Summary:

In this heartfelt episode, we invite you to join us on a journey of learning, empathy, and growth as we recognize Autism Awareness Month. After our own child received an autism diagnosis last year, we’ve experienced firsthand the challenges and questions that come with navigating this path. With 1 in 36 children—1 in 30 boys—receiving an autism diagnosis by age 8, the need for community education and family support is greater than ever.

We’re honored to welcome Dr. Christopher J. Smith, an experimental psychologist and leader at the Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center (SARRC), right here in Arizona. Dr. Smith oversees diagnostic evaluations and groundbreaking research at SARRC, an organization internationally recognized for its evidence-based practices and innovative approach to autism support. He also continues to serve as a faculty member at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine.

Together, we’ll explore what families can expect after a diagnosis, what support systems are available, and how we can all better understand and uplift our neurodiverse community. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, educator, or simply someone wanting to learn more—this conversation is for you.

Let’s learn and grow together.

Resource Links:

SARRC - Diagnostic Services 

autismcenter.org/Diagnosis

Autism Society of Greater Phoenix 

https://phxautism.org/

“Be wary of offering ‘help,’ and other ways to support families with disabilities” by Jaclyn Greenberg

Be wary of offering ‘help,’ and other ways to support families with disabilities | CNN

Arizona Articles and Press Releases - DDD Services Impacted as of  March 2025

Governor Katie Hobbs Announces Actions to Control Costs and Protect Care at Division of Developmental Disabilities | Office of the Arizona Governor

Republicans block bill to cover budget shortfall threatening Arizona’s disability services

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