In episode five of Infinite Birdges, Addison Kurtin speaks with behavioral pediatrician and founder of the autism early intervention program, The PLAY Project, Dr. Richard Solomon. This episode starts off by exploring what it's like working with parents and caregivers throughout an autism diagnosis. Then, Dr. Rick goes in-depth on the importance of ongoing autism research.

Together, we discuss:

- The four most common parent reactions to an autism diagnosis

- How The PLAY Project helps parents move from grief to empowerment 

- The importance of incorporating joy, fun, and play into helping children with autism 

- How early intervention can help parents and caregivers connect with their autistic children 

- The research that has been done on Parent Implemented Models 

- Harmful myths about autism, and what really causes it to develop

- Advice for parents who are trying to choose which type of intervention would be best for their autistic child

This episode is perfect for parents and caregivers, psychologists, researchers, and anyone who wants to learn more about early intervention and autism research!

Connect with our guest:

- Visit playproject.org to learn more about the early intervention work that Dr. Richard Solomon does.

Support theasdproject: 

- Visit theasdproject.org and create a free account to access resources in our digital library, from guidebooks to articles that contribute to ASD advocacy and support autistic people in our community.

In this episode of the podcast, I, Keya Mysorekar, sit down with Allison Dickin—a mom raising a neurodivergent child and founder of Neura! As co-founder of The ASD Project and Infinite Bridges, sitting down with Allison was such an eye-opening conversation. We dive deep into what parenting a neurodivergent child actually looks like behind the scenes, from the initial struggles of being taken seriously to learning how to throw out useless advice and trust your instincts.

We cover so much ground in this episode, including:

- What teachers and schools constantly get wrong about supporting neurodivergent students

- Why we need to stop focusing on traditional milestones and start celebrating everyday connection

- How to make home a safe space where kids don't feel forced to mask or comply

- How high schoolers can step up as genuine, supportive allies for their peers

- Plus, a quick look into Allison’s work with Neura and how she’s helping other parents navigate this journey.

Whether you’re a student, parent, or educator, this episode is packed with real talk and honest insights you won't want to miss. Tune in now!

Have any guest/topic requests? Please fill out the content request form HERE.

This truly wouldn’t have been possible without our incredible and kind guest, Allison Dickin. We look up to people just like her that keep advocating for the community. She is such an amazing person, making an app to make it easier for neurodivergent parents to navigate life. Thank you so much, Allison, for being a guest on our podcast. We could not be more grateful. Check out more information about Allison’s app HERE.

Content Request Link: https://www.theasdproject.org/blank-10

Allison Dickin’s Website:

https://neuraparent.com/?utm_source=asd_project&utm_medium=podcast-guest&utm_campaign=creator-batch-1

In the third episode of Infinite Bridges, co-founder Addison Kurtin speaks with therapist Stephanie Wright about how can counseling can help autistic clients move from disconnection to connection.

Together we discuss:

- How therapists work with autistic clients

-The importance of meeting clients where they're at

-How to understand the unique styles and modalities that different therapists apply

-Why a neurodiversity-affirming approach matters

-The importance of connection in therapy

-The resources that are available for autistic clients and their families

Whether you are interested in the world of psychology or you're looking to support autistic people in your community, this episode will teach you a lot about what an autism diagnosis means from a therapist's perspective!

Connect with our guest:

-Visit www.thewrightcounseling.com to learn more about Stephanie and what her private practice does

Support theasdproject:

Don't forget to create your free account at www.theasdproject.org to gain access to our digital library! We have a range of completely free guidebooks and articles designed to support daily living and contribute to ASD advocacy.

In this episode of Infinite Bridges, co-founder Keya Mysorekar interviews Ruhee Patkar, a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) to explore how we can better support autistic individuals in building daily skills, unlocking communication, and fostering independence.

Together, we discuss:

• The Role of an RBT
• Finding a Voice
• Behavior as Communication
• The Power of Play & Trust
• Steps to Independence
• Self-Advocacy & Boundaries
• At-Home Strategies

Whether you are a student looking to be a good friend, a parent navigating the world of behavior therapy, or an individual wanting to learn how daily skills can lead to greater autonomy, this episode is packed with practical tools!

Connect with our Guest:

• Be sure to follow Ruhee's work and connect with local supportive services in your community.

Support theasdproject:

• Don't forget to create your free account today at www.theasdproject.org to get notified the second our digital library launches! You'll get free access to guidebooks and articles designed to make daily living and advocacy easier.

In this kickoff episode, we are diving deep into the ultimate milestones of growing up: Driving, Work, and Independent Adulthood. Our incredible guess is Andrew Arboe - a professional speaker, autistic self-advocate, and founder of the Driving With Autism program. Together, we discuss:

- Hitting the Road: Why learning how to drive is such a massive milestone.

- Entering the Workplace: Crucial advice for young Autistic adults entering the workforce.

Steps to Adulthood: Practical daily life skills Autistic high school seniors can start practicing right now.

Whether you are an ASD high schooler preparing for the future, a parent guiding your child, or an individual wanting to hear the perspective of navigating Autism from a self-advocate, this episode is packed with important material!

Connect with our guest! Check out his incredible website: https://andrewarboe.weebly.com.

Stay tuned for our upcoming episodes; meanwhile, spread the word and check out resources on our website: www.theasdproject.org. Thanks for watching!

Embark us on our podcast journey by watching our trailer! Follow us so you'll be the first to know when our first episode is released. We have a variety of ASD guests that will appear on our show, so stay tuned!