Amplifying Autistic Voices - Resources for Understanding and Advocacy
At Joyscape Therapy, we believe true support for the autistic community starts with listening, learning, and evolving. As a child-directed, play-based ABA provider, we aim to empower our clients through self-advocacy, communication, and naturalistic learning while fostering a safe and supportive environment. We are committed to integrating trauma-informed approaches and continuously refining our practices to ensure we uplift and respect the voices of autistic individuals.
In honor of Autism Acceptance Month, we highlighted resources created by and for autistic people because their insights, experiences, and advocacy are invaluable in shaping a more inclusive and understanding world. Keep reading to explore books, articles, and perspectives that celebrate neurodiversity and self-determination.
Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN)
ASAN works to advance the rights of autistic individuals by advocating for policy change, creating accessible resources, and promoting the neurodiversity movement. Their work ensures that autistic voices are at the center of conversations about autism, from healthcare and education to employment and self-determination.
They also provide tool kits, research, and advocacy opportunities to empower autistic individuals and allies to push for meaningful change. Their motto says it best: “Nothing About Us, Without Us.”
🔗 Learn more: https://autisticadvocacy.org
Council of Autism Service Providers (CASP)
CASP (Council of Autism Service Providers) is a national nonprofit supporting autism service providers with best practices, advocacy, and professional development.
CASP helps ensure that organizations offering autism services follow high standards, provide ethical care, and advocate for policies that support autistic individuals and their families. They also provide guidelines, accreditation programs, and training to improve the quality of services across the field.
By promoting high standards in autism care, CASP is helping to create a future where autistic individuals receive the support they need in ways that respect their dignity and autonomy.
🔗 Learn more: https://www.casproviders.org
IG: casproviders
Autism Personal Coach
Navigating life as an autistic adult can come with unique challenges, but having the proper support makes all the difference. Autism Personal Coach provides neurodiversity-affirming coaching to help autistic adults and teens build confidence, achieve goals, and thrive in their daily lives.
Their coaching services are designed by and for neurodivergent people, focusing on areas like executive functioning, self-advocacy, employment, relationships, and independent living skills, all while respecting and celebrating autistic identities.
They also host the "Autism Stories" podcast, where autistic individuals share their journeys, insights, and successes. If you’re looking for support that truly understands autism from an inside perspective, this is an incredible resource!
🎧 Learn more & listen: https://www.autismpersonalcoach.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkgL-oYbYM4kH0FHbegvziQ
The Autistic Culture Podcast
Autism isn’t just a diagnosis; it’s a culture. The Autistic Culture Podcast dives deep into the rich and diverse world of autistic experiences, history, and identity. This podcast, hosted by Dr. Angela Kingdon and Matt Lowry, LPP, explores how autistic people shape and define their culture, from communication and creativity to advocacy and self-expression.
By centering autistic voices and perspectives, this podcast challenges stereotypes and highlights the unique ways autistic individuals experience the world. Whether you're autistic yourself, a loved one, or an ally, this is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand better and celebrate autism from the inside out!
🎧 Listen here: https://www.autisticculturepodcast.com/
Loud Hands: Autistic People, Speaking
Autism acceptance means listening to and learning from autistic voices. One powerful resource we encourage everyone to explore is "Loud Hands: Autistic People, Speaking" by Julia Bascom.
This book is a collection of essays by autistic individuals sharing their experiences, perspectives, and advocacy for a world that truly respects and understands neurodivergent people. It challenges misconceptions, highlights the importance of self-determination, and encourages us all to embrace autism as a valuable part of human diversity.
Whether you’re an autistic person, a caregiver, or an ally, this book is an eye-opening and essential read for fostering true acceptance and inclusion.
🔗 Check it out here: https://autisticadvocacy.org/book/loud-hands-autistic-people-speaking/
Julia Bascom on WordPress: https://juststimming.wordpress.com/
As Autism Acceptance Month reminds us, embracing neurodiversity means actively seeking out and uplifting autistic voices, not just in April but all year long. We hope the resources shared in this post offer meaningful insights, spark new conversations, and support deeper understanding for caregivers, professionals, and community members alike.
At Joyscape Therapy, we remain dedicated to learning from the autistic community and growing alongside the families we serve. Together, we can build a world that values every individual for who they are and empowers them to thrive.
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