Autism Family Resource

 Host: Brian Keene, Pure Hearts Therapy Guest: Mandy — Autistic Advocate, Peer Mentor, Neurodiversity Educator   📘 Episode Summary In today's episode, Brian welcomes back Mandy—an autistic advocate whose insight, honesty, and lived experiences help bridge understanding between neurodivergent individuals and the communities around them. This conversation explores: What true inclusion looks like How peers can become better allies The power of online communities Healthy boundaries and safety for autistic adolescents Why children should be believed, supported, and included intentionally Real-life stories from Penguin Project musical theatre How parents and teachers can advocate with—not for—their children What friendship means through a neurodivergent lens How resources and gentle assistance can reduce stress and build empowerment This is an honest, insightful, heartfelt conversation that helps families, educators, and peers understand ways to foster acceptance, belonging, and meaningful relationships.     ✨ Key Takeaways 1. Inclusion Isn't "Letting Them Sit at the Table"—It's Wanting Them There Mandy explains that inclusion goes beyond the "right thing to do." It's about recognizing that a person's presence matters and enriches the group. 2. Online Spaces Often Lead the Way Digital communities remove physical judgments and bring people together based on interests and strengths—not labels. 3. Peers Can Advocate Through Their Actions Modeling respectful communication Directing conversation to the neurodivergent individual rather than around them Recognizing and celebrating strengths Meeting people where they are 4. Parents Should Be Active Participants in IEPs Brian and Mandy discuss examples of parents who: Observe classrooms firsthand Ask specific questions Identify mismatches between learning environments and student needs Advocate beyond the "check-the-box" approach 5. Misconceptions About Friendship For many autistic individuals: The line between acquaintance and friend may feel unclear Empathy is expressed through shared experiences, not always through typical responses Volume, pacing, or intensity may fluctuate with comfort or excitement Gentle, respectful cues from friends can be extremely helpful. 6. Teaching Boundaries Is Critical Mandy shares personal experiences illustrating how: Autistic youth often aren't taught what harassment or unhealthy dynamics look like Early boundary education (middle school age) can prevent exploitation Families and educators should prioritize these conversations 7. Support Is More Than Information—It's Assistance Sharing resources is important, but offering help with applications, forms, or steps shows real advocacy.     💬 Memorable Quotes "Inclusion isn't just letting someone sit at the table—it's wanting them to be there." – Mandy "Meeting people where they're at is huge." – Brian "Some of us don't even know what a friend is—and that's okay." – Mandy "Teaching healthy boundaries early can change lives." – Mandy     🔗 Resources Mentioned Penguin Project – Inclusive musical theatre program pairing neurodivergent actors with peer mentors CARD (Center for Autism & Related Disabilities) – State-supported resources (varies by location) Local/state autism agencies or community groups Online peer support communities for autistic youth and adults     👋 Connect With Us Pure Hearts Therapy Website: pureheartstherapy.com  

In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian sits down with autism advocate Mandy Pinckley, who shares her lived experiences growing up autistic, navigating deep emotions, overcoming isolation, and finding her voice as a speaker and advocate. Mandy opens up about the challenges she faced in childhood, the bullying she endured, and the obstacles that come with being a late-diagnosed autistic girl. She also discusses digital safety, online vulnerabilities for autistic teens, and how her painful experiences led her to advocacy work—including speaking at the CARD Conference about protecting autistic adolescents online. Parents and caregivers will learn how to: • Better understand the emotional depth many autistic children experience • Foster open, judgment-free communication • Support their child's self-identity and autonomy • Build safety, connection, and community Key Topics: Mandy's late diagnosis and how it changed her life Emotional intensity & misunderstood behavior Bullying, isolation & digital-age vulnerability How parents can create safer online environments Supporting identity development in a neurodiversity-affirming way Why community and connection reduce shame and fear Resources Mentioned: • CARD – Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (Florida) • PureHearts Therapy resources & parent support services Connect / Work With Us: 👉 Learn more or book a consultation: www.pureheartstherapy.com 👉 Follow us on social media for daily support & tips Thank you for listening — and remember, you are not alone on this journey.  

🔍 Episode Overview: In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, host Brian Keene sits down with licensed therapist and autism advocate Megan Ashley to explore how empathy and cultural context shape our understanding of autism. From decoding sensory experiences to the challenges of masking and gender disparities in diagnosis, this conversation is packed with insight and practical tools for parents. Learn how to redefine what "okay" really means for your autistic child—and why listening without bias is one of the most powerful things you can do. 🧠 In This Episode, You'll Learn: What autism culture is—and why it matters How to spot sensory signs early What masking looks like in kids and adults Why girls are often underdiagnosed How to shift from fear to understanding as a parent 📌 Key Takeaways: Understanding autism requires empathy and cultural awareness Sensory experiences are crucial indicators of autism Masking is exhausting and often misunderstood Gender differences affect diagnosis rates Parents must tune into their child's unique sensory needs Redefining 'okay' is critical to truly supporting autistic children Accommodations aren't optional—they're necessary Listening to your child's needs builds stronger connections 🕒 Episode Chapters: 00:00 – Understanding Autism Through Empathy 03:02 – Cultural Context in Autism 05:46 – Sensory Experiences and Accommodations 09:00 – The Concept of Masking 12:04 – Gender Differences in Autism Diagnosis 15:09 – Recognizing Autism in Children 17:50 – Parenting Autistic Children 21:14 – Redefining 'Okay' for Autistic Kids 23:32 – Listening to Your Child's Needs 🎤 Guest: Megan Ashley, LCSW – Therapist, Author, Parent Advocate 🎙️ Host: Brian Keene, Pure Hearts Therapy 🛠️ Resources Mentioned: Website: perfectandconsulting.com Instagram: @imperfectconsulting Book: Blueprints of Behavior – available at Amazon, Target, Walmart, Barnes & Noble 📲 Stay Connected: 🌐 Website: pureheartstherapy.com 📷 Instagram: @purehearts_therapy 📘 Facebook: Pure Hearts Therapy 👥 Join the Community: Autism Family Resource Facebook Group ⭐ Subscribe & Review: Don't miss an episode! Subscribe, rate, and leave a review to help more families find support. 🎧 Listen now: https://pod.link/1591840956 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, and more.

