UNITING AUTISTIC WOMXN TO SAVE AUTISTIC WOMXN
Founder of the largest online site for Autistic people of color, Autastic.com, Diane will lead us in a celebration of our community as we come together for the first time en masse as Autistic women and non-binary people ready to celebrate our united power and work together toward real change in how Autism is viewed in our country.
Diane J. Wright is the voice behind Autastic.com and the first Disability Fellow at the University of Michigan's Center for Racial Justice (CRJ), housed within the Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy at the University of Michigan. In 2018, after learning she's AuDHD, she founded Autastic.com. The Autastic communities have grown to be minority-lead initiatives that provide vital resources and community to thousands of late-identified autistic adults. Autastic holds some of the only spaces dedicated to autistic people of colour and is the only resource of its size founded by a woman of colour.
Jennifer Cook was identified as being on the spectrum in 2011. An autism advocate, on-camera expert for Netflix’s triple-Emmy-Award-Winning “Love on the Spectrum US," and star of Joey Travolta’s upcoming “Lights, Camera, Friendship!,” she is the author of nine bestselling books, available in eight languages – including the foundational The Asperkids (Secret) Book of Social Rules, ground-breaking memoir Autism in Heels, and newest My Friend Julia: A Sesame Street Book About Autism. Among her titles are a Wall Street Journal Bestseller, Autism Society of America’s Book of the Year, a Publishers Weekly “Best Book” title winner, and six of BookAuthority's
“Best-Selling," “Best Memoir” and “Top Autism Books of All Time” picks. Jennifer is an alumna of Brown and Columbia Universities. She sits on the Autism Society of America’s Council of Autistic Advisors, consults for Congress’ Autism Research Panel, and is a multi-award-winning international presenter who has spoken everywhere from the White House, to the National Institutes of Health, to royal audiences in Europe. In her work, she helps unzip hidden social rules for neurodiverse people of all ages, coaching them toward more connected, fulfilling lives and relationships. Jennifer is based in Charlotte, NC.
Dr. Angel Durr
In this talk, we’ll explore the detrimental effects of masking in the autistic community, particularly for POC autistic women. Through personal narratives and practical strategies, attendees will learn how to unmask and decode societal expectations, empowering them to embrace their authentic selves and navigate the world with confidence and pride.
Dr. Angel Durr
Join us for a deep dive into strategies for overcoming imposter syndrome as an autistic woman, with a focus on the unique challenges face by POC autistic individuals. Through candid discussions and practical techniques, attendees will gain valuable insights and tools to navigate their careers paths with confidence and authenticity, embracing their strengths and accomplishments along the way.
Dr. Angel Durr, a globally recognized keynote speaker, shares an inspiring narrative that intertwines entrepreneurship, tech innovation, and artistic passion. With a diverse background spanning data science, systems automation, and application development, her journey began with early entrepreneurial ventures and a deep involvement in technology, fueled by pivotal experiences on the Obama campaign trail. As one of the youngest leaders in her field, Dr. Durr has continually pushed the boundaries of innovation, pioneering virtual operations and digital-focused automation strategies.
As a mother, professor, and corporate leader, Dr. Durr's story of resilience and determination resonates with audiences worldwide. Beyond her professional accomplishments, she is a dynamic force in the arts, with a background in acting, modeling, and musical theater.
As a global keynote speaker, Dr. Durr brings her unique blend of expertise and passion to the stage, captivating audiences with her insights on technology, diversity, and innovation. Her engaging presentations inspire change and empower individuals and organizations to embrace diversity and drive meaningful transformation.
Mary P Donahue, PhD
Alexithymia appears in roughly 50% of the autistic community. In any population, alexithymia affects processing of emotions and body sensations. This leads to difficulty in describing or expressing emotions, as well, which can adversely affect all areas of life. Autistic individuals with alexithymia are more prone to thwarted belonging, higher degrees of negative emotions, lower levels of empathy, and greater difficulty receiving medical or mental health care. This presentation will introduce attendees to alexithymia, how it can affect lived experience, and potential treatments.
Mary P Donahue, PhD
Quality of life is significantly influenced by the company we keep. Far too often, autistic individuals report feeling disconnected or rejected by the world around them. This presentation discusses what relationships really are as well as strengths and barriers to healthy interactions. We will also touch upon exploitation and maladaptive components of “fitting in.”
