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Autism Unpacked is a refreshingly real podcast that dives into what it really means to be autistic in today’s world. In series 1, we unpacked everything from relationships and parenting to diagnosis, myths, sleep, and so much more. 

And the good news? We're back for more with a brand-new series, launching in September, shining a light on eating and feeding disorders, school avoidance, mental health, and more. 

This isn’t just another autism podcast - it’s a vibrant mix of expert advice, practical tips, and honest, heart-warming stories.

For further information, visit optionsautism.co.uk
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In this bonus clip, we talk about what it's really like taking a child with complex autism on holiday. Hear Karen, mum to Lois who has complex needs, talking about the planning, the pressure and the moments that make it all worth it.

And you can hear more from Karen about their journey as a family, in episode 6. 

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Welcome to our second compilation episode from Series 1 of Autism Unpacked. This time round we’re focusing on what helps and what’s hype. We’ll hear from autism experts with advice, strategies which could benefit us all – and even a bit of myth busting to tackle those common misconceptions.

Amongst our guests are senior clinicians and respected experts from Options Autism, including: Emma Sanderson, Dr Freya Spicer-White and Sarah-Jo Vane, (Senior Admissions Manager). Between them, Emma, Freya and Sarah-Jo give their take on navigating the diagnosis process as well as EHCPs. 

We’ll also be discussing the sometime thorny issue of sleep with consultant clinical psychologist Dr Nicky Greaves, as well as getting to grips with the controversial issue of Demand Avoidance with Freya and clinician, Paula Walker. And if that wasn’t enough, we’ll hear from Francesca Happé, a Professor of Cognitive Neuroscience and renowned expert on autism in girls.

There’s a lot to get through, so sit back, take a breath, and join us as we celebrate the beauty, diversity, and strength of the autism community.

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Welcome to this very special compilation edition of Autism Unpacked, featuring highlights from across Series 1. We are privileged to be able to listen to the voices of those with lived experience of autism – reflections on the impact it has had on them and their families, as well as uplifting insight and advice. 

We’ll hear from TV personality and professional dancer Tom Malone Jr, who was diagnosed in his 20s, from Karen Broomhead, a lecturer in Special Educational Needs and mum of two, including a wonderful little girl who has complex autism; and from two incredible people who support autistic pupils in preparing for their future life beyond school - Kelly Guthery and Oli Masters.

We'll delve into:

• What it's like to live with autism and growing up without a diagnosis
• The importantce of autistic role models 
• The impact of social media
• How a diagnosis can also help others 
• And the myriad of emotions that can come with a diagnosis
• The importance of encourging all children to dream big
• How a passion for something can bring huge benefits
• And about looking to a future shaped around your child's aspirations

For further information, visit optionsautism.co.uk
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Welcome back to part 2 of episode 8, as we continue to unpack the subject of autism in girls.

Here, we rejoin the conversation with our expert guests, Professor Francesca Happé, a professor in congnitive neuroscience, and Dr Freya Spicer-White, a consultant psychologist and chief clinical officer at Options Autism.

Join us as we explore:

• Autism and puberty
• Advocating for your child
• The potential and positive traits that austim can bring
• How to find out more about autism and girls

And if you haven't already, check out part 1 of this episode to learn about masking and why autisitc traits can so often be missed in girls.

For further information, visit optionsautism.co.uk
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In this episode, we explore an often misunderstood subject - autism in girls. Autism can often present very differently in girls, leading to misdiagnosis, late diagnosis or even a lack of diagnosis.

We're joined by two expert voices - Professor Francesca Happé, a professor in congnitive neuroscience, and Dr Freya Spicer-White, a consultant psychologist and chief clinical officer at Options Autism - as we break down what you need to know to help your autistic girls thrive.

In part 1, we delve into:

• Why autistic traits can be missed in girls
• Masking and the impact that it can have
• What signs to look for
• Advocating for your daughter
• Stratgies to support the development of social skills

And don't forget to join us for part 2, as we continue the conversation including how autism can also bring with it enormous potential.

For further information, visit optionsautism.co.uk
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In this episode of Autism Unpacked, we explore sleep and why this can be a challenge for neurodiverse individuals. Rosie is joined by Dr Nicky Greaves, a consultant clinical psychologist, whose career includes time running a sleep clinical as well as extensive experience working with neurodiverse young people.

Hear Nicky and Rosie delve into why sleep can be particularly challenging for autistic individuals, and explore advice and strategies for prioritising sleep, setting the scene for sleep and falling asleep, and just as importantly, staying asleep.

For further information, visit optionsautism.co.uk
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This episode welcomes to the pod Karen Broomhead, a lecturer in special educational needs and a mother of two. Karen’s daughter, Lois, is nine years old and has complex autism. Karen shares the trials, tribulations and celebrations of their journey as a family, and what it really means to be a part of Lois’ world.

For further information, visit optionsautism.co.uk
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This two-part episode welcomes to the pod Kelly Guthery and Oli Masters, both from The Futures Team at Options Autism. This team is dedicated to supporting students across the UK as they prepare to leave school. The team's holistic approach goes beyond just career guidance; they focus on hobbies, independent skills, and personal interests to inspire students in planning their futures. From aeronautical experiences to robotics and sound production, their aim is to help every student find a pathway where they can thrive.

For further information, visit optionsautism.co.uk
or follow us on
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This two-part episode welcomes to the pod Kelly Guthery and Oli Masters, both from The Futures Team at Options Autism. This team is dedicated to supporting students across the UK as they prepare to leave school. The team's holistic approach goes beyond just career guidance; they focus on hobbies, independent skills, and personal interests to inspire students in planning their futures. From aeronautical experiences to robotics and sound production, their aim is to help every student find a pathway where they can thrive.

For further information, visit optionsautism.co.uk
or follow us on
Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin or YouTube