Supporting the Spectrum

In Part 2 of Tara and Jaclyn’s conversation with Molly Love, BCBA and self-advocate, we explore the experiences of autistic girls and women in education, the importance of lived experience in the field of ABA, and the challenges many autistic adults face when seeking diagnosis and support. Join us as we discuss masking, self-advocacy, adult autism diagnosis, and how professionals can better partner with autistic individuals to create more inclusive and affirming support systems.

In Part 1 of this two-part series, Tara and Jaclyn sit down with Molly Love, BCBA and autistic self-advocate, to explore how autism can present differently in girls and women. Together, they discuss common misconceptions, the concept of masking, why many autistic women go unrecognized for years, and the emotional impact of constantly hiding autistic traits. Molly shares both professional insights and personal experiences while offering practical strategies for creating environments where autistic individuals feel accepted, understood, and supported.

In this episode of Supporting the Spectrum, we explore what it really means to make change more accessible for neurodivergent individuals. Joined by transition specialists Jen DeLaporte and Jaclyn Benigno, we unpack why transitions, both everyday and life-changing, can be challenging, how executive functioning, anxiety, and sensory differences play a role, and what meaningful support can look like across home, school, and adulthood. From practical strategies to myth-busting common misconceptions, this conversation focuses on shifting the question from “How do we make someone tolerate change?” to “How do we make change itself more supportive and predictable?”

In this special episode celebrating 20 years at the Thompson Center, we’re joined by Dr. Judith Miles, Pediatrician and Medical Geneticist, who has been part of the Center since it first opened. Dr. Miles reflects on her role, shares memories from the early days, and offers insight into what makes the Thompson Center such a meaningful place for families impacted by autism and neurodevelopmental conditions. Join us as we honor two decades of growth, impact, and dedication to the families we serve.

In this special episode celebrating 20 years at the Thompson Center, we’re joined by Tammy Hickman, a dedicated nurse who has been caring for patients at the Center for more than 15 years. Tammy shares about her role, reflects on what makes the Thompson Center such a special place for families impacted by autism and neurodevelopmental conditions, and looks ahead with excitement on the move to the new building. Join us as we continue honoring two decades of impact, care, and community.

Welcome back to Supporting the Spectrum! In this special episode celebrating 20 years at the Thompson Center, we’re joined by Hope McPheeters, founder of Ella’s Hope for Autism. After her daughter Ella was diagnosed with autism at age two, Hope turned her family’s journey into a mission to support others. She shares her first experience with the Thompson Center, how it has impacted her family and community, and the inspiration behind Ella’s Hope. Join us as we reflect on two decades of impact and look ahead to the future of the autism community.

Back-to-school means fresh starts — and new challenges.

In this episode, two Board Certified Behavior Analyst who work in public schools share practical, neurodiversity-affirming strategies to understand and support challenging behavior, so every student can thrive.

In this special episode of Supporting the Spectrum, we’re celebrating a major milestone — the 20th Annual Thompson Center Autism Conference. Host, Tara DeVore is joined by Cortney Fish, Director of the Thompson Center’s training core, to discuss the evolution of the conference, whats in store for this year’s attendees, and why the event remains a cornerstone for the autism community. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at two decades of impact, learning, and connection.

Register for the 20th Annual Thompson Center Conference Here —> https://tcautismconf.com