Springbrook's Converge Autism Radio

Join us for another "Just the Guys" episode. Dan and the guys (Clay, Greg, Jeremy, & Mark) discuss their views of neurodiversity. What is it? Is this movement a good thing or not? How do you define it? Is the term useful? The guys discuss is the term helpful or harmful? Is it watered down or over used?


Dr. Holmes adds she prefers the Harvard Medical School definition of neurodiversity: describes those with neurological differences such as autism, ADHD, learning differences and delays and other developmental differences.

Join Kristin from Mental Health News Radio and Jeremy from Nuero FM as they discuss how difficult unpacking an autism diagnosis can be. This first step, especially for adults, takes time to figure out. We find others trying narrate and judge our experiences offering what can feel like hurtful commentary. For those of us diagnosed later in life, we have an entire experience with many years to unpack. We will say things "incorrectly".  So why not let everyone enjoy and speak about their journey with Autism in their own words? 

Once you find your peeps, life gets even more hopeful, helpful, and fabulous!

Jeremy Rochford is a later-in-life diagnosed Autistic/ADHD’r who is raising two Neurodivergent Children with his “NT” wife, Charity. Through guest interviews and “Team Rochford,” you’ll hear firsthand the challenges and benefits of being on the spectrum and practical advice for those who are Neurodivergent or love someone who is. Join us and experience why “NeuroFm” is called the least depressing Neurodivergent podcast in the world.

https://www.jeremyrochford.com/

You have heard on Converge Autism Radio, Dan Holmes and "Just the Guys!" but listeners asked for more stories about girls and women on the autism Spectrum.

Join Dr. Stephanie Holmes, her daughter Sydney, Molly, Sarah, and Julie as they discuss autism and women!  Sydney shares her journey as identified early in life and entering a marriage relationship knowing about her identification to the other ladies sharing later identification in life and later in marriage. The entire discussion is autism in women across different ages and some moms shares about their daughter's diagnosis journey.

Join Dr. Stephanie Holmes with Beverly and Megan at the 2024 Converge Autism conference for a discussion about multi-sensory learning. 

Beverly Brown and Megan Spann both work at AIDB. The Alabama Institute of the Deaf and Blind, Helen Keller School of Alabama offers families of multi-disabled students specially designed instruction that aids in successful outcomes. We discuss how AIDB consists of many special educators with different backgrounds of expertise and years of experience. Our discussion today will help both families and educators learn about the many supports and resources available for students with Autism. It will offer, teaching strategies that help all students facing difficulties. 
We will also offer continued support and availability after the conference for educators or families that need contact support throughout their journey. We will offer transition options and knowledge of how to make transition years successful for their older students.  So, support in the years to come will be available and never-ending.

Today, Dr. Stephanie and Carolyn discuss self-concept, self-identity, and self-esteem as key ingredients to building social communication skills. Carolyn's curriculum starts from a neurodiverse-affirming lens that is strengths-based and effective.

Carolyn Long is a speech-language pathologist and is the creator of the Social Optics curriculum.

https://mysocialoptics.com/

Join Kristin and Gaile for a discussion about how difficult it can be, depending on where you live, to find Autism resources for your family. 

Gaile Valcho is originally from New York and has an MBA from Florida Atlantic University. She is a wife and mom to a teenage autistic boy. She has over a decade of experience in the autism community and is certified in Master IEP training. 

Gaile and her husband founded The Brady Valcho Autism Foundation in 2022 to help families in her community find much-needed resources and provide scholarships to families for autism summer camps. She and her husband are also the founders of The Holly Springs Autism Acceptance Day Event held each fall. Part of the foundation’s mission is to provide free autism training to first responders and area businesses to help others engage with the autistic population. Gaile enjoys spending time with her family, running, and traveling. Her favorite quote is by Ruth Bader Ginsburg. ~“Fight for things you care about. But do it in a way that will lead others to join you.”  

https://bva.foundation/

Join Kristin and Jenilee as they discuss the loving challenges parents can face with children on the spectrum.

