Dr. Mary Barbera, RN, doctoral-level behavior analyst, best-selling author, and online course creator discusses autism and speech delays from several different ...
#308: What is Autism in 2025? Understanding the Spectrum
Dr. Mary Barbera discusses what Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) looks like in 2025, breaking down its definition, rising prevalence, causes, and early signs. She goes over the diagnostic process, common controversies, and the power of early intervention in supporting children on the spectrum. She also touches on the controversial topics in the autism community—such as changing definitions, acceptance vs. awareness, and the lifelong impact of autism.
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30:52
#307: AngelSense for Families with Autism and My Experience
Dr. Mary Barbera shares her personal journey with autism safety and introduces an incredible tool that has transformed the way families like hers protect their loved ones—AngelSense. Joined by fellow BCBA and mom, Melissa Schiefelbein, we discuss how AngelSense's GPS tracking and safety features help prevent elopement, enhance independence, and provide peace of mind. From real-time tracking to two-way voice communication, AngelSense can support children and adults with autism, special needs, or dementia.
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33:31
#306: Adulthood Begins in Preschool: Adaptive Skills for Autism with Peter Gerhardt & Shanna Bahry
Dr. Mary Barbera covers the role of adaptive skills in creating meaningful futures for individuals with autism. In this conversation with Dr. Peter Gerhardt and Dr. Shanna Bahry, we talk about the importance of focusing on these skills from an early age, especially in the preschool years. We will go over how to set meaningful goals, teach life skills for independence, and balance academic progress with essential self-care tasks. Dr. Gerhardt shares insights on how adaptive skills can pave the way for greater autonomy, while Dr. Bahry explains the pivotal age of 10 as a time to assess developmental paths.
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31:50
#305: Virtual Autism Evaluation: Reducing Autism Evaluation Wait Times with Dr. Cheryl Tierney
Dr. Mary Barbera discusses how virtual autism evaluations are helping reduce the long wait times for diagnoses, with insights from Dr. Cheryl Tierney, a board-certified developmental pediatrician. Dr. Tierney talks about her work at Meliora Health, which offers virtual autism and ADHD evaluations in multiple states. With waitlists stretching up to two years, virtual evaluations provide a faster, convenient option for families. There is a high importance on thorough assessments, what tools are used, and how to choose the right provider. See how virtual evaluations can open doors to early intervention and better outcomes for children.
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45:32
#304: Teaching Prepositions to Children with Autism: 3 Mistakes to Avoid
Teaching prepositions to children with autism or speech delays can be challenging, especially if introduced too early. Dr. Mary Barbera goes over three common mistakes parents and educators often make when teaching prepositions, like "in," "on," and "under." Learn how to avoid these pitfalls and set your child up for success with clear, structured approaches and practical strategies.
Dr. Mary Barbera, RN, doctoral-level behavior analyst, best-selling author, and online course creator discusses autism and speech delays from several different angles for both parents as well as medical, educational, and behavioral professionals. Learn more at www.marybarbera.com.
Each week we discuss Mary’s 4-step proven approach to tackle common parenting struggles including how to improve talking, reduce tantrums, and improve picky eating, sleeping, potty training and so much more for kids with and without autism!
Topics also include what to do when a toddler is delayed and how to identify the earliest signs of autism, ADHD, sensory processing disorder, or even giftedness! And what to do if your child is diagnosed or requires early intervention or ABA therapy.
So, whether you're a parent of a child or a professional such as a behavior analyst, nurse, physician, speech pathologist, or teacher, you’re going to want to listen and subscribe!
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