Dr. Donahue earned her doctoral degree in Counseling Psychology from the University at Albany, State University of New York. She maintains a clinical practice specializing in autism, grief and trauma with both adolescents and adults. Dr. Donahue works extensively with domestic and dating abuse, in both clinical and forensic atmospheres. She and her family work and play worldwide while living happily in Southern Maine.
Carole Jean Whittington
You've mastered how your energy goes out, now it's time to master how it flows in for you in a fun, light and easy way. Tap into areas of your energy you never thought of or realized before in this playful and energizing session that will leave you with a tool kit to your energy that you can use throughout the conference and beyond.
Carole Jean Whittington
Replaying that conversation in your head. Looking at it from every angle to make sure you didn't "misunderstand" or not get what they weren't saying aloud, sometimes years later this is still playing through your head and you don't have an answer yet. Discover the communication styles and elements of mixed neurotype communication no one ever tells you and stop the guess work and begin enjoying the fun of connecting with others in a way that feels good and works best for you.
Carole Jean Whittington is a trailblazer in the wellness space, dedicated to guiding those who are experiencing burnout to be Energy Masters so that abundant energy is their daily norm. She is the author of, “Unleashing Sustainable Energy” and host of the popular podcast, Beyond Chronic Burnout. As the Chief Energy Officer of Whittington Well-Being, her company stands out as one of the only companies providing a methodology focusing on chronic burnout for minds of all kinds.
Ludmila Praslova, PhD
In this session, Ludmila will discuss how to craft work to fit who we are and how to let go of the zero-sum mentality that often ends in frustration for both you and your employer. She will also talk about how to find joy in the workplace and how to identify and create win-win situations. As she covers in her LinkedIn newsletter, "The Best Work for Your Brain," she will further delve into focusing on your unique strengths, interests and values; the role of job crafting in our individual success and motivation in the workplace; and the costs of dissatisfaction, burnout, and turnover to organizations. As important, you will also learn how to communicate this win-win message to your organization, co-workers, and boss.
Ludmila is an organizational psychologist and author of the upcoming book, "The Canary Code: A Guide to Neurodiversity, Dignity, and Intersectional Belonging at Work." She is also the editor of “Evidence-Based Organizational Practices for Diversity, Inclusion, Belonging, and Equity,” and a regular contributor to the Harvard Business Review (HBR) and Fast Company. She is the first person to have published in the HBR from an autistic perspective. She teaches graduate Industrial-Organizational Psychology students at Vanguard University of Southern California to create vibrant and inclusive work environments and, as a consultant, provides neuroinclusion training and support to organizations like MIT, Amazon and Bank of America.
AJ Locashio, M.Ed, BCC, BCCS, CSC
We dive deep into the concept of "vanilla sex" for individuals who identify as autistic, non-binary, transgender, and genderqueer. We'll embark on a journey of self-discovery, equipping you with the tools to have open and honest conversations with your partners about desires and boundaries. Explore the vast spectrum of fulfilling romantic connections, and discover how to create joy and intimacy, including for those who identify as asexual in relationships.
AJ Locashio, M.Ed, BCC, BCCS, CSC
Embark on a journey of self-discovery within the realm of kink for autistic, non-binary, transgender and genderqueer folks. This workshop explores harnessing sensory experiences, fostering curiosity in a safe space, and navigating kink with open communication and informed consent. Join us as we delve into the unique aspects of kink exploration within these diverse communities.
AJ Locashio (she/they) is a passionate advocate for neurodivergent (ND) individuals, particularly focusing on community supported self-advocacy and economic security within the community. Known for her multifaceted approach, AJ juggles various roles and titles, earning them the nickname, "the intersectional octopus." She is the founder and Executive Director of Umbrella US, a Wichita, Kansas, based non-profit organization. They are a professionally licensed teacher and educator, a Board-Certified Coach, and a Board-Certified Clinical Sexologist, specializing in supporting multiply marginalized individuals including ND, LGBTQ+, and military folks. Additionally, AJ is a Sensory Environment Strategist. Through their diverse expertise and enthusiasm, AJ aims to support autistic folks on their journeys towards self-awareness and sustainable fulfillment.
Lisa Morgan, M.Ed, CAS
Suicidal ideation is a dark place. It makes you feel like you have one foot in this world and one foot in the next. In this session, you will learn ways to keep yourself safe from these ruminating and intrusive thoughts and hear the personal experiences of others, including Nigel Rising, Esq. You will also learn how to pull yourself out it using practical tools and techniques, such as how to reframe internal dialogues.
