In this episode of Helping Families Go Beyond, host Loryn Carpenter welcomes Dr. Kerri Duncan, BCBA, with nearly 40 years of experience in special education, ABA therapy, and parent advocacy. Dr. Duncan explains the Comprehensive Diagnostic Evaluation (CDE), the first crucial step in obtaining an autism diagnosis and accessing therapies. She shares what families should expect from the process, key signs to watch for, and how evaluations can guide access to ABA, speech, and occupational therapy. The conversation also highlights recent challenges with insurance and Medicaid, along with practical advice to help families feel informed and empowered.

Hart 4 Autism Website: https://www.hart4autism.com/

Phone: 239-512-0777

Email: info.hart4autism@gmail.com

Timestamps:

(00:00) School Updates

(01:55) Introducing Kerri Duncan, BCBA, CEO of Hart for Autism

(03:20) What is a CDE?

(06:30) What is the difference between a CDE and a medical diagnosis?

(09:10) What therapies are available once a diagnosis has been made?

(10:10) Is this limited by age?

(13:00) How can a CDE guide the broader support a child might need?

(14:15) What should parents look out for in an evaluator?

(16:45) Signs that might prompt a parent to request a CDE

(20:30) Changes in how the evaluations are being used

(25:20) Recent Medicaid changes

(30:30) Learn more about Hart 4 Autism

(33:50) Requirements states outside of Florida

(35:15) Advice for families

Join us every month for a new episode of Helping Families Go Beyond. Visit beyondthespectrum.org for more information.

In this episode of Helping Families Go Beyond, host Loryn Carpenter sits down with Jack Mills, a graduating senior with the Peabody Academy, to share his story, perspectives, and plans for the future. Jack opens up about his experiences growing up with autism, the teachers and friends who’ve supported him, and the unique talents that shape the way he sees the world. From his favorite classes and community trips to his dreams of becoming a NASCAR driver, lawyer, cruise ship captain, or YouTuber, Jack’s journey is full of determination and self-discovery. His message is clear: autism isn’t a disease, it’s a gift. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation that will inspire families, educators, and anyone who believes in the power of understanding and inclusion.

Timestamps:

(00:00) School Updates and introducing Jack Mills, Peabody Academy Senior

(03:30) Favorite activities with Peabody School and what he’s learned

(04:40) Jack’s unique talents and difficulties

(06:19) Who has helped Jack feel understood and confident in the classroom

(08:10) What do you wish people knew about Autism?

(12:00) What does “working hard” mean to Jack?

(13:00) What Jack is looking forward this school year

(13:50) Graduating and career plans

(15:15) Advice for students starting the school year

(16:10) Jack’s history of schooling

(18:20) Favorite community outings

(20:00) How Jack feels when a schedule changes

(20:45) Traveling

(23:00) Jack’s last thoughts about Beyond the Spectrum

Join us every month for a new episode of Helping Families Go Beyond. Visit beyondthespectrum.org for more information.

In this episode of Helping Families Go Beyond, we talk with Chris Angilella from Chris and the Able Universe. Chris has autism and Asperger's and has developed his skills to write books, create illustrations, and characters. Chris is the proud author of seven books with several more in the making.

Throughout this episode, we discuss Chris’ journey to this point, his interests growing up and how they influence his characters, and what Chris is working on now. Chris shares his interests in animals, specifically from South America, his participation in comic cons, and his continued pursuit of advancing his illustration skills. We also discuss his superpowers, including creating characters and being able to tell you what day of the week you were born on if you give him your birthday. This is an inspiring story for any family member who has somebody with a special ability.

Timestamps:

(00:00) Introducing Chris Angilella of Chris and the Able Universe & School Updates

(03:50) About Chris’ characters from the Able Universe

(07:00) Chris’ character inspiration and illustrations

(10:10) Working at Winn Dixie and how he found the job through Hope Services

(11:15) Chris’ Strengths and superpowers

(12:45) What do you wish people understood about Aspergers?

(17:00) Artists who inspire you

(19:10) Advice for people who have Autism and their family

(23:50) What can schools or communities understand about working with people with Autism?

(29:00) Learning about animals and South American Culture and how it inspires his books

(31:30) Writing new books and going to Comic Cons

(33:30) Touch a Truck Event

(34:45) Journey to get to where Chris is now

(38:10) How can people get in contact with you?

(43:45) Bear and the Big Blue House and having things “click”

(47:00) Sponsorship Opportunities for Chris and the Able Universe

(50:45) Wanting to visit the Nashville Zoo

Join us every month for a new episode of Helping Families Go Beyond. Visit beyondthespectrum.org for more information.