Autism Spectrum Disorders

As the mother of two children on the autism spectrum, Melissa has researched the condition extensively. She writes on a variety of autism-related topics include popular autism conferences, treatment and therapy options, the importance of self-advocacy for adults on the autism spectrum, and autism education related issues.

2008 Presidential Race and Autism: John McCain and Barack Obama’s Dedication to Autism Research

Published on the Suite101.com website, 2008 Presidential Race and Autism earned Melissa an Editor’s Choice Award.

For the first time, the two main party candidates running in a Presidential election are taking the time to focus on autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) as part of their campaign platform.

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How to Cope with an Autism Diagnosis: Processing Grief, Autism Support Groups, and Advocacy Efforts

As a parent of children with autism, not a clinician, Melissa’s experience allows her to provide actionable information for other families that are dealing with a new autism diagnosis. In her article, How to Cope with an Autism Diagnosis, Melissa’s professional yet comforting voice allows other families to know that they are not alone in their journey.

Parents that have just heard the words “Your child has autism” can experience a wide range of emotions. From fear to relief and trepidation to panic, all of these fears are normal. Even parents who were expecting to hear those words are left wondering how to cope with an autism diagnosis.

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Autism Homeschooling Resources: Autism-friendly Curriculum, Homeschool Law, and School-based Therapy

Autism Homeschooling Resources provides parents with more information about homeschooling their child with autism. While traditional school-based educational models are the norm, as autism prevalence rates continue to climb, more parents are choosing to homeschool.

When a parent is considering the option of homeschooling her child, finding resources to help can be time-consuming. Whether choosing between a homeschool program and school outside the home or finding an autism-friendly curriculum, having a set of resources together in one readily accessible place makes the entire process easier.