#low-masking

Here's an autistic teen girl with a neurodiversity-affirming therapist! This therapist encourages her to stim freely, unmask when safe, assert herself, and respect herself along with respecting others.

Sometimes the term "neurodiversity-affirming" is used as a buzzword, representing neurodiversity lite rather than genuine support and inclusive practices. But when done right, it can make a real difference.

Yes, she's nonspeaking and she drools. No, that doesn't mean she doesn't think. So here's her dad working on teaching her to use an AAC app on her tablet so she can communicate more!

AAC isn't magic. Some people struggle to use it and put their thoughts into words. For some people, it takes a lot of work. But communication is a human right, and this girl deserves support learning how to say things with more than gestures.