Welcome to Autism Conversations, which was designed to provide families, caregivers, and individuals with autism with accessible support and information to assist them through their journey.
For more information regarding these podcasts, and/or if you would like access to additional resources and supports, please check out the Autism Programs’ portal: https://cdd.health.unm.edu/autismportal/
You can also send us an email at AutismConversations@salud.unm.edu
📻 Siste episoder av Autism Conversations
Her er de nyeste episodene tilgjengelige via RSS-feeden:
The Impact of Bullying: Signs & Self-Care Strategies for People with Autism (00:50:36)
Have you ever experienced bullying? Do you remember how you felt? Our latest podcast focuses on bullying towards people with autism and IDD, which is often subtle and may go unnoticed. Our guests discuss several red flags to look for such as emotional changes, withdrawal, physical marks, and shifts in daily routines. Being able to recognize bullying is not always easy for those with autism and IDD. Take a few minutes to listen to the conversation, and learn the necessary steps to navigate the challenges associated with bullying, while building resilience.Resource:Transcript
Normalizing Self-Care for Healing (00:47:04)
Here’s an idea! Select an activity that you enjoy and carve out a window of time in your day to do it. When you do this, you are allowing yourself to slow down and check in on yourself. Once you are done, you will feel refreshed! Now you are ready to continue with your day. What is this practice? It’s called self-care! It is a simple thing to do daily, and it will provide benefits on many levels. However, reality is that we live in a competitive world that forces us to constantly keep busy. We have turned a simple practice into an overly complicated thing. In truth, it’s incredibly easy to master the practice of self-care. A great way to get started on your self-care journey is by listening to this episode of Autism Conversations, as we speak with three guests on how they maintain a regular practice of self-care in an overly busy culture. Let’s begin!Resources:Transcript
New Mexico LEND: Program Perspectives (00:32:44)
We are proud to share this podcast with you, as it provides insight into the Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (LEND) Program for the state of New Mexico. The conversation focuses on how this program has expanded trainees’ knowledge and experience regarding public policy, legislative advocacy and so much more even beyond graduation. The shared purpose of graduates is to continue to make a valuable advancement in advocacy. This podcast essentially highlights how graduates of the LEND Program go on to make a difference in their community. If you are interested in participating in this life-changing program and you live outside of New Mexico, there are 60 LEND programs in the United States. We encourage you to seek a LEND program near you!Resources:New Mexico LEND Flyer
NM-ABC: Support for Providers to Improve Youth Mental Health Care (00:31:39)
During this conversation, you will learn about the foundation and history of the New Mexico Access to Behavioral Health for Children Program (NM-ABC). In 2004, it was recognized that there was a massive shortage of pediatric mental healthcare specialists in the country and, specifically, the State of New Mexico. The staff of NM-ABC has been incredibly effective in making a difference. The discussion includes how the NM-ABC staff offers consultations, training and resources, which connect primary care providers with specialists that are experts in the field of mental healthcare. There are 49 of these state programs, two tribal nation programs, five U.S. territory programs and one in Canada. Our hope is that pediatricians from all over the world are able to connect with their own version of this network of Pediatric Mental Healthcare access programs. We are confident that you will agree that your mental health is just as important as your physical health.Resources:TranscriptNM-ABC Consultation Service FlyerNM-ABC Training and Professional Development Flyer
The Importance of Voting – The Accessible Voting Process (00:26:24)
This conversation focuses on numerous ways to support people with disabilities to have access to voting, which is a privilege for all Americans. Enjoy the conversation while learning about the ease of registering to vote, absentee ballot requirements, and accommodations that have been made available online through the local Poll Workers’ guide. Many accommodations were discussed in detail including adaptive voting machines, curbside voting, and transportation to the polls. Specific requirements have also been made available to ensure that voters have privacy and autonomy. All of these amenities are provided so that everybody can insert their ballot to be read and counted. Remember that your voice matters and your vote counts!Links:How to Vote in New MexicoVoting Resources
NM START: Supporting Individuals with Autism to Manage Critical Situations (00:22:04)
What do you do if you or a loved one with autism and other mental health needs comes across a situation that is we talk with the lead team of New Mexico START. A New Mexico evidence-based, community crisis prevention and intervention service that provides the necessary supports for individuals to successfully manage challenging life experiences due to mental health conditions.Join us as we go in-depth with the team’s backstory on what they do to provide services in the disability community. Get personal insights and successes they have encountered through NM START. We believe this conversation will encourage you to reach out if you need a strong support system.Links:NM START Referral Flyer
Panel Discussion: Living Your Best Life! (00:57:34)
This is a special recording of a panel discussion of the Imagine Autism Virtual Workshop that focused on Adult Life, which was hosted by the Autism Programs at the UNM Center for Development and Disability. Six autistic adults share their own experiences about their diagnosis of autism; life with friends, family and general social relationships. The conversation touches on employment and housing, and what would have been helpful to know when younger.