As a professional life coach and autism coach, Jenilee brings lived experience, problem solving skills, compassionate support and creativity into each coaching session. Jenilee asks the hard questions while listening, guiding and coaching clients in their unique life situation. Through one-on-one coaching and group coaching, Jenilee uses the Equipping Profile, book studies, and individual homework to establish personal development plans, helping clients move forward and reach goals in healthy ways. With many in her immediate family on the autism spectrum, Jenilee has a special place in her heart for moms of kids on the spectrum and for NT wives going through the difficulties of ND marriages. There are very few places to share the full story. In coaching with Jenilee, you can share every single page of the story. Along with coaching, Jenilee loves reading, writing, coffee, going for walks, and watching history documentaries. You can connect with Jenilee daily on Instagram @jenileerachel or through her website, jenileerachel.com.

Join Dr. Stephanie as she and Quatiba Davis (a panel expert and speaker at the Converge Autism conference) discuss Autism in the classroom. Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects individuals in various ways, making it essential for clinicians to understand how to support students with autism in school clearly.

Bio: Quatiba Davis M.Ed., BCBA, LABAChief Clinical Officer, BCBA, - ABA Centers of Florida/America/New Jersey/Tennessee/Texas/Georgia

Ms. Quatiba Davis is a distinguished Board-Certified Behavior Analyst with a remarkable career trajectory characterized by leadership, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to enhancing the lives of individuals and families through Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). She exemplifies her dedication to the field of ABA with a visionary approach that includes a comprehensive strategy for professional development, client support, and community engagement.

"Autism in the Classroom: What a Clinician Should Know”
Abstract: Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects individuals in various ways, making it important for clinicians to have a clear understanding of how to support students with autism in the classroom. Come learn with me about ways to effectively include individuals with autism and their families into the classroom!
Objectives:
• Individualized Education Plans (IEPs): Many students with autism have IEPs that outline their specific
needs and goals. Clinicians should be familiar with these plans and work collaboratively with special
education teams to implement them effectively.
• Sensory Sensitivities: Students with autism may have sensory sensitivities, such as being sensitive to
loud noises, bright lights, or certain textures. Creating a sensory-friendly classroom with options for
sensory breaks can help these students feel more comfortable.
• Communication: Some students with autism may have difficulty with verbal communication. Clinicians
should be prepared to use augmentative communication methods such as picture communication
systems, sign language, or assistive technology.
• Structured Routine: Consistency and structure are essential for many students with autism.
• Positive Behavior Support: Implement positive behavior support strategies to reinforce desired
behaviors and provide clear expectations and consequences.
• Inclusion: Promote inclusion by creating opportunities for students with autism to interact with their
neurotypical peers. Encourage understanding and acceptance among all students.
• Professional Development: Clinicians should seek training and professional development opportunities
to better understand autism and effective teaching strategies for these students.
• Collaboration: Collaborate with exceptional education staff, ABA therapists, Behavior Analysts, and Physical
and Occupational therapists.
• Patience and Empathy: Remember that each student with autism is unique, and it's crucial to approach
them with patience, empathy, and a willingness to learn about their needs and strengths.

Listen and learn about ways to effectively include individuals with autism and their families in the classroom!

Join Chip Bottone and Kresimir Klenovic, Founder of Natably, as they discuss their app, its intended impact on the Autism community, and how AI is being developed to help us all reach our full potential.

https://natably.com/

Join Dr. Stephanie Holmes as she meets Kelley Ryals at the AACC conference during her poster presentation on Autism and Trauma. I wanted to have her as a guest to discuss when it is autism & trauma and when trauma is misdiagnosed as autism. We talk, about ADHD, ASD, Trauma distinguishing them apart and when they are combined. 

Kelley's bio in her own words:
Her focus is on helping you navigate the difficult times in life. her biggest joy is watching an individual become happier, healthier, and more productive. She is a 58 years old, a mother of five, and a grandmother of 2. She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Counselor education and supervision with Liberty University because she wants to see as many well-trained therapists out there as possible.

Kelley's Bio Below:
Autism Specialist, EMDR, Depression, ADHD, Anxiety, Autism and ADHD testing, Couples, Children, Play therapy, Foster Adoptive issues trained in TBRI. IFS Level 1 trained, Level 2 Sand Tray Therapy, Level 2 Gottman trained, member of EMDRIA , the ACA and the AACC. Free Trauma and Grief groups are offered.

Find out more at: https://krcounseling.org/