SummaryIn this episode of Health Power, Lisa Davis hosts a conversation about autism and neurodiversity with Christine Romeo, the mother of Abby from Love on the Spectrum, and Janella, a member of the autism community. They discuss the confusion around terminology and labels in the autism community, the challenges faced by individuals with different support needs, and the bullying and negativity experienced by parents and individuals on the spectrum. They also touch on the importance of recognizing sensory issues and the need for accommodations and services for individuals with autism. The conversation explores the challenges and misconceptions surrounding autism, particularly in terms of support and understanding. The guests discuss the impact of language and labeling on individuals with autism and the need for more specific and nuanced terminology. They also highlight the importance of representation and support for different types of learners within the autism community. The conversation emphasizes the need for a more inclusive and comprehensive approach to autism diagnosis, treatment, and education. The conversation explores the use of video modeling for individuals with autism to improve social skills and understanding. It emphasizes the importance of creating support systems and resources for individuals with autism, especially those with low support needs. The conversation also touches on the need for organizational and life management support, such as navigating airports and understanding social cues. The speakers discuss the potential benefits and limitations of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy and highlight the importance of understanding and accepting neurodiversity. They address the challenges of black and white thinking within the autism community and the need for more representation and nuance in discussions about autism.Keywords: autism, neurodiversity, support needs, sensory issues, accommodations, bullying, autism, support, language, labeling, misconceptions, representation, neurodivergent, neurotypical, social skills, education, video modeling, social skills, support systems, resources, low support needs, organizational life management, airports, social cues, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, neurodiversity, black and white thinking, representation, nuanceTakeawaysThe autism community is diverse and includes individuals with different support needs and presentations.There is confusion around terminology and labels in the autism community, and it is important to use language that is respectful and specific.Sensory issues are a significant aspect of autism and should be recognized and addressed.Parents and individuals on the spectrum often face bullying and negativity, especially online.There is a need for more understanding, compassion, and accommodations for individuals with autism. The language and labeling used to describe autism can have a significant impact on how individuals with autism are perceived and supported.There is a need for more specific and nuanced terminology to accurately describe the different traits and experiences within the autism community.Representation and support for different types of learners within the autism community is crucial for creating inclusive environments and providing appropriate interventions.The education system should adopt a more comprehensive and individualized approach to support students with autism, taking into account their unique strengths and challenges.Understanding and empathy are essential in promoting acceptance and inclusion for individuals with autism. Video modeling can be an effective tool for individuals with autism to improve social skills and understanding.Creating support systems and resources is crucial for individuals with autism, especially those with low support needs.Organizational and life management support can help individuals with autism navigate everyday tasks and situations.Understanding and accepting neurodiversity is ess