Self-Advocates and Employment (00:40:57)
Getting a job is an exciting process for anyone. It is the beginning of a new chapter in a person’s life, as individuals get out into the community and build life skills. Autonomy includes making money and being able to manage it towards short/long term goals. Being able to access things that you desire and/or need gives you a sense of gaining independence. For individuals with autism, it can be exciting, overwhelming and scary at the same time. Our facilitator has an incredible discussion with three autistic self-advocates. Listen to how they share their personal insights and wisdom regarding the process of getting a job, and the obstacles they faced along the way. Please join us in this discussion and learn about the ups and downs we all face when it comes to getting a job, and the responsibilities associated with the process whether or not you have autism.
Expectations of a Parent – Fathers Navigating the Autism Journey (00:53:08)
On this episode of Autism Conversations, our facilitator leads an incredible discussion with three fathers who share their perspectives and share advice regarding their child’s journey. In this podcast, the fathers discuss the diagnosis of autism and how they have navigated service systems. They share heartfelt discussions on how they received valuable support along the way from their loved ones. The support was necessary to get them through the challenging times, as well as sharing in the celebration of triumphs. The information the fathers share on how to be a successful advocate for your autistic child is beneficial in supporting those making the same journey. We believe you will enjoy this podcast that is full of hope and encouragement. Please take a listen and join us in this beautiful conversation of a father’s perspective of their family’s autism journey.
Self-Advocates and Transition to Adulthood (01:27:53)
We proudly present our latest podcast, which addresses transitioning into adulthood. We all go through transitions in life. Let’s listen to the personal journeys of four autistic self-advocates who share things they wish they knew, as they themselves transitioned to adulthood. While uniquely their own, together, their stories will offer insights and opportunities for learning, and we hope that this conversation will support you on your own journey.
The Autism Journey: Self Advocate Stories of Living With Autism (01:01:56)
March 17, 2023 - The value of a shared story is immeasurable. In this episode of Autism Conversations, we hear from four autistic self-advocates who graciously share their personal stories and advocacy insights. Please join us for this opportunity to listen and learn from these honest voices and powerful stories.
Caregivers and Transition into Adulthood (Part 1) (00:44:36)
We are proud to present this podcast, which addresses transitioning into adulthood. We all go through transitions in life. For young adults on the spectrum, some just happen to require a bit more work and persistence. Please join us as we share some inspiring stories from the caregiver’s point of view and how their resilience proved to be successful in their child’s journey of navigating life into adulthood.
Increased Computer Usage during COVID. How is it Affecting Families with Autism? (00:42:27)
This podcast focuses on the importance in maintaining a healthy balance of social activity outside the virtual world of technology for individuals with autism. Please join our Facilitator, Debra Montana, and her guests as they share a powerful conversation that includes creative ideas and strategies to help our loved ones with autism. Debra’s special guests include Dr. Mary Rice, Professor of Literacy in the Department of Language, Literacy and Culture at the University of New Mexico. Megan Garrigan, BCBA with Prism Autism Services, Family Leader, Advocate and a graduate of Partners in Policymaking. Diana Stone, Family Leader, Advocate, Founding Member and Events Chairperson at Elevate the Spectrum and a graduate of Partners in Policymaking and Rolanda Maez, Board Certified Behavior Analyst with Prism Autism Services, Family Leader, Advocate and graduate of Partners in Policymaking. This discussion focuses on the importance of recognizing how the heavy use of electronics affects families living with autism, and ways to incorporate strategies in maintaining a healthy balance of socializing outside the use of technology. Listen to how you can successfully support your loved ones and create ways to socialize together outside of the virtual world of technology.
