Early development is a critical time for neurodivergent individuals, and interventions like ABA therapy at a young age can interfere with natural brain development.

Warning - this episode contains themes that some individuals may find distressing.

In this episode, Jordan James and Simon Scott are joined by Maisie Soetantyo, an openly autistic ADHDer and founder of Autism Career Pathways. They discuss Macy's experience working with autistic children and shares her concerns about the limitations and potential harm of ABA therapy, highlighting the importance of individuality and unique experiences. They also discuss the need for parents to trust their intuition and find affirming approaches to support their autistic children. The conversation sheds light on the misconceptions and language surrounding autism, and the growing movement towards more inclusive and respectful approaches to therapy and support. Maisie introduces her latest project, Guiding Extraordinary Minds (GEM), which aims to provide support and training for autistic professionals, parents, and educators. She also highlights the mission of her non-profit organization, Autism Create Pathways, in reducing barriers at workplaces for autistic individuals.

Takeaways

• Parenting neurodivergent children requires a balance between accommodating their needs and fostering independence.
• Stimming is a natural and necessary behavior for autistic individuals, and it should not be discouraged or suppressed.
• Parenting intuitively and problem-solving in the moment is crucial for supporting neurodivergent children.
• Using affirming language and providing positive information about autism can help individuals embrace their neurodivergent identity and feel empowered.

00:00 Introduction

03:13 Starting Work with Autistic Children

07:25 Turning Away from ABA Therapy

12:19 Issues with ABA Therapy

31:00 Advocacy and Affirming Approaches

33:25 Negative Portrayal of Autistic People in Media

34:17 The Damage of ABA Therapy

38:39 The Challenges of Advocacy

41:25 Accountability and Safe Spaces

47:34 Balancing Accommodation and Autistic Identity

50:22 Parenting Intuitively and Supporting Neurodivergent Kids

56:37 Guiding Extraordinary Minds and Autism Create Pathways

Maisie Soetantyo is an openly autistic ADHDer who has been working with autistic people for over 30 years. She is the founder of a nonprofit in San Francisco Bay Area, Autism Career Pathways. She is also the founder of Guiding Extraordinary Minds (GEM), a platform for autistic folks to guide parents and professionals.

Links: https://linktr.ee/maisiesoetantyo

Website: www.autismcareerpathways.org

Whether you're Neurodivergent yourself, a friend, family member, or simply curious about this extraordinary way of experiencing the world, this podcast is your guide to unravelling The Neurodivergent Experience.

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