What I Learned at the United Nations on World Autism Awareness Day
Advocate Anita Lesko describes the experience of addressing the United Nations on World Autism Day, and the work being done to help those on the spectrum around the world.
Gender, Sexuality, and Autism, with Leslie A. Sickels, LCSW | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 8
(32 mins) In this episode, hosts Lauren Gerber Ms. Ed., PSY. D. and Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS speak with Leslie A. Sickels, LCSW. They discuss the importance of educating people on the spectrum about sex, the common misnomers society has about autism and relationships, and gender identity issue within the ASD community.
Man with Down Syndrome Retires After Working 33 Years at McDonald’s – Week in Neurodiversity (5/20/17)
(3 mins 42 sec) In this episode, McDonald’s honors an employee with Down syndrome after working for 33 years, a son sings with his mother suffering from Alzheimer’s, and a teen with autism who was once non-verbal is now studying for his Masters in quantum physics! These stories and more in this week’s episode!
Autism and Speech Apraxia: Do Language Challenges Influence Behavior?
Dr. Brian Udell discusses a surprising new study that suggests there is no correlation between language deficits in children on the autism spectrum and their propensity to have meltdowns or perceived misbehavior.
Study Suggests Those with Autism Can Process More Sounds Simultaneously
A recent study suggests sound processing abilities in those on the autism spectrum may surpass that of neurotypical individuals.
Assessing Autism in Adults, with Dr. Katherine Cody | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 7
(31 minutes) In this episode, hosts Lauren Gerber Ms. Ed., PSY. D. and Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS speak with Katherine Cody, Psy.D., a licensed clinical psychologist in full-time private practice thatoffers psychological and neuropsychological evaluations including Adult Asperger’s Assessments
Doctor Raps for Concussion Awareness – Week in Neurodiversity (5/13/17)
(3 mins 28 sec) In this episode, a doctor raps for concussion awareness, a boy with Down syndrome opens up a cupcake shop, and Emma Stone and Michael Phelps speak about mental health awareness for the Child Mind Institute! These stories and more in this week’s episode!
Autism and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, with Dr. Gil Lichtshein | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 6
(28 minutes) In this episode, hosts Lauren Gerber Ms. Ed., PSY. D. and Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS speak with Dr. Gil Lichtshein. Dr. Gil discusses what TMS is and the effects it can have on patients on the spectrum, other options for treating symptoms that come with an autism diagnosis, and the care doctors should take in prescribing medications to patients with sensitive systems.
What My Autism “Looks Like”: Differences and Similarities Across the Spectrum
Eric Zimmerman discusses the variations of interests and skills of people on the spectrum, and the myth that people with autism "look" a certain way.
Bat Boy With Down Syndrome Hits a Home Run! – Week in Neurodiversity (5/6/17)
(4 mins 14 sec) In this episode, batboy with Down syndrome gets to bat leadoff for the high school baseball team, squeeze jackets are helping those on the autism spectrum, and how can Botox help those with depression and anxiety? These stories and more in this week’s edition!
Coding Autism: Helping People on the Spectrum Find Employment and Develop Skills
Oliver Thornton discusses his own diagnosis with Asperger's syndrome, and how he hopes his new venture, Coding Autism, can help others on the spectrum find meaningful employment.
Autism, OCD, & Anxiety: Treating Co-Occuring Conditions, with Dr. Rebecca Sachs | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 5
(33 mins) In this episode, hosts Dr. Lauren Gerber and Becca Lory speak with Rebecca Sachs, Ph.d. ABPP, a psychologist specializing in the treatment of individuals on the autism spectrum who also experience difficult co-occurring disorders, such as severe anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
Lady Gaga & Prince William Talk Mental Illness – Week in Neurodiversity (4/29/17)
(3 mins 54 sec) In this episode, Boy Meets World star Rider Strong makes the birthday wish of a boy with Down syndrome come true, Project UROK runs a beauty ad for anxiety, and Lady Gaga and prince Harry come together to talk mental health! These stories and more in this week’s edition!
Parent Advocates: Supporting Kids on the Autism Spectrum, with Stacey Hoaglund | EDB 78
(23 minutes) In this episode, Dr. Hackie Reitman sits down again with Stacey Hoaglund, editor of The Autism Notebook Magazine, a tireless advocate for the neurodiverse, and the mother of a son on the spectrum.
