When people talk about autism, they often picture boys—because statistically, boys are more likely to be diagnosed. But what about the stories we don’t hear as often? The ones about girls? About the unique, often overlooked journey of a mother and her daughter? In Part 3 of our special series on Autism and Girls, Kat Lee welcomes RDI® Consultant and parent Lisa Malone for a profoundly moving conversation about her daughter Elliot’s story. If you’re a parent navigating your own journey—or just want to better understand the inner world of autistic girls—you won’t want to miss this episode. You’ll walk away reminded that growth is possible, connection can be created, and the story is still unfolding. Learn more about the RDI® approach and connect with an RDI® Program Certified Consultant here: https://www.rdiconnect.com/about-rdi/ Listen to our two previous episodes about Autism and Girls here: https://www.rdiconnect.com/tag/girls-and-autism/

The RDI® Process: Not a Quick Fix When your child is struggling, it's natural to seek quick fixes. But what if the key to long-term success lies in something deeper? In this episode of Autism: A New Perspective, host Kat Lee sits down with RDI® consultant and parent Lisa Palasti to explore the powerful concept of "process over product." Check out this full episode to discover how focusing on process over product can unlock your child's potential. Parents, you are not only capable but uniquely positioned to guide your children toward meaningful progress. You just need the right support. Learn more about the RDI® approach and connect with an RDI® Program Certified Consultant here: https://www.rdiconnect.com/about-rdi/

What if, instead of seeing autism as something to "fix," we affirmed the intrinsic value of our children and supported them in discovering their unique path? In our latest episode of “Autism: A New Perspective,” Dr. Rachelle Sheely, president of RDIconnect®, joins host Kat Lee to share a deeply compassionate and hopeful perspective on neurodiversity. From the very beginning of their work, Dr. Sheely and Dr. Steven Gutstein have believed that autistic children are not "strange" or "broken"—they are simply children navigating a world that often feels overwhelming. Dr. Sheely emphasizes the power of staying curious, both about our children and ourselves as parents, and how creating a supportive environment can unlock their potential in ways we may not yet see. Check out this conversation for a reminder that growth is always possible, and your child’s story is still unfolding—on their own terms, in their own time, and with your unwavering support and affirmation. Curious to know more about what makes RDI® different? Find out more and connect with an RDI® Program Certified Consultant here: https://www.rdiconnect.com/about-rdi/

In this episode of Autism: A New Perspective, Dr. Steven Gutstein explores what it truly means to prepare your autistic child—or yourself—for a fulfilling, dynamic life. What happens when external supports, like developmental milestones or structured environments, are no longer there? Will your child or the individuals you work with have the tools to thrive independently? Dr. Gutstein discusses the importance of fostering agency and self-confidence in autistic individuals, focusing on lifelong growth rather than just external achievements. He explains how the Relationship Development Intervention (RDI®) approach empowers individuals to grow, adapt, and thrive—not just for today, but for the rest of their lives. Curious to know more about what makes RDI® different? Find out more and connect with an RDI® Program Certified Consultant here: https://www.rdiconnect.com/about-rdi/

Despite the abundance of research and data, the autism field often fails to ask the most crucial question: What’s actually working for individuals and their families? Instead, many traditional approaches focus on teaching isolated skills and calling it success—even when those skills don’t lead to a better quality of life. In this episode, Kat Lee talks with Steven Gutstein, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer and creator of RDI®connect, about the future of autism treatment. Together, they challenge outdated methods and present a hopeful vision for 2025. Change in the autism field has been slow, but Dr. Gutstein sees hope for a breakthrough. More families and professionals are seeking approaches that prioritize long-term progress over short-term fixes. RDI® remains a groundbreaking approach in a field that often feels stuck. Instead of offering quick fixes, RDI® fosters ongoing development, helping autistic individuals connect more deeply with their world in meaningful and lasting ways. If you’re searching for a fresh approach to autism, this episode is for you. Curious to know more about what makes RDI® different? Find out more and connect with an RDI® Program Certified Consultant here: https://www.rdiconnect.com/about-rdi/

When Failure Leads to Curiosity Failure, of course, is important. Scientists have found that our ability to remain engaged, despite the experience of uncertainty, is primarily responsible for the growth of higher level neural functioning and neural integration. But how much failure is right? Too much and the student might experience chaos and withdraw internally or externally. Not enough, and the student will never grow. Small mistakes, which allow for an inquisitive approach, can lead to an excitement for the palatable unknown. By allowing our children certain degrees of failure (i.e. challenges) in a safe environment, we can help to guide them toward growth and development. Competence stems from the parent’s desire and ability to grow and nurture their child.