Autism Learning Lab Podcast: Insights, Strategies, and Support
Join us as we explore the world of autism through expert interviews, personal stories, and actionable strategies to empower individuals and families.
EP 7: Autism Learning Lab's Family Retreats: A Model for Family Growth
Join clinical therapist Chris Blankenship and licensed counselor Maura Nolan as they dive into Autism Learning Lab’s innovative family retreat model. Discover how these retreats combine psychoeducation with experiential learning to strengthen family dynamics, improve communication, and empower parents with tools to support their autistic children. Maura shares her insights on fostering understanding, self-awareness, and connection, offering a glimpse into the transformative potential of these retreats.
EP 6: Unmasking Autism – Gender Differences in Diagnosis
In this episode, Chris welcomes Dr. Melissa Horne, a licensed psychologist working with Psychological Solutions. A self-proclaimed psych testing enthusiast, Dr. Horne explains the basics of psychological testing, what to expect from the process, and why it’s more than just a label—it’s a tool for gaining deep insights into one’s strengths and challenges.
EP 5: Practical Tools for the Neurodiverse Child in Your Life
Chris welcomes Amy Wood and Michelle Bjelland from Cottonwood Day School to discuss their unique approach to inclusive learning. They share tools for supporting neurodiverse children, partnering with families, and fostering success in both educational and home settings.
EP 4: Substance Use and Autism
Today, Chris welcomes Dr. Aaron Wallis, a licensed psychologist with a background in college counseling and outdoor behavioral health. Dr. Wallis is currently partnered with Psychologist Solutions and is passionate about how substance use ties into attachment and trauma, specifically with those on the Autistic spectrum. Chris and Dr. Wallis discuss the trends they are starting to see between those on the spectrum and severe substance abuse, why overgeneralization is a dangerous practice, and how “typical” treatment may need to be adapted to fit the unique needs of the neurodiverse individual.
EP 3: The Science of Sleep – How It Impacts Autism
Chris and Dr. Melissa Horne explore how sleep impacts cognitive and emotional well-being, especially for neurodiverse individuals. They discuss practical strategies for improving sleep and simple techniques for optimizing rest and rejuvenation.
EP 2: Psychological Testing: What it is and Why it Works
In this episode, Chris welcomes Dr. Melissa Horne, a licensed psychologist working with Psychological Solutions. A self-proclaimed psych testing nerd, Dr. Horne covers everything from the basics of psychological testing (what it is) to finding a professional to work with, what testing entails, and what to expect when you’re presented with the results. As Chris and Dr. Horne explain, comprehensive psychological testing is more than a “rubber stamp” label of you as a person - it’s an insight into your wonderful and complex story - ideally resulting in a thorough understanding of your unique makeup and how this knowledge can shape your future.
EP 1: Beyond The Spectrum: A Parent’s Story
On our flagship episode, Chris welcomes Claire, the mother of an 18-year-old daughter who was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder at the age of 16. Claire recounts how her daughter was recognized as gifted by the age of 4 but was later diagnosed in middle school with ADHD, slow processing speed, and executive dysfunction. She describes the challenges her daughter faced during remote learning due to COVID-19, which led to self-harming behaviors and marijuana use. Eventually, her daughter acknowledged the need for professional help. Now, Claire candidly shares the ups and downs of their ongoing journey as their family continues to adapt to this new “normal.”