The Three “A”s of Autism, with Dr. Stephen Shore | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 4
(31 mins.) In this episode, hosts Lauren Gerber Ms. Ed., PSY. D. and Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS speak with Dr. Stephen Shore- an author, autism advocate, board member for Autism Speaks and the USAAA, and professor at Adelphi University.
Bottoms-Up: The Innovative Thinking Style of the Asperger’s Mind
Samantha Craft discusses the concept of "bottom up" processing, which is common amongst people on the autism spectrum.
Can Golf Help People with Parkinson’s? – Week in Neurodiversity (4/22/17)
(4 mins 10 sec) In this episode, Julia the Muppet with autism makes her big debut, golf helps a man with Parkinson’s, and a teen with Down syndrome is voted prom queen! These stories and more in this week’s edition!
Respecting Individuality on the Autism Spectrum, with Michael Alessandri, Ph.D. of UM-NSU CARD | EDB 77
(24 mins) In the second of a two part interview, Hackie Reitman, M.D.continues his conversation with Dr. Michael Alessandri, Exec. Director of the University of Miami-Nova Southeastern University Center for Autism and Related Disabilities, and chair of the Autism Innovations & Global Impact Conference hosted by Els for Autism.
Autism and ABA: What is Applied Behavior Analysis?
Rebecca Womack discusses what applied behavior analysis therapy is, and how it could be useful for some children on the autism spectrum.
Study Suggests Genetic Link Among Autism, ADHD, Bipolar, and Other Neurodiverse Conditions
According to a recent study, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, schizophrenia and autism all have one thing in common: they can each be traced back to the same inherited genetic variations.
The First “All-Autism” Wedding, with Anita Lesko | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 3
(37 mins) In this episode, hosts Lauren Gerber Ms. Ed., PSY. D. and Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS speak with Anita Lesko- a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist diagnosed with autism at the age of 50, and the bride of the first ever "All-Autism" wedding.
Can Yoga Ease Autism-Related Anxiety? – Week in Neurodiversity (4/15/17)
(4 mins) In this episode, a yoga class is helping those with autism, a new app is keeping kids with ADHD focused, and how has this viral prom proposal vid inspired others to contribute to the special occasion? These stories and more in this week’s edition!
Living In a World with Autism When You Don’t Know You Have It
Eryn Segal discusses life before and after her diagnosis with autism, and the social challenges she finds herself facing every day.
Uniting the Autism Community, with Dr. Michael Alessandri of UM-NSU CARD | EDB 76
(24 mins) In this first of a two part interview, Hackie Reitman, M.D. speaks with Dr. Michael Alessandri, the Executive Director of the University of Miami-Nova Southeastern University Center for Autism and Related Disabilities, and chair of the upcoming Autism Innovations & Global Impact Conference hosted by Els for Autism.
Autism and Resiliency, with Dena Gassner | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 2
(33 mins) In this episode, hosts Lauren Gerber Ms. Ed., PSY. D. and Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS speak with Dena Gassner, an advocate, writer, and speaker- including presenting for the UN in Geneva, Russia, and Cambridge.
Legoland Becomes Autism Friendly! – Week in Neurodiversity (4/08/17)
(3 min 43 sec) In this episode, virtual reality can help diagnose concussions, a new surgery can help those with Parkinson’s, and how is Legoland creating an autism friendly experience for families on the spectrum?
When Adults with Autism Face Difficult Life Change: 16 Supportive Actions
Jackie M. Marquette discusses the adversity that has touched the life of a close friends with autism, and offers tips for supporting a person on the spectrum that may be facing life changes.
How Can Doctors Support Patients With Autism? with Dr. Phillip DeMio, of the USAAA and AMAB | EDB 75
(18 mins) In this episode, Hackie Reitman, M.D. speaks with Dr. Phillip DeMio, chief operating officer of the US Autism & Asperger Association (USAAA) and the founder of the American Medical Autism Board (AMAB).
The Importance of Swimming Lessons For Those on the Autism Spectrum
Every child should learn how to swim, but recent studies show those lessons may be even more important for those on the autism spectrum.
