Maisie Soetantyo - The Realities Of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) Therapy | EP9

Early development is a critical time for neurodivergent individuals, and interventions like ABA therapy at a young age can interfere with natural brain development.Warning - this episode contains themes that some individuals may find distressing.In this episode, Jordan James and Simon Scott are joined by Maisie Soetantyo, an openly autistic ADHDer and founder of Autism Career Pathways. They discuss Macy's experience working with autistic children and shares her concerns about the limitations and potential harm of ABA therapy, highlighting the importance of individuality and unique experiences. They also discuss the need for parents to trust their intuition and find affirming approaches to support their autistic children. The conversation sheds light on the misconceptions and language surrounding autism, and the growing movement towards more inclusive and respectful approaches to therapy and support. Maisie introduces her latest project, Guiding Extraordinary Minds (GEM), which aims to provide support and training for autistic professionals, parents, and educators. She also highlights the mission of her non-profit organization, Autism Create Pathways, in reducing barriers at workplaces for autistic individuals.TakeawaysParenting neurodivergent children requires a balance between accommodating their needs and fostering independence.Stimming is a natural and necessary behavior for autistic individuals, and it should not be discouraged or suppressed.Parenting intuitively and problem-solving in the moment is crucial for supporting neurodivergent children.Using affirming language and providing positive information about autism can help individuals embrace their neurodivergent identity and feel empowered.00:00 Introduction03:13 Starting Work with Autistic Children07:25 Turning Away from ABA Therapy12:19 Issues with ABA Therapy31:00 Advocacy and Affirming Approaches33:25 Negative Portrayal of Autistic People in Media34:17 The Damage of ABA Therapy38:39 The Challenges of Advocacy41:25 Accountability and Safe Spaces47:34 Balancing Accommodation and Autistic Identity50:22 Parenting Intuitively and Supporting Neurodivergent Kids56:37 Guiding Extraordinary Minds and Autism Create PathwaysMaisie Soetantyo is an openly autistic ADHDer who has been working with autistic people for over 30 years. She is the founder of a nonprofit in San Francisco Bay Area, Autism Career Pathways. She is also the founder of Guiding Extraordinary Minds (GEM), a platform for autistic folks to guide parents and professionals.Links: https://linktr.ee/maisiesoetantyoWebsite: www.autismcareerpathways.orgWhether you're Neurodivergent yourself, a friend, family member, or simply curious about this extraordinary way of experiencing the world, this podcast is your guide to unravelling The Neurodivergent Experience.Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepodFacebook: theneurodivergentexperienceYoutube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.