When raising a child with autism, ADHD, or sensory challenges, many families focus primarily on child-centered therapy. While occupational therapy, speech therapy, and behavior therapy are incredibly important, family support is just as crucial for long-term success. At Pure Hearts Therapy, we believe real change happens when parents are empowered too.  In a recent episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene sat down with Lisa Chan, a parent coach, pediatric occupational therapist, and expert in child behavior, to discuss how parents can transform family dynamics and empower their child's emotional growth. Why Family Support Matters in Autism Therapy As Lisa explains, parents are the most important factor in a child's progress.  Therapists may only see a child once or twice a week—but parents guide daily routines, manage emotions in real-time, and provide the secure foundation that every child needs. Without strong family dynamics, even the best therapy services can't create lasting change. That's why autism family support and parent coaching for autism are becoming such essential resources today. Emotional Regulation: The Foundation of Growth One of the key areas Lisa focuses on is emotional regulation strategies.  Children are not born knowing how to manage big emotions. They learn it by experiencing it alongside a regulated adult. Co-regulation—the process where parents model emotional calmness—helps children build their own ability to stay calm during challenges.  It's not about suppressing emotions or "just staying calm" on the surface. It's about truly understanding and validating your child's feelings while staying grounded yourself. ✅ Tip: Practice noticing your own emotional triggers. During your child's meltdown, focus on staying steady, not perfect. Your child will learn from your energy more than your words. Setting Boundaries Builds Security Many families worry that firm boundaries might upset their child more—but Lisa emphasizes the opposite:  Firm, loving boundaries create emotional safety. Children thrive when expectations are clear and consistent.  When boundaries constantly shift, children feel uncertain, which can lead to more meltdowns, anxiety, and resistance. ✅ Tip: Stick to your "no" when necessary—with kindness and validation.  For example, "I know you really want that candy, and it's okay to feel upset. We're not getting it today, but I'm here with you." This approach supports secure attachment and builds resilience over time. Social Skills Struggles: How Parents Can Help Another common concern for families today is helping children with autism develop social skills.  If a child struggles with emotional regulation or reading social cues, they may feel isolated or left out at school or on the playground. Instead of hoping they'll "figure it out," Lisa recommends active social skills coaching. ✅ Tip: Practice role-playing common social situations at home. Pretend to be another child and guide your child through ways to join games, start conversations, or handle conflict. This kind of practice can build confidence and reduce social anxiety—key parts of social skills support for autism. Final Words of Encouragement for Parents Lisa shares a powerful reminder: "If you're noticing struggles—whether it's with your child or your own confidence as a parent—don't wait. Get support now. Early intervention helps both children and families thrive long-term." Today's families are carrying more stress than ever.  Between social media comparisons, isolation from extended family, and the daily demands of parenting, seeking help for yourself is a sign of strength, not weakness. Ready for More Support? If you're looking for: ●       Family-centered autism support ●       Parent coaching for emotional regulation ●       Social skills development strategies ●       Help navigating family dynamics with autism Pure Hearts Therapy is here to walk alongside you.  We offer playful, personalized, and respectful therapy services to help families grow stronger—together. 👉 Learn more about our services and how we can help you here! 🎧 Listen to the full episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast featuring Lisa Chan here. Special Offer: Lisa is offering a 40% discount on her Emotional Regulation Course and a 30% discount on parent coaching packages for Mother's Day (available throughout May)!

        In this powerful episode, host Brian Keene welcomes Dr. Martine Laventure, a licensed social worker, mother, and passionate advocate for autism and inclusion. Together, they explore the complexities of navigating an autism diagnosis as a parent, the importance of building a village, and how cultural understanding shapes access to care. Dr. Martine shares her personal journey as a mother to an autistic child, how she uses her lens as a clinician and parent, and offers encouraging, real-world advice for families trying to find their footing. They also discuss disparities in autism care within Black and Brown communities, the importance of culturally competent services, and how to avoid therapy burnout. Key Topics Discussed: - Building your support system and treatment team - Talking to your child and family about autism - Understanding and honoring cultural differences - Self-advocacy and caregiver empowerment - When therapy becomes too much – recognizing the signs of burnout - The need for culturally informed care and inclusive assessments - Encouragement for teens, young adults, and parents to seek support Guest Info: Dr. Martine Laventure is a licensed social worker, school clinician, per diem therapist, and founder of LaVenture Consulting. She offers training and consulting on autism, cultural competence, and family empowerment. She's also releasing a children's book on autism! Connect with Dr. Martine Laventure: - Website: http://laventureconsultant.com - Instagram: @laventure.csllc Resources Mentioned: - ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences) - Philadelphia Expanded ACEs Study - Autism education and caregiver advocacy Love this episode? Share it with another parent or therapist who needs to hear it. Don't forget to subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform! Connect with Us: - Website: https://www.pureheartstherapy.com - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pureheartstherapy - Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/autismfamilyresource - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/purehearts_therapy