Autism Diagnoses and Service Puppies | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 1
(43 mins) In this debut episode, hosts Lauren Gerber Ms. Ed., PSY. D. and Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS share stories about how they became involved in the autism community, and how both make use of canine friends in their every day lives and work.
Sesame Street Welcomes Julia, a Muppet With Autism – Week in Neurodiversity (4/01/17)
(3 mins 25 secs) In this episode, a man uses art to cope with Parkinson’s, a man becomes the first ever table tennis coach with Down syndrome, and Sesame Street introduces the first Muppet with autism! These stories and more in this week’s edition!
Autism in France, with Anlor Davin Author of “Being Seen” | EDB 20
(27 mins) In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with Anlor Davin. Anlor is originally from France, and discusses growing up with autism, and her book "Being Seen."
Link is found between Autism and Synesthesia
Synesthesia and autism researchers at the University of Sussex and the University of Cambridge have found that sensory symptoms of each are often linked.
Woman with Down Syndrome Realizes Dream of Delivering the Weather – Week in Neurodiversity (3/25/17)
(3 min 50 sec) In this episode, Lo Bosworth discusses her depression and anxiety diagnoses, a dance class is helping those with Parkinson’s, and a woman with Down syndrome delivers the weather report in France! These stories and more in this week’s edition!
Oh, The Things You Can Think! Working Together for People with Autism
Denise Resnik discusses the importance of creating supportive environments for people on the autism spectrum.
Teen with Down Syndrome’s Dog Treat Business is a Hit! – Week in Neurodiversity (3/18/17)
(3 min 41 sec) In this episode: an IndyCar driver breaks down concussions, boxing programs continue to help Parkinson’s patients around the country, and a girl with Down syndrome receives a national scholarship after starting her own business! These stories and more in this week’s edition!
Neurodiversity in the Arts: “Mindblind” by Jennifer Roy
Donna Levin reviews Jennifer Roy’s Mindblind, a novel about a 14 year old boy on the autism spectrum, from Skyscape Publishing.
Couple With Down Syndrome Celebrate 22 Years of Marriage – Week In Neurodiversity (3/10/17)
(3 min 48 sec) In this episode, a couple with Down syndrome celebrate 22 years of marriage, a former college football coach helps test a new Alzheimer’s treatment, and a couple with Asperger’s bring out the best in one another! These stories and more in the week’s edition.
Neuropsychology: The Map of the Head and the Benefits of Massage
Giuliana Fenwick discusses neuropsychology, maps out the various sections of the brain that play a roll in what we consider "neurodiversity", and offers some head massage methods she believes can reduce the symptoms of autism and similar diagnoses.
Can Swimming With Sharks Help PTSD? – Week in Neurodiversity (3/04/17)
(4 mins 5 sec) In this episode: a former hockey player talks about living with OCD, a man bikes 4,000 miles for Parkinson’s research, and veterans with PTSD go diving with sharks! These stories and more in this week’s edition.
Neurodiversity and Sleep: Tips for Helping Different Brains Rest
Dr. Ben Weinstock examines the common sleep problems related to neurodiverse conditions, and offers a checklist on to combat those problems.
Creativity on the Autism Spectrum | EDB 71
(24 minutes) In this special episode of Exploring Different Brains, Hackie Reitman, M.D. discusses creativity in people on the autism spectrum with Dr. Ian Hale, Colin Eldred-Cohen, Keri Bowers, Taylor Cross, and Michael Tolleson.
Bridges to Adelphi: A Model for Supporting College Students on the Autism Spectrum
Mitch Nagler discusses Bridges to Adelphi, and the model it has become for services colleges should offer students on the autism spectrum.
A Blood Test for Depression? – The Week in Neurodiversity (2/25/17)
(4min 12sec) In this episode, Lena Dunham demonstrates yoga poses to help with anxiety, an Australian man with autism starts his own business, and a blood test may lead to treating depression! These stories and more in this week’s edition.
New Device Helps People with Asperger’s Interpret Emotions – The Week in Neurodiversity (2/18/17)
(3 min 49 sec) In this episode, a teen with Down syndrome fulfills his dreams of going to college, a new device can help those with Asperger’s detect moods, and Henry Winkler discusses his new book and growing up with dyslexia! These stories and more in this week’s edition.
