According to the CDC in March, approximately 1 in 54 children have been identified with Autism Spectrum Disorder. With autism being such a prevalent diagnosis in our society, it is important for neurotypical people (those not diagnosed with a neurological disorder) to learn about autism and the autistic community. As our guest on the episode, Rachel Dorsey, says, “Autism cannot be cured. Autism is not bad, nor is it good—it just is. It is a different neurology and a different way of being human.”  

In this episode, Molly, Tricia, and Rachel discuss Rachel’s personal experience being autistic, ways neurotypical people can communicate with those with autism, and the mental health complications caused when autistic people “mask.”

Rachel Dorsey, MS, CCC-SLP is a late-diagnosed autistic speech-language pathologist who has worked in early intervention, preschool, and clinic-based settings. She is currently working in a private practice located in the greater Boston area and runs a consultancy, Rachel Dorsey: Autistic SLP, aimed at educating professionals about autism-friendly practices and coaching parents of autistic children. Her specialized interests include autism research, education, and advocacy, makeup styles and techniques, Sailor Moon, and cats. 

Find Rachel:

Website:  www.dorseyslp.com

IG: @rdorseyslp 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dorseyslp.

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*note: we aim to keep our episodes unscripted and (largely) unedited to provide an example of communication in its natural form.*

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