In this episode, Caitlin and Jackie are joined by guest speaker Shadia Hancock (they/them), owner and founder of Autism Actually.

Shadia joins the PiP team to share their lived experience of sensory processing differences, reflecting on how their sensory preferences have shaped participation throughout their life. They discuss the supports and strategies that have been instrumental in enabling participation, and offer thoughtful reflections on how clinicians can continue to support children with sensory processing differences in neurodiversity-affirming ways.

Shadia is the proud owner and founder of Autism Actually and enjoys presenting and consultancy. They are a Certified Practising Speech Pathologist, with a Bachelor of Speech Pathology with Honours, as well as a Certificate IV in Animal Behaviour and Training. Shadia has professional interests in autism, multimodal communication supports, animal-assisted services, and language.

Shadia was formally identified as Autistic at the age of three and later identified with ADHD at 23. They are proudly queer and enjoy discussing the intersectionality of Autism and the LGBTQIA+ community. As an Autistic person with experience accessing therapeutic supports, Shadia is passionate about sharing how to view Autism from a neurodiversity-affirming perspective.

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This podcast is brought to you by Kid Link Occupational Therapy.

We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and live here in Mitcham, Victoria. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and recognize their ongoing connection to the land, waterways, and culture. As we support children and families, we are inspired by the wisdom and care that First Nations peoples have shown for generations.

Music by Daniel Pavey

Produced by Michael Daniels

Relevant Episode Links:

• Autism Actually: https://www.autismactually.com.au/

• Autism Actually Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autismactuallyau

• Yvonne Mann, assistance dog and therapy dog trainer, owner of Busimann’s Dog Training: https://www.busimannsdogtraining.com.au/.

• Lisa Robinson, owner and founder of Assistance Paws Australia: https://assistancepaws.com/index.html.

• Autism LEVEL UP!: https://www.autismlevelup.com/