MIT Reveals Launch of New Autism Research Center
Lisa Yang and MIT alumnus Hock Tan are responsible for the center’s foundation, contributing a generous kick-off commitment of $20 million.
Finding Fulfilling Employment on the Autism Spectrum, with Dr. Stephen Shore | EDB 69
In this episode, Hackie Reitman, M.D.continues his conversation with return guest Stephen Shore, Ed.D.- author, autism advocate, board member for the USAAA and Autism Speaks, and professor at Adelphi University.
Dog Changes the Life of Woman with a TBI – The Week in Neurodiversity (2/11/17)
In this episode, a service dog changes the life of a woman with a traumatic brain injury, a new treatment for Parkinson’s is showing promise, and the cookie saleswoman with Down syndrome will be selling her cookies at the Oscars!
Advocating Autism Spectrum Around the World, with Stephen Shore | EDB 68
(22 mins) In this episode, Hackie Reitman, M.D. welcomes back return guest Dr. Stephen Shore- author, autism advocate, board member for Autism Speaks, and professor at Adelphi University.
Understanding and Supporting Weaknesses in Executive Brain Functioning
Cheryl Checkers, M.S. outlines how weaknesses in the executive functions of the brain can create problems for the neurodiverse, and reviews strategies for how to improve those functions.
Girl With Apraxia Finds Bond With Shelter Cats – Week In Neurodiversity (2/04/17)
In this episode, a student becomes the second contest with Down syndrome to run for Miss Clemson, a girl with apraxia finds a special bond with cats at an animal shelter, and how can a mouth guard give us an inside look at the impact of a concussion?
Doctors Embracing Different Brains, with Steve Sulkes, M.D of the U. of Rochester Medical Center and the AADMD | EDB 67
In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with Steve Sulkes, M.D, the Director of UCEDD/LEND at University of Rochester, and the incoming President of the AADMD.
A Winning Debut for Wrestler with Down Syndrome – Week In Neurodiversity (1/28/17)
In this episode, a teen with Down syndrome wins his high school wrestling debut, students walk for Alzheimer’s in honor of the Pat Summit Foundation, and a have you seen this viral clip of a Parkinson’s patient leading a dance? These stories and more in this week’s episode.
Identifor: Maximizing the Potential of the Neurodiverse, with Steve Keisman | EDB 66
In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with Steve Keisman, the Vice President of Education and Transition & Neurodiversity Employment Specialist for Identifor.
A Boy with Autism and His Four-Legged Best Friend – Week In Neurodiversity
In this episode, Wounded Warrior swim with the dolphins for PTSD, a mother posts a heartwarming video for her son with TBI, and a boy with autism shares a bond with his deaf service dog. These stories and more in this week’s edition!
Reflections on Employment Issues for People with Autism, and Ways to Improve It
Rebecca Witonsky recounts her history as a woman on the autism spectrum seeking employment, and discusses some of the tips others have proposed to improve job prospects for the neurodiverse.
Social Challenges for Women on the Autism Spectrum
Sarah Howard, a woman with autism who wasn't diagnosed until the age of 29, discusses the inherent challenges in facilitating social events for women on the spectrum.
More Big Steps for Individuals with Autism, Families, and Housing in 2017
Denise Resnik discusses First Place Arizona, and how their recent groundbreaking marks a personal milestone of progress for helping people on the autism spectrum achieve independence.
A Dog Surfs For PTSD!? – Week In Neurodiversity (1/7/17)
In this episode, a girl with dyslexia creates a virtual reality program to help her peers, a man with down syndrome inspires others through a fitness class, and Ricochet the surf dog wears a Santa costume for PTSD awareness!
Comedy on the Autism Spectrum, with Colin Eldred-Cohen | EDB 63
In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with Colin Eldred-Cohen. He is the author of "The Fire Truck Who Got Lost,” a movie reviewer, and a young man on the autism spectrum.
Defining Neurodiversity for 2017: It’s Different Brains
In our final blog of 2016, Different Brains founder Hackie Reitman, M.D. discusses the problem of isolation when dealing with a diagnosis, and the way individuals and all of society can benefit when all of us come together for our common goals.
Sensory-Friendly Santa For Kids With Autism – Week In Neurodiversity (12/24/16)
In this episode, kids are meeting Santa in malls all over the country in a sensory-friendly environment, kids with ADHD get to run around to help them learn, and NFL Hall of Famer Charles Haley talks about Bipolar Disorder.
