An Introduction to Autism

Episode 1If you are new to Therapeutic Pathways or considering services from us, this podcast will help you understand our approach. Listen to Cynthia Owens, BCBA, Director of Clinical Operations and Development, and Coleen R. Sparkman, CCC-SLP, President talk about how Therapeutic Pathways will work with your child and family to develop an individualized treatment approach that supports independence and growth. You will also learn something about the treatment strategies and team members who deliver and support treatment.

Episode 9My Life With AutismWhat will life look like for my autistic child?It’s a fear every parent has. In this episode, we check in on Ethan Willform, a 19-year-old thriving as an adult with autism. After years of treatment, he has learned valuable skills that help him navigate a neurotypical world. We even hear some of the music he wrote and produced.Ethan is a great guy, with a great story of inspiration and normalcy - whatever “normal” means.

Ep 8; Autism Rates Have Doubled In The US, Why?Some people think the rate of Autism should be considered an epidemic. Others think that is too strong of a reaction, but one thing is for sure, Autism is way up. We talk to Nancy Fellmeth from FEAT.org, an Autism advocacy group that he been concerned with Autism since 1993. 

Ep 7How Do I Communicate With My Autistic Child?Changes in communication are one of the first signs of autism. You know how important communication is in a relationship and that people with autism might communicate differently. Nuances non-autistic people might pick up on in conversation seem invisible to people on the spectrum. In this episode, autism communication expert Colleen Sparkman shares proven techniques for communicating with others who might be non-communicative. It is a powerful and necessary tool.

Ep 6Living With AutismWhat kind of life can I expect for my child with Autism?That's the most common question and fear parents have.In this episode, we talk to Carolynn, a mom, and her 20-year-old son Lucas about what it was like for him growing up with autism, and what life is like now living as an adult with autism.You’ll love this family, just like we do.

Episode 5What Are The Challenges, Barriers, and Success With Autism?What difficulties will your child face learning with autism?In this episode, we meet Peter Gerhardt, who has been teaching kids with autism for over 40 years. He is a remarkable warrior with unique experience in educating kids who learn differently. Peter shares great stories that prove kids with autism may learn differently, but they do learn!

Episode 4What Are The Best Treatments For Autism?Why does my child have autism?Can vaccines cause autism?Did I do something to cause my child to have autism?These are all common questions parents and caregivers have about autism. The internet rabbit hole of information on autism and treatment only confuses us. What is the best path to take? We talk to two experts with decades of success in autism treatment and learn definitively about best practices.

Episode 3What Do I Do If I Think My Child Might Have Autism?This is a scary time for moms and dads. If you think your child has autism, there are things that you can do immediately to improve a child’s quality of life. In this episode, we talk to a mom with two kids with autism and learn about her journey. She will also share some solid dos and don'ts for navigating this challenging time.

Episode 2What Are The Signs Of Autism?This is a show for parents who think their child might be showing signs of autism. It is a compassionate, evidence-based series that provides hope and guidance.You’ll learn about the signs your child might have autism, and how early diagnosis and treatment lead to the best outcomes. You’ll also hear from some of today's best experts in the field, whose mission is to help families with autism. Plus, young adults share what their life looks like living with autism. This series is hosted by Gene Gates, an award-winning broadcaster and journalist, and produced by Dr. Jane Howard and Coleen Sparkman from Therapeutic Pathways.Episode 1: What Are The Signs My Child Has Autism?