Lisa Morgan, M.Ed, CAS
PTSD triggers are everywhere and anxiety is a faithful, albeit unwelcome companion, to those triggers. Both cause feelings of angst, impending doom, and panic. The autistic mind then ruminates on all these thoughts and it becomes difficult to calm them down. This session will look at PTSD and anxiety through an autistic lens and provide practical solutions for managing the effects on daily life.
Lisa Morgan is a trauma-informed consultant specializing in crisis supports and suicide prevention for autistic people. Lisa is founder and co-chair of the Autism and Suicide Prevention Workgroup and has led the development of several autism specific resources for communicating and supporting autistic people in crisis. A self-advocate with a passion for strengths-based solutions, Lisa has authored several books, articles, and resources all available on her website: www.autismcrisissupport.com. She is a community council member of AASET (Autistic Adults and other Stakeholders Engaged Together). Lisa has a master’s degree in the Art of Teaching, is a Certified Autism Specialist, a research consultant, researcher, and owner of Lisa Morgan Consulting LLC. She is graduating with her Master of Social Work degree in August 2024.
Camil Aponte, PhD
In this talk, I will explore how technology can empower and support autistic individuals, from communication aids to sensory regulation tools. I'll provide practical tips and tricks on using these technologies effectively, emphasizing their potential to improve our quality of life in a neuronormative society.
A multiple neurodivergent individual born and raised in Puerto Rico, I am deeply dedicated to education, advocacy and mentorship. With over 17 years of experience in academia and curriculum development, I am firmly committed to supporting my community and addressing the critical need for neurodiversity education. I'm passionate about fostering neuroinclusive environments and empowering individuals and organizations to embrace neurodiversity and achieve their full potential.
Dr. Mary Doherty
Session description coming soon.
Dr. Doherty is a Consultant Anaesthetist and autism researcher. She founded Autistic Doctors International, which brings together autistic healthcare providers who are dedicated to improving healthcare for autistic people and improving work life for autistic healthcare providers.
Pasha Marlowe, MFT
"Unmasking Relationships" is an exploration into the intricacies of forging genuine and authentic connections with other people. With a particular focus on the experiences of late-diagnosed autistic women and non-binary folks, this session delves into the relationship dynamics across various spheres, including intimate partners, friends, children, family and co-workers. From trauma triggers to deciphering social cues to managing sensory sensitivities and meltdowns, understanding the intricacies of these challenges is crucial for fostering empathy and supportive connections. Through Pasha’s lived experience stories as a queer, disabled, AuDHD woman and mother, as well as case studies from her 30 years of experience as a therapist and coach, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the nuanced experiences of autistic people in their relational journeys.
Pasha Marlowe, MFT, is a marriage and family therapist turned neurodiversity speaker, consultant, and coach. She is a neurodivergent mother of 3 neurodivergent children and was raised in a neurodivergent family. In their coaching work, Pasha focuses on neurodivergent couples, specifically around issues of communication and intimacy. In their consultation and consulting work, they specialize in presenting to organizations on how to create non-performative cultures of neuroinclusion. Pasha is passionate about inclusive language, neuro-diversity and gender-affirming practices, and neurobelonging (a word she coined and trademarked and the name of her upcoming book). She is the host of "Neuroqueering" and the author of "My Next Husband Will be a Lesbian."
Candice Christiansen, M.Ed, LCMHC
As Autistic adults we experience sensory responses to various environments which can occur across multiple sensory domains (visual, taste, touch, sound). Our sensory responses are often characterized by hyperreactivity, hypo-reactivity, and sensory seeking behavior and impact our ability to connect with others, complete tasks and function well in the world around us. Creating supportive sensory soothing environments in all environments is foundational for ensuring Autistic adults thrive! In this presentation, learn ways to create the most supportive sensory soothing settings for Autistic adults to feel calm, supported and successful.
Candice Christiansen, M.Ed, LCMHC
There has been a long-held assumption that Autistic individuals lack empathy and that this negatively impacts our relationships. However, many Autistic individuals DO demonstrate empathy, just differently than the “neuro-majority”, which focuses on “cognitive empathy” as the norm. Many of us demonstrate empathy via somatic, affective, or responsive empathy. Weaving in Autistic University of Kent Researcher Damian Milton’s Double Empathy Problem, we will explore the various ways that Autistic adults demonstrate empathy, including the importance of understanding our way of expressing empathy as a means of improving communication and connection in relationships.
