“Reflecting on the Journey” – A Retreat for Parents of Autistic Family Members

• By: Barry M. Prizant, PhD, CCC-SLP Childhood Communication Services, University of Rhode Island Elaine C. Meyer, PhD, RN Harvard Medical School Barbara Domingue, MEd Community Autism Resources
• October 2nd, 2023
• caregivers, community building, emotional support, Fall 2023 Issue, family support, fun, improved relationships, parenting challenges, parents, reflection, respite, rest, retreat, self-care, social support networking, stress management, stress relief
• 1783    2

This past year marked the 25th anniversary year of our annual weekend retreat for parents of young and adult autistic individuals. This innovative family support activity has become a highlight of the year for us, and for many of the approximately 60 parents of autistic family members who join us...

A How-To Guide to Emotional Support for Neurodiverse Couples

• By: Leslie A. Sickels, LCSW Clinical Social Worker
• October 2nd, 2023
• communication, emotional support, empathy, Fall 2023 Issue, listening, managing expectations, miscommunication, neurodevelopmental differences, neurodiverse relationships, neurodiversity, relationship needs, task shifting, theory of mind
• 4973    2

In my neurodiverse couples therapy practice in New York City, many central themes are addressed including communication, intimacy, sex, and parenting. However, one of the most consistent themes brought up by neurotypical partners is feeling a lack of emotional support in their relationship. Their...

The Critical Role of Grandparents for Autism Families

• By: Marina Sarris SPARK | Simons Foundation Autism Research Initiative
• October 2nd, 2023
• babysitting, developmental delays, emotional support, Fall 2023 Issue, financial help, first signs of autism, grandparents, manage behaviors, parenting stress, respite, transportation, wandering
• 1468    0

Grandma is sometimes the first to suspect. Nick Juritza sat up and crawled a bit later than usual. “My mom noticed little things about my son,” says Nick’s mother, Kelli Juritza. “She said to me, ‘You know, you might want to get him checked out.'” Juritza is among several parents...

Mobilizing to Maintain Continuity of the Yes She Can Training Program

• By: Lesli Cattan, LCSW Yes She Can
• July 1st, 2020
• anxiety, COVID-19, emotional support, job coaching, job skills, summer 2020 issue, technology, virtual, young women
• 1542    2

Yes She Can provides a job skills training program for young women with autism and related social and learning disabilities. The program is implemented at Girl AGain boutique where clinical professionals and business managers coach trainees in all aspects of running the business. It has been a...