The Tale of Two Attorneys: A Journey through Loss, Grief, Severe Depression, and Recovery
This powerful post is written by Anne F. Downey, Esq., a former BigLaw lawyer, now recently retired, who reflects on her husband’s sudden death during heart surgery, and the grief, depression, treatment, and recovery that followed. Content Warning: This post contains discussions of suicidal ideation. Reader discretion is advised. If you or someone you know […]
“Do I have an inner critic?”
She went off on herself last night: “The biggest interview of your life and you blew it to smithereens. He didn’t like you, and neither did I. You’d better double down on making yourself marketable — or else.” You may be asking yourself, “Do I have an inner critic too?” The interplay between the experiencing […]
Caps, Gowns, & Breakthroughs – Why High School Graduation Hits Different for Teens with Autism in 2026
Caps, Gowns, & Breakthroughs – Why High School Graduation Hits Different for Teens with Autism in 2026 top of page bottom of page
What Is a BCBA? Why This Credential Matters for Toddler ABA Therapy
Why is a BCBA Important in ABA Therapy? A BCBA, or Board Certified Behavior Analyst, is a graduate-level professional certified in behavior analysis. According to the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst can provide behavior-analytic services and supervise professionals who implement behavior-analytic interventions. In ABA therapy, the BCBA is usually responsible for […]
CNTR Responds to Proposed OMB Rule that would Politicize Science – Coalition for National Trauma Research
CNTR’s Comment on Proposed OMB Rule: Regulation for Federal Financial Assistance (OMB-2026-0034-0001) The Coalition for National Trauma Research (CNTR) appreciates the opportunity to comment on the Office of Management and Budget’s proposed revisions to 2 CFR Part 200, “Regulation for Federal Financial Assistance.” CNTR is a national nonprofit research organization dedicated to advancing trauma research […]
What’s it like to be homeless? | 2
He thought it could never happen to him. But with a shock and awe strike, it sure did. And when the smoke cleared, he was all questions: “Should I be afraid?” “How could you let it happen?” “What’s it like to be homeless?” Then he just sat, shaking his head. Three things cannot long be […]
How We Make Learning Fun for Your 2-Year-Old
How Play Builds Communication Communication does not begin with full sentences alone. For a 2-year-old, communication may look like reaching, pointing, handing an item to an adult, using a picture, making a sound, signing, saying one word, or combining words. Play-based ABA therapy can support each of these steps. A therapist may hold a favorite […]
From One Giant Chapter to the Next
For many autistic and neurodivergent children, moving from elementary school to middle school, or from middle school to high school, can feel like stepping into a giant new world. New teachers, bigger buildings, changing routines, and increased expectations can create excitement, but they can also bring anxiety. For autistic students, these transitions may feel even […]
ABA Therapy for Speech Delay: Help Your Toddler Communicate
These skills are often connected to Verbal Behavior Therapy, an ABA approach that focuses on language as the child uses it. For example, a word is not only important because a child can say it. It is important because the child can use it to ask for something, respond to someone, share attention, or participate […]
Simple ways to manage grief in daily life
Grief follows its own schedule. One day, you might answer emails, make dinner and think you’re doing OK. Next, a familiar song in the grocery store or an empty chair at the table can stop you in your tracks. Let’s review some simple ways to manage grief. Grief is a shapeshifter. Some days it may […]