Candice is the Founder and Clinical Director of an internationally known holistic healing center, Namaste Center For Healing. As such, she manages an expert clinical and holistic team that provides intensive therapeutic support to individuals and couples wanting to heal from complex trauma caused by intimate betrayal, substance abuse and other addictive behaviors. She is passionate about her own neuro-difference and is actually in a mixed neurotype relationship. She has co-developed a neuro-inclusive approach to IFS for adults seeking to learn how to improve their connections and communication, heal trauma and enjoy more sacred intimacy. She also consults with families and offers life skills to older neuro-different teens and adults.
Virginia Spielmann, PhD
Join us for an enlightening session dedicated to empowering autistic women through the understanding of sensory triggers. Drawing upon the principles of sensory integration theory, we will explore the unique sensory experiences that shape our lives. This session will guide you through the process of identifying your personal sensory triggers, understanding their impact, and developing strategies for creating a supportive environment that honors neurodiversity. Attendees of this session will be equipped with the knowledge to recognize and articulate your sensory needs and foster a deeper connection with yourself and the world around you.
Virginia Spielmann is an Occupational Therapist and the Executive Director of STAR Institute for Sensory Processing in Denver, Colorado. She is a published author in multiple papers and chapters. An experienced international and TEDx speaker, she consults on TV and media projects; co-founded & authored the Critical Core therapeutic role-playing game; and co-developed the Palaana sensory lounger with SLACK Lifestyle.. She obtained her Ph.D. in Infant and Early Childhood Development with an emphasis on mental health, from Fielding Graduate University. Dr. Spielmann will share insights and tools that respect individual differences, promote autonomy and self-actualization, and enhance quality of life.
Danielle Sullivan
After receiving an adult autism diagnosis, many folks experience joy that they finally have words for their experiences. Others feel angry that it took so long or feel lost and ashamed due to internalized ableism. In this session, we will talk about what it's really like to be late-identified and how to start rebuilding our identity to put our authentic selves forward after diagnosis.
Danielle Sullivan
"Autistic inertia" describes the idea that autistic people often get stuck when we have to transition from one task to another. In this session, we’ll talk about why this happens and how to stop it from getting in the way of enjoying our lives.
Danielle Sullivan is the owner and founder of Neurodiverging Coaching. She is a Certified Life Coach, Certified Solution-Focused Coach, Certified Positive Psychology Coach, Certified Transformational Coach, Certified Parent Coach, a certified Trauma-Informed Education Specialist. She is also a graduate of the Neuroscience Academy and holds a B.A. degree from Temple University and an M.A. degree in women and gender studies. She was diagnosed autistic around age 30 after her eldest child was also diagnosed. In looking for resources for herself, she found very little, and began producing the Neurodiverging Podcast to try to develop and offer resources for others like her and who have kids like hers. Danielle is agender, polyamorous / ethically non-monogamous, and queer, and is dedicated to providing a safe space for growth and discovery for folks and families of all kinds and configurations.
Jessica Hicksted, PhD
This session highlights the strengths and resilience of autistic women, emphasizing the importance of supporting and uplifting each other. Through personal experience and research Dr. Hicksted shares her experience as an Autistic woman, focusing on the significance of celebrating successes and sharing coping strategies to empower one another.
Dr. Jessica Hicksted is an AuDHD woman with a PhD in Industrial Organizational Psychology and a champion of workplace inclusivity. Her groundbreaking work includes the development of a pioneering survey about the stigma surrounding invisible disabilities. By dissecting acceptance, ableism, and advocacy, Dr. Hicksted sheds light on dynamics affecting disclosure decisions in professional settings. Her research not only exposes the barriers faced by individuals with invisible disabilities but also unveils pathways to positive change.
Shannan Palma, PhD
In this session, Dr Palma will talk to us about how research is conducted and, more importantly, how Autistic women can play a bigger role in decision-making around research that affects us. Find out who is studying what and from where funding money is coming. Learn how to identify, find and support actually Autistic researchers and avoid participating in research studies that do not take Autistic voices into consideration.
Shannan Palma, PhD, is cofounder and co-Executive Director of the nonprofit Autistic Self-Reliance Support Network, where she advocates for autistic perspectives to be embedded in autism research, and founder and CEO of Independence Through Interdependence Assistive Technologies Inc., a tech company leveraging generative AI to provide effective, adaptive support to autistic adults. She works with an all-neurodivergent team across both organizations to #FlipThePowerDynamic in Autism research and funding.
