: https://www.september26.org/ Download the Fire safety check-list: https://buff.ly/3zQirxQ Download the Natural disaster checklist: https://buff.ly/3A0C9qN Download the Wondering prevention checklist: https://buff.ly/3nfTzuc Download American Red Cross Emergency apps here: https://buff.ly/3raIwUa All Autism Talk (allautismtalk.com) is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral (learnbehavioral.com).

All Autism Talk hosts Kathrine Johnson and Richie Ploesch, sit down to discuss strategies and tips to support a happy, safe, and fun holiday experience for children with autism. As Katherine shared, "When kids know what to expect, it can really help them regulate... and leaving space to let them have a choice and downtime can really help". For more helpful family tips all year round visit: https://www.learnbehavioral.com/parentresources https://www.facebook.com/learnbehavioral https://www.youtube.com/c/Autismtherapies Interested in ABA services for your child? Contact Us: https://lrnbvr.com/contact Interested in a career in the ABA field? Apply Now: https://lrnbvr.com/apply-now All Autism Talk (allautismtalk.com) is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral (learnbehavioral.com).

Heather Tarczan, Executive Director of Urban Autism Solutions joins us to talk about how their program is working to build opportunity and community for young adults in Chicago. Every year, thousands of teens with autism age out of high school. For the majority of these young adults, this is the end of their autism-based services and support. Urban Autism Solutions provides a multitude of social and vocational opportunities for individuals through innovative, community-based programs including a Transition Academy and 1.2-acre Growing Solutions Farm. For more information: https://www.urbanautismsolutions.com/ https://www.facebook.com/UrbanAutismSolutions/ https://www.instagram.com/urbanautismsolutions/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/urban-autism-solutions/ Interested in ABA services for your child? Contact Us: https://lrnbvr.com/contact Interested in a career in the ABA field? Apply Now: https://lrnbvr.com/apply-now All Autism Talk (allautismtalk.com) is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral (learnbehavioral.com).

Roy Richard Grinker is a Professor of Anthropology and International Affairs at George Washington University and author. He joins us to share insights from his latest book, Nobody’s Normal: How Culture Created the Stigma of Mental Illness. In this discussion, we explore how various stigmas around diagnosis are formed - and can be dismantled. As Richard shares, ”Look at the history of autism, when mothers were blamed and autism was only looked at in negative terms... We don’t end up in a very good situation. I’m trying to point this stuff out so people can realize we do have the power to change.” For More Information: Twitter: https://twitter.com/roygrinker https://anthropology.columbian.gwu.edu/roy-richard-grinker https://lrnbvr.com/contact All Autism Talk (allautismtalk.com) is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral learnbehavioral.com

Kari Luther Rosbeck, President & CEO, TSC Alliance, and Steven L. Roberds, PhD, Chief Scientific Officer, TSC Alliance join us for a discussion about Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSCA) a rare genetic disorder. This is an incredibly educational conversation on how this disease is identified and treated. About 50% of those diagnosed with TSC, will also have a diagnosis of autism. Even if your child is not at risk for TSC, the thoughtful approach to treatment and resources can be valuable for all parents. As Kari shared, “When people are ready, they need to know; what are the right questions to ask, what about genetic testing, what about medication, and how does that whole system work?” Learn more about TSC Alliance by visiting tscalliance.org Interested in ABA therapy for your child? Contact us https://lrnbvr.com/contact All Autism Talk (allautismtalk.com) is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral (learnbehavioral.com)

Dr. Temple Grandin returns to the podcast to discuss her latest book, Navigating Autism, which is a collaboration with psychologist Debra Moore, who has done extensive work with children, teens, and adults on the autism spectrum. This episode highlights Dr. Grandin’s powerful personal insights and wisdom with practical support and help from Dr. Moore. In this lively conversation, Drs. Grandin and Moore delve into a number of topics, from how to teach your child basic skills to what you can do to identify and stretch your child’s strengths and interests. The authors also share their belief that many educators, parents, and caregivers underestimate their kids, and they offer advice on what parents can do to help their child reach their highest potential. Interested in ABA services for your child? Contact Us: https://lrnbvr.com/contact Interested in a career in the ABA field? Apply Now: https://lrnbvr.com/apply-now All Autism Talk (allautismtalk.com) is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral (learnbehavioral.com).

Corina Jimenez-Gomez, faculty at Auburn University, and Lauren Beaulieu a behavior analyst for 20 years join us to discuss the importance of culturally responsive services in ABA. Along with their extensive work educating others in this area, they each bring their personal experiences to this important conversation. Corina is a mother and Venezuelan native now living in Alabama. Lauren also shares insights she has gained from her marriage to an Italian immigrant. There is so much rich information about how professionals can take responsibility and action to better serve families. One bit of advice offered to those just beginning their careers was, “Do a self-assessment and then get the training and focus on those soft skills that we tend to ignore in masters programs. Focus on relationship building. You may have to step outside your program to get that.” Training: https://institute.centralreach.com/pages/cultural-competency-in-applied-behavior-analysis Interested in ABA Services for you child? Contact Us: https://lrnbvr.com/contact Interested in a Career in the ABA Field? Apply Now: https://lrnbvr.com/apply-now All Autism Talk (allautismtalk.com) is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral (learnbehavioral.com).

Jennifer Cook was diagnosed on the autism spectrum at the age of 35 and is raising three children on the spectrum. She is the author of seven bestselling, award-winning books. This lively conversation had our host, Katherine Johnson laughing and crying. Jennifer provides perspective on why diagnosis has been widely missed in girls and women and promotes her philosophy of helping others, “Move from feeling like a mistake to feeling like a miracle”. For More Information: https://www.jenniferotooleauthor.com/ https://www.sanctuary-magazine.com/autism-in-heels.html https://www.nowyoubelong.com/welcome All Autism Talk (allautismtalk.com) is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral (learnbehavioral.com).