The Importance of Exercise, as an Evidence-Based Practice, for Individuals with Autism (00:27:28)
This podcast addresses the importance of consistent exercise and activity for a healthy lifestyle for individuals with autism. Please join our Facilitator, Jayme Swalby, as she has an informative discussion with UNM Health Education Consultant, Lauren Lewis, Education Consultant, Felicia Nevarez and Autism Programs administrative staff member and self-advocate, Marit Rawley. This discussion focuses on ways to incorporate wellness and fitness to maintain a healthy weight, reduce stress and/or anxiety while increasing social connections for those living with autism. Listen to how you can set yourself up for success. Be consistent, start small and make a joyful movement that will make you feel good!
Family Disaster Plan for Families Living with Autism (00:40:28)
This podcast focuses on how to plan and have items you may need in the event of an emergency while being respectful of special considerations for our family members with autism. Please join our Facilitator, Jayme Swalby, as she has a conversation with Lisa McNiven with the New Mexico Governor’s Commission on Disability, Roselyn Cintron and Barbara Ibanez, Health Educators with the Autism Programs. This discussion focuses on addressing necessary advanced planning for families living with an individual diagnosed with autism. Preparation is key in the event of a disaster. Learn how to have a conversation with your family that includes what is important for each individual member to take; listen and respect each other’s perspective. Take note and make a list of what is needed for your GO BAG. Be prepared and be safe.
Siblings, COVID and Autism: Finding a Balance (00:32:53)
This podcast addresses issues that our siblings of children with autism have to face during a pandemic. Please join our Facilitator, Debra Montana and her podcast partner, Jayme Swalby, as they share a conversation with Psychologist, BCBA and lecturer at the UNM College of Education, Dr. Megan Martins; family leader, advocate and Coordinator of Recreational Services of the Autism Programs, Mariah Montoya; and a previous graduate of Partners in Policymaking, a UNM Occupational Therapy Graduate Student, family leader, and advocate, Marissa Swalby. This discussion focuses on addressing several issues that siblings face when attempting to balance self-care and support for their siblings with autism spectrum disorder. We understand and agree that during a pandemic, everything feels much more difficult to balance. Listen to how this amazing group of professionals discuss not only how to address those issues, but they compassionately remind us of ways to practice self-care and to be more patient with ourselves.
Understanding Guilt in Parents of Children with Autism (00:47:35)
This podcast addresses various complex factors that trigger feelings of guilt in parents with autism. Please join our Facilitator, Lauriann King, and her guests: Social Worker, Tory Everhart; Dr. Julia Oppenheimer, Director of ECEP and family leader, advocate and Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Amy Hall Rodriguez. This conversation focuses on addressing several issues that cause parents to have feelings of guilt. We can all agree that during a pandemic, everything feels much more challenging. Listen to how this group of professionals discuss not only how to address those issues, but they compassionately remind us all that we are all doing the best we can.
Staying Connected Through Technology During a Quarantine (00:22:28)
This podcast addresses inquiries from various communities in New Mexico. Facilitator, Debbie Montana, and her guests Senior Program Therapist, Jayme Swalby; Education Consultant, Kayla Tuton; Technical Analyst II, Michael Riblett and family leader and advocate from Elevate the Spectrum, Kristina Martinez, respond to feedback received by the community regarding creative ways to stay connected through technology during this climate. As the coronavirus forces us to stay at home, this lack of in-person human contact can cause concerns around mental health due to stress and isolation. Staying connected can be challenging for families living with autism. That factor coupled with social distancing, connection can be more problematic. However, there are many creative and fun ways to stay connected. Reach out and connect with someone today!
A Different World Awaits Re-Entry Considerations Post Quarantine (00:44:51)
We are pleased to present our podcast, which addresses inquiries from various communities in New Mexico. Facilitator, Lauriann King, and her guests Dr. Seema Jacob, Dr. Peggy Maclean, Education Consultant, Felicia Nevarez and Counselor/Social Worker, Dana Demos-Curtis address real life concerns from people just like you. Listen how this group of professionals discuss the how parents of children with autism are facing anxieties and fears associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. Listen on how they problem-solve issues related to mask wearing, social distancing, isolation and loneliness in this informative podcast. Our incredible team of professionals also address concerns related to children with autism that have weakened immune systems that are considered high risk.
