Autism Unmasked

Emergency medical visits can feel overwhelming, especially for autistic individuals and their families. In this episode of Autism Unmasked, we talk with emergency physician Dr. Arvind Venkat about navigating emergency care, communication strategies in fast-paced medical settings, and ways to prepare ahead of time. We also share advocacy tips and resources to help make emergency experiences more supportive and predictable. Have a question you want us to answer? Connect with us through our contact form here: https://paautism.org/contact/  For more resources related to medical visits and emergency care, visit our website at paautism.org or check out some of our resources listed below. Medical Social Story Collection Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder: For Emergency Personnel Emergency Responder Notification Forms The Importance of Completing a Premise History Form

The start of a new year often comes with pressure to change or reinvent ourselves, but what if January could be about curiosity instead of expectations? In this episode of Autism Unmasked, we’re joined by two guests from All In Theatre, an all-inclusive theatre company creating accessible, welcoming spaces for people of all abilities. We talk with the founder of All In Theatre and a stage manager who is neurodivergent and a wheelchair user about what it really means to try something new without pressure. Together, we explore how creativity and theatre can support self-expression, confidence, self-regulation, and a sense of belonging, especially for autistic and disabled individuals. This conversation centers on the idea that everyone deserves the permission to try at their own pace. For more resources on trying new activities, supporting new skills and more visit our website at paautism.org or check out some of our resources listed below.   Teaching New Skills Community Involvement Finding Activities in Your Community  

Join us this month as we dive into mental health challenges and autistic burnout and how community and connection can help individuals struggling with these challenges. We talk with 'She'EO of Spectrum Success 911, Michele Abraham-Montgomery and her son who is a Community Autistic Peer Specialist for the Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services about their personal and professional experiences with mental health and burnout. For more resources on mental health and autistic burnout, visit our website at paautism.org or check out some of our resources listed below. Mental Health Resource Collection Be Well, Think Well Resources Processing Emotions and Relaxation Techniques

Content Warning: This episode of our podcast and posts related to it focus on eating disorders and restrictive eating. In this episode, Unpacking Food and Fear: ARFID and the Autistic Experience, we talk with therapist Brittany Ashmore about ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder), misconceptions around eating sensitivities, understanding why ARFID may occur and much more. If you are looking for more resources on food sensitivities and eating disorders, check out the links below or go to our website at paautism.org to view hundreds of resources on a variety of topics. Going to a Restaurant Social Story Tips for Food Selectivity ASSIST: Autism Sensory Strategies, Information, and Toolkit  

Join our hosts as they talk about friendship wins, struggles and finding connection. With guest, Jason Layton, a psychology student, our interview focuses on managing your social battery, creating connections in ways that feel comfortable to you and learning what social interactions you enjoy most.  If you are looking for more resources on creating friendships and finding connection, check out the links below or go to our website at paautism.org to view hundreds of resources on a variety of topics.   ASDNext Community Page (Games, Discord, Trivia and more!) Sensory-Friendly Events Social Events and Meeting People Resource Collection

Join us this month in talking about the autism diagnosis journey and what happens afterwards. We meet with psychiatrist, Dr. Keely Hirsch to discuss topics like, what the process looks like, common challenges, diagnostic tools and criteria, ways to be supportive as a family member or friend and more!  If you are looking for more resources on the diagnosis process, check out the links below or go to our website at paautism.org to view hundreds of resources on a variety of topics. Understanding Autism Evaluations Resource Resources for a Newly Diagnosed Individual  

In our first full-length episode of Autism Unmasked, we’re breaking down the process of requesting accommodations at school, at work, and beyond. Our guest, Autumn Reely, Director of Special Education and Student Services for the Camp Hill, PA School District, shares practical tips, real-world examples, and advice to help you navigate each stage of life.

Get to know your hosts and the heart behind Autism Unmasked. In this short intro episode, we’re laying the groundwork—why we started this podcast, who it’s for, and what kinds of conversations you can expect. Whether you’re autistic, a self-advocate, a family member, or someone eager to learn, there’s a seat for you here.