Kristina DesJardins wrote the book titled "Autism: Life in the Prism" where she recounts her experience as an individual diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and offers useful tips to cope with some of its symptoms. She currently works with children with special needs at St. Dominic Savio Academy in Chandler, Arizona. Her dedication to sharing her story in an effort to shine light on the autistic experience is truly inspirational. Kristina's book can be found here: https://www.amazon.com/Autism-Life-Prism-Kristina-Desjardins/dp/1956110062

This is a conversation with Dr. Tiffany Garner. Tiffany is a part owner of the group practice Heartwood Psychology in Baltimore, Maryland. We covera wide variety of topics including the diagnosis of autism, autism's neurological basis, managing the entire range of the spectrum, autism in the public eye, and more. Tiffany's genuine passion for her work shines through our conversation and should serve as a personal marker to which we should all aspire in our careers.

In this episode, I speak with Sal Benitez. Sal was a physical education teacher at the Harbour School for six years where he worked with students with intellectual disabilities. We cover his goals as a special needs educator, managing expectations vs. pushing for progress, the societal misunderstanding of those with special needs, and tailoring education for the individual. Sal’s level of empathy and respect for the special needs community is something we should all strive for, and his passion for education shines through his simultaneously meaningful and funny anecdotes.

Welcome to The SNAP! Tune in to hear meaningful conversation regarding the care of those with special needs. Thanks for listening!