Social Distancing: What does it mean for Navajo Families? (00:33:20)
We are proud to present our latest podcast, which specifically addresses inquiries from our Native American communities. You will not want to miss this informative discussion. Facilitator, Jayme Swalby, Speech Language Pathologist, Christine Vining, Social Worker, Kristy Adakai-Tinney and Program Specialist, Lyn Wilson-King address inquiries from the Native communities and discuss the effects of social distancing, which is part of the new normal. Listen to how the practice of social distancing may not be effective in all cultures and learn the reasons why in this informative podcast. This is an opportunity to grasp the real challenges that are part of a larger picture. Tune in and learn how the lack of infrastructure for native communities makes it impossible to handle this nationally widespread virus.
Wait, I’m Not a Therapist! Balancing Telehealth Services and Home Life: Part B (00:05:31)
Presenters Jayme Swalby, Gay Finlayson and Lisa Kalberg focus on the many challenges faced while balancing working at home and providing therapy to a child with autism, which is part of learning how to exist in the worldwide new normal. Albeit challenging, we are all doing the best we can juggling different roles at the same time in one place…home. Listen how the presenters discuss prioritizing your own mental health and self-care in order to be more effective, which includes being kinder to yourself and remembering that we are all doing the best that we can.
Wait, I’m Not a Therapist! Balancing Telehealth Services and Home Life: Part A (00:18:04)
Presenters Jayme Swalby, Gay Finlayson and Lisa Kalberg focus on the many challenges faced while balancing working at home and providing therapy to a child with autism, which is part of learning how to exist in the worldwide new normal. Albeit challenging, we are all doing the best we can juggling different roles at the same time in one place…home. Listen how the presenters discuss prioritizing your own mental health and self-care in order to be more effective, which includes being kinder to yourself and remembering that we are all doing the best that we can.
Decreasing Stress While Living with Autism and Social Distancing (00:38:26)
Facilitator Jayme Swalby and her guests, Dr. Mary Beth Graham, Dr. Michelle Iemolo, Dr. Seema Jacobs and Occupational Therapist, Kristen Red-Horse discuss a common denominator that most families are facing in current times…stress exhibited while living with autism. A quote stated during the discussion sets the tone for this informative podcast – It’s not what’s wrong with you. It’s what’s happening to you.” We can relate to various stressors such as changes in routines, not being able to access therapies face-to-face, but most of all from feeling a loss of control and not knowing what the future holds. We can all take something meaningful from this enlightening podcast. The most important thing for our loved ones with autism is to engage together in family activities that are simple, light and fun for everyone.
Navigating Relationships: From Friendships to Romance (00:43:53)
This podcast is a collaboration with Otero County Advocates for Developmental Disabilities to provide direct supports to their local community. Jayme Swalby, our facilitator leads an informative conversation with panelists Thea Kavanaugh, Certified Health Education Specialist; Natalie “Nan” Kossar, Special Education Teacher; Michael Swalby, Self-Advocate; and Laurel Deans, Self-Advocate at the New Mexico DDPC Planning Council. Their discussion focuses on the need for understanding and appreciating the differences between friendships and romantic relationships. We are reminded that we are all sexual beings; it is normal to have thoughts, feelings and desires. Listen to this profound discussion on the importance of providing safe opportunities to respectfully and properly model communication about mutual trust, intimacy, boundaries and expectations with your loved ones with autism.
Stress, Mental Health and Coping: Embracing community and finding understanding (00:30:13)
We are proud to present this podcast, which is in direct support and collaboration with the Deming, New Mexico community. Lyn Wilson-King, our facilitator, and the panel, Dr. Ann Branscum; counselor and social worker, Dana Demos-Curtis; and education and outreach manager, Lisa Kalberg share in a discussion that focuses on managing priorities by weighing what is most important for you and your child. Trusting instincts and trusting yourself is key when moving forward with balance for a family living with autism spectrum disorder. This group of professionals give us permission to seek the simple yet effective ways of supporting ourselves and our family, in an effort to cope with stressors.
