#305: Virtual Autism Evaluation: Reducing Autism Evaluation Wait Times with Dr. Cheryl Tierney
Release Date: 12/10/2024
Turn Autism Around
Feeling overwhelmed by behavior challenges in your classroom or at home? In this video, we’re diving into practical, real-life strategies from Behavior Breakthrough by Bailey Payne—a must-read for parents, teachers, and therapists working with kids who have autism, ADHD, or developmental delays. Bailey, a behavior analyst and clinical psychologist, breaks down 12 foundational ABA principles in a way that’s approachable and impactful. We’ll explore key ideas like the First-Then Contingency (Premack Principle), the difference between reinforcement and bribery, and how to shift your focus...
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Join Dr. Mary Barbera for an inspiring conversation with three incredible autism advocates: Kate Swenson of Finding Cooper’s Voice, Adrian Wood from Tales of an Educated Debutante, and Carrie Cariello. We dive into their powerful new book Autism Out Loud: Life with a Child on the Spectrum from Diagnosis to Young Adulthood, where they share deeply personal stories of raising children with autism. Through their diverse experiences, they provide insight into topics like caregiving, anxiety, independence, and the unique challenges of young adulthood. This conversation offers support and valuable...
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Dr. Mary Barbera discusses practical strategies for expanding intraverbals, feature function class (FFC), and language skills in children with autism or speech delays. Learn effective techniques to improve your child’s conversational abilities, including using songs, real-life objects, and category-based language building. Dr. Mary Barbera also covers fluency training and how to integrate language practice into everyday activities. These actionable steps will help move your child forward in language development.
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Dr. Mary Barbera shares five key lessons she has learned from working with high-wealth families navigating autism. These insights are applicable to all parents, regardless of financial status, and offer strategies for managing an autism diagnosis, implementing therapy options, and addressing problem behaviors. Dr. Barbera also explains the creation of her High Touch Coaching program, a personalized, hands-on support system that bridges the gap between learning and real-world application for families seeking individualized guidance. See how you can move forward in your autism journey with...
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Dr. Mary Barbera and Julie Matthews, a leading expert in autism nutrition, discuss the critical connection between nutrition and autism management. With over 22 years of experience, Julie shares insights on how diet can significantly influence behavior, cognitive function, and overall well-being for children with autism. She covers the importance of gut health, inflammation, and mitochondrial function, as well as practical dietary tips for parents looking to make positive changes. Julie also highlights research on therapeutic diets and shares actionable steps for creating a nutrition plan,...
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Dr. Mary Barbera sits down with Kaelynn Partlow, an autistic therapist, author, and advocate, to discuss her inspiring journey from being diagnosed with autism at age ten to becoming a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) and public speaker. Kaelynn shares her experiences navigating the challenges of autism, her work at the Project Hope Foundation, and how she uses social media to advocate for inclusion and understanding. She also discusses her new book, Life on the Bridge, her appearance on Netflix's Love on the Spectrum, and her views on ABA therapy. Listen as we explore Kaelynn’s...
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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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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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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...
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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...
info_outlineDr. 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.