Autism, Predictability, and the Desire for Interpersonal Relations
Eric Zimmerman discusses how a recent trip forced him to expand his horizons, and confront is anxiety.
Robot Helping Children with Autism in the Middle East
An innovative humanoid robot named Milo, released last year to help children with autism, is now confronting neurodiversity in the Middle East.
The Journey Through School and Work of One Young Woman with Autism
In her first blog for Different Brains, advocate Rebecca Witonsky tells the story of how receiving her autism diagnosis changed her life, and her career prospects.
Week in Neurodiversity – Woman with Down Syndrome Starts Cookie Business (12/10/16)
In this episode, CalTeach researchers find a link between Parkinson’s and gut bacteria, Demi Lovato discusses her life with bipolar disorder, and a woman with Down syndrome starts her own cookie business!
Autism / Independence – Do All You Can, While You Can
Amalia Starr tells of how the loss of Brandon, her son with autism, highlights the importance of living life to the fullest.
12-Year Old Quarterback with Autism Leads Football Team to Winning Season
Mason Watson, quarterback of the Goose Creek Small Fry Patriots, has led his team to an 8-3 record and a berth in the playoffs despite only becoming the team’s quarterback after an 0-2 start.
Self-Advocacy on the Autism Spectrum, with Becca Lory | EDB 59
In this episode, Dr. Hackie Reitman continues his conversation with director of development for GRASP (Global & Regional Asperger Syndrome Partnership).
Twenty-five Effective Career Preparations that Promote Autism Spectrum Employment
Dr. Jackie M. Marquette discusses the challenges and methods of helping individuals on the autism spectrum recognize, appreciate, and utilize their unique abilities.
Week in Neurodiversity – Selena Gomez Opens Up About Depression (12/3/16)
In this episode, a rapper with autism releases his debut album, models with Down syndrome have a fashion walk with the stars, and Selena Gomez gives a speech on mental health at the AMAs! These stories and more in this week’s episode!
Week in Neurodiversity – Michael J Fox & Dave Matthews Jam for Parkinson’s (11/26/16)
In this episode, a student with autism becomes homecoming king, “Aspergers Are Us” takes the world by storm in their new documentary, and Michael J. Fox jams with Dave Matthews for a Parkinson’s Benefit!
Week in Neurodiversity – Brain Implants Make Paralyzed Monkeys Walk (11/19/16)
In this episode, a toddler with Down syndrome models for Oshkosh, a boy with autism finds a best friend in his service dog, and brain implants help paralyzed monkeys walk!
Maximizing Educational Success for Different Brains with Lori Bitar | EDB 56
In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with Lori Bitar, educational consultant and author of "SOS: Save Our Students."
Toys “R” Us Creating Sensory-Friendly Shopping for Those with Autism
When you think of Toys “R” Us, it’s unlikely that you are envisioning a relaxed atmosphere for children. However, the toy superstore is currently searching for effective new ways to ensure that those with autism can have a more stress-free shopping experience.
Socializing on the Autism Spectrum with Sarah Howard | EDB 55
In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with Sarah Howard. Sarah is a member of AASCEND, a meet-up group organizer, and an adult on the autism spectrum.
Week in Neurodiversity – Boy with Tourette’s Sings with Carrie Underwood (11/05/16)
In this episode, a woman becomes Argentina’s first teacher with Down syndrome, Louisiana Tech starts a boxing program with Parkinson’s, and a young boy with Tourette’s sings on stage with Carrie Underwood!
SMILE Miracles: Don’t Underestimate Potential on the Autism Spectrum
After three years of operations, Rob & Denise Resnik offer their perspectives on the productive and dedicated SMILE team- a company of talented young people on the autism spectrum.
Gender & Neurodiversity: Recognizing the Diversity Within the Autism Spectrum, with Tania Marshall | EDB 54
In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. continues his conversation with Australian psychologist and award-winning author Tania Marshall.
Week in Neurodiversity – A Therapy Duck For PTSD? (10/29/16)
In this episode, Amanda Seyfried opens up about having OCD, scientists develop a new gene therapy for Alzheimer’s, and have you heard of Daniel the therapy duck?