Founder of Sensory Gated Art®️, Amanda Hebert Hughes, will give a special talk about how being her authentic, autistic self was what unlocked a new genre of art. She will explain how Sensory Gated Art is a window into the autistic world, validate the sensory overload experience with her audience, and explore why sensory processing is so important to neurodivergents.
Amanda is an openly autistic fine artist because she believes that is what it takes to change a culture, and ultimately - the future. She will also join us as a career panelist - as an autistic woman working in a professional field. Amanda Hebert Hughes is the artist of the AustisticaPalooza 2024 commemorative painting: "Autistic Women Emerging". Prints and posters will be available to purchase through the event platform.
Visit www.SensoryGatedArt.com to explore this autistic-founded art genre.
Amanda Hebert Hughes, a New York native, is an openly autistic painter and author living in Charlotte, North Carolina. Having an active, neurodivergent mind, she is the founder of a new art genre: Sensory Gated Art®️. Using her unique painting style, Amanda creates paintings that remove sensory overload stimuli, resulting in a calming effect. She is also the author and illustrator of the children's book series, Why Does Mommy Say. Using first-person perspective, Amanda connects the dots for young minds between love and healthy boundaries.
Autistic self-advocate Sarah Nannery recently co-authored the book What to Say Next: Successful Communication in Work, Life and Love with Autism spectrum Disorder along with her husband, Larry Nannery. In their book, they share their journey through Sarah’s adult diagnosis of autism at the age of 31, their experience as a neurodiverse couple and parents of neurodivergent children and much of Sarah’s early career communication challenges and learnings. Sarah is the Director of Development for Autism Initiatives at Drexel University in Philadelphia, and Larry is a technologist by trade and communication specialist by interest and necessity.
Together, they work hand-in-hand to help build a bridge between “neurotypical” and “neurodivergent” communication styles and needs, while remaining (mostly) sane as the parents of two young children. They speak regularly about Autism and their personal and professional experiences. In addition to their book, Sarah is also a contributor to Psychology Today, The Mighty, Mind Body Green, Parentology, and other online and print publications.
You can find out more about the couple on Sarah’s website, www.sarahnannery.com, or by following her on Instagram or Twitter @sarahnannery.
PANELISTS:
Sarah (A) & Larry Nannery
Nigel Rising, Esq(A) & Jen Renfrow
Join marriage and family therapist and relationship coach, Pasha Marlowe (she/they), for a panel discussion on Autistic/Allistic Relationships. You will hear lived experience stories and tips from couples Larry and Sarah Nannery and Nigel Rising, Esq. and Jen Renfrow (see their director bios at About AWE). Autistic partners require clear boundaries and consent, patient communication and active listening, empathy, and extra compassion around topics of intimacy, sensory overwhelm and transitions. This inclusive discussion will be trauma and LGBTQIA+ informed.
PANELISTS:
Ludmila Praslova, PhD
Sarah Nannery
Join Ludmila and Sarah as they discuss prior work experiences with Allistic bosses - both good and bad. We will talk about the impact a boss can have on your career, the impact an Autistic person can have on her boss and how the Autistic/Allistic work environment can be managed and improved. We will also talk about when it's time to leave a job and how to handle moral injury situations without quitting on the spot!
PANELISTS:
Sarah Nannery
Nigel Rising, Esq.
Join Sarah as she talks about her experiences and advice raising Autistic children as an Autistic mom. Nigel will talk about how important her service dog, Kirby, is to her and how important service animals and pets of all kinds are to many Autistic people. For many of us, our pets are our main source of affection - both giving and receiving - and, thus, play a key role in helping us with isolation and loneliness. In this session, human and pet children are on equal par!
PANELISTS:
Dr. Rachel Bedard
Lara Schaeffer
Join Nigel is she explores the differences between mental health professionals and life coaches with respect to helping Autistic people. What can one do but not the other? What licenses does each require? What training does each profession require? What is the difference in cost and is insurance accepted for treatment? How often should each be seen? Get answers to these questions and many more during this informative session!
Sara Bradford is an Autistic woman, life coach and advocate. She is the CEO of SJ Childs LLC, an Autism consulting business created to support families. She is also a member of the Autism Council of Utah and the owner of the Autism Advocates Support Group on FaceBook. She is the mother of two Autistic children whom she parents with her husband, who is also Autistic! Host of The SJ Childs Show Podcast, she also speaks nationally and internationally on Autism issues.