Autism Unmasked

Episode 6: Community, Care, and Connection - Conversations on Mental Health

Join us this month as we dive into mental health challenges and autistic burnout and how community and connection can help individuals struggling with these challenges. We talk with 'She'EO of Spectrum Success 911, Michele Abraham-Montgomery and her son who is a Community Autistic Peer Specialist for the Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services about their personal and professional experiences with mental health and burnout.
For more resources on mental health and autistic burnout, visit our website at paautism.org or check out some of our resources listed below.
Mental Health Resource Collection
Be Well, Think Well Resources
Processing Emotions and Relaxation Techniques

Episode 5: Unpacking Food and Fear - ARFID and The Autistic Experience

Content Warning: This episode of our podcast and posts related to it focus on eating disorders and restrictive eating.
In this episode, Unpacking Food and Fear: ARFID and the Autistic Experience, we talk with therapist Brittany Ashmore about ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder), misconceptions around eating sensitivities, understanding why ARFID may occur and much more.
If you are looking for more resources on food sensitivities and eating disorders, check out the links below or go to our website at paautism.org to view hundreds of resources on a variety of topics.
Going to a Restaurant Social Story
Tips for Food Selectivity
ASSIST: Autism Sensory Strategies, Information, and Toolkit
 

Episode 4: Neurodivergent Friendships, Social Energy and Finding Your People

Join our hosts as they talk about friendship wins, struggles and finding connection. With guest, Jason Layton, a psychology student, our interview focuses on managing your social battery, creating connections in ways that feel comfortable to you and learning what social interactions you enjoy most. 
If you are looking for more resources on creating friendships and finding connection, check out the links below or go to our website at paautism.org to view hundreds of resources on a variety of topics.
 
ASDNext Community Page (Games, Discord, Trivia and more!)
Sensory-Friendly Events
Social Events and Meeting People Resource Collection

Episode 3: Diagnosis Journeys - From Self-Discovery to Support

Join us this month in talking about the autism diagnosis journey and what happens afterwards. We meet with psychiatrist, Dr. Keely Hirsch to discuss topics like, what the process looks like, common challenges, diagnostic tools and criteria, ways to be supportive as a family member or friend and more! 
If you are looking for more resources on the diagnosis process, check out the links below or go to our website at paautism.org to view hundreds of resources on a variety of topics.Understanding Autism Evaluations Resource
Resources for a Newly Diagnosed Individual
 

Episode 2: Accommodations and Executive Functioning

In our first full-length episode of Autism Unmasked, we’re breaking down the process of requesting accommodations at school, at work, and beyond. Our guest, Autumn Reely, Director of Special Education and Student Services for the Camp Hill, PA School District, shares practical tips, real-world examples, and advice to help you navigate each stage of life.

Episode 1: Welcome to Autism Unmasked

Get to know your hosts and the heart behind Autism Unmasked. In this short intro episode, we’re laying the groundwork—why we started this podcast, who it’s for, and what kinds of conversations you can expect. Whether you’re autistic, a self-advocate, a family member, or someone eager to learn, there’s a seat for you here.