Autism Life Today

In this episode of Autism Life Today, we sit down with Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Brooke Oltsik to break down the realities of ABA therapy—what it is, how it’s evolved, and how it’s helping families every day.Brooke shares her unique journey from special education teacher to BCBA, giving insight into both the school system and clinical care. We dive into the biggest misconceptions about ABA, the shift toward play-based and naturalistic learning, and why today’s ABA looks very different from the past.Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or someone exploring a career in the field, this conversation is packed with real, practical guidance.💡 In this episode, we cover:What ABA therapy actually is (and what it’s NOT)The difference between clinic-based and in-home therapyHow to choose the right ABA provider for your childWhy some people have negative views on ABA—and what’s changedThe roles of BCBAs, RBTs, and behavior techniciansHow ABA supports real-life skills like communication, independence, and daily routinesThe emotional side of working in autism careWhy it’s never too late to start ABA therapyMost importantly, this episode is about hope.If you’re a parent navigating autism, you are not alone—and there are people and tools that can help support your journey.👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who needs it.#Autism #ABATherapy #SpecialNeeds #BCBA #AutismSupport #Parenting #AutismAwareness

In this episode of Autism Life Today, we sit down with master-level occupational therapist Courtney Bunch to break down what occupational therapy really is—and why it plays such a critical role in supporting children with autism and other special needs.From understanding the root causes behind developmental challenges to taking a truly holistic approach, Courtney shares how occupational therapy goes far beyond surface-level goals. We dive into how OT supports everything from sensory regulation and motor skills to communication and daily life independence.You’ll also learn: • The difference between home-based vs. clinic-based therapy • Why finding the “why” behind behaviors changes everything • How OT works alongside speech and physical therapy • The importance of parent involvement for real progress • Real-life stories and experiences from the fieldWhether you’re a parent, caregiver, or just learning about autism services, this episode gives you practical insight into how occupational therapy can make a lasting impact.👉 Have questions or need guidance? Don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to help.Don’t forget to like and subscribe!

In this powerful episode of Autism Life Today, we sit down with Cricket Barrientos, founder of Sounds of Autism, to explore the evolving reality of autism care—from early childhood through adulthood and beyond. Drawing from her personal journey as a mother of a 23-year-old son on the spectrum, Cricket shares the often-overlooked challenges facing individuals with “middle-functioning” autism—one of the most underserved populations today.  The conversation dives into critical topics including the lack of post-graduation support, the connection between undiagnosed autism and vulnerable populations, and the urgent need for better systems of care.  Cricket also highlights groundbreaking work being done through Sounds of Autism, including first responder training programs, crisis intervention initiatives, and community-based solutions designed to support individuals and families at every stage of life.  At its core, this episode tackles one of the most important—and emotional—questions families face: What happens when we’re no longer here to care for our loved ones?  This is a conversation about awareness, responsibility, and building a more compassionate and prepared future for the autism community.

In the very first episode of Autism Life Today, Ryker sits down with his wife, Tori, to share the deeply personal story of their family’s autism journey.From the first signs of regression at 18 months, to sleepless nights, aggressive behaviors, school battles, caregiver challenges, and moments of complete exhaustion, this episode gives an honest look at what life can be like for families raising a child with severe autism.Together, Ryker and Tori open up about the realities many parents face but few talk about—the emotional toll on marriage, the impact on siblings, the fight for proper care, and the constant balancing act of protecting your child while trying to preserve your family.But this conversation is also about hope.Through faith, persistence, and relentless advocacy, they share how they found breakthroughs, support, and strength in the middle of some of the hardest seasons of their lives.Whether you are a parent, caregiver, professional, or simply someone wanting to better understand the autism community, this episode offers real stories, practical insight, and encouragement for the journey.Topics Covered in This Episode: • Early signs of autism regression • Parenting through severe behaviors • Autism’s impact on marriage and family • Advocating for your child in the school system • Crisis care and inpatient treatment • Medication, therapies, and medical advocacy • Faith and finding hope through the hardest momentsIf this episode speaks to you, be sure to subscribe to Autism Life Today for more real conversations, expert insights, and stories from the autism and special needs community.#autism

Contact Dr. Mitchell at: [email protected]  In this powerful episode of Autism Life Today, we sit down with Dr. Ken Mitchell—a naturopathic doctor with decades of experience—to explore a side of autism that many families have never been told about. Dr. Mitchell shares his deeply personal journey as a father. After his son experienced a sudden regression, he refused to accept a “wait and see” approach—and instead went on a mission to uncover the root causes behind his child’s condition. What followed was a path into biochemistry, detoxification, co-infections, and a completely different way of looking at autism. 👉 In this episode, we cover:The connection between autism and underlying health factorsCo-infections, immune dysfunction, and environmental triggersDetox vs. “depuration” (and why it matters)Hyperbaric oxygen therapy explainedThe importance of treating root causes—not just symptomsPractical insights for parents navigating this journeyAnd most importantly… we share a story of hope. Dr. Mitchell’s son—once struggling with severe symptoms—went on to earn his black belt, learn multiple languages, and complete a master’s degree in mechanical engineering. If you’re a parent, caregiver, or someone seeking answers, this episode offers a new perspective and a reminder that progress is possible. 🙏 If this episode resonates with you, please like, share, and subscribe to help us reach more families.👍 Like & Subscribe for more real stories and expert insights📤 Share this with a parent who needs hope💬 Comment your biggest takeaway