You've heard from autistic authors. You've heard from therapists. Now hear from one extraordinary young woman who's both.

Experience autism from the inside out through a rare fusion of professional skill and personal understanding. Reshape what you know about the autism spectrum and increase your ability to give support. Varied perspectives among autistic individuals, their families, and professionals have often been difficult to reconcile.

Now, you can bridge that divide with guidance from someone who’s lived in multiple worlds. Find immediate, actionable options to build connections, foster communication, navigate challenges, and enhance interactions. SPECIFIC CONTENT: Part One, AUTISM BASICS, focuses on the definition of autism, what autism is not, and an overview of implications across the spectrum of neurodivergence.

Part Two, COMMUNICATION, discusses effective communication with autistic people, reducing ambiguity, increasing specific content, parent tools for encouraging conversation, relying on verbs, how “Plain Language” helps, when to wait instead of speaking, and the overlooked power of writing to support verbal interaction. Part Three, BEHAVIOR, talks about the logistics of meltdowns and how to handle, cause and effects of stimming and perseveration; recognizing the basis of sensory distortion; outside help and self-advocacy for sensory seekers and sensory avoiders;, Theory of Mind and autistic people’s ability to “read rooms”; reconsidering the value of special interests; all or nothing perspective of “big feelings”; why eye contact can be hard and how to cope; and masking. Part Four, INTERACTIONS, features the truth and implications of loneliness; innate versus learned social skills; the hidden rules causing social complications; encouraging independence; challenges with executive function; a collaborative approach to goal setting; and understanding disability accommodations.

Part Five, COMMON QUESTIONS, addresses the practical reality of DSM-5’s “Diagnostic Levels”; the why and how of therapy for autism; the value of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA); and routes to autism advocacy. ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Following her appearance on the Netflix series Love on the Spectrum, author Kaelynn Partlow, RBT, amplified her social media reach, establishing herself as an influential voice in autism understanding and actionable advocacy. Over almost ten years providing clinical autism services, she has worked with clients spanning different ages and vastly differing levels of ability.

Partlow lives in South Carolina with two supportive roommates and her Labrador, Finn.

In Life on the Bridge, readers are invited into an extraordinary journey through the eyes of an autistic therapist. This remarkable narrative weaves together personal anecdotes and professional insights, offering a bridge between the neurodiverse community and therapeutic practices. By sharing heartfelt stories and groundbreaking approaches, the author seeks to cultivate empathy and understanding for individuals navigating multiple worlds.

Bridging understanding between neurodiverse individuals and traditional therapeutic practices. Offers unique insights from an autistic therapist's perspective. Cultivates empathy acceptance and appreciation for diverse experiences.

Dive into the compelling world of Life on the Bridge, where an autistic therapist candidly shares their experiences in both personal and professional realms. This book challenges conventional perceptions, providing a fresh perspective on autism and therapy alike. Readers will find themselves immersed in a narrative that enlightens and inspires.

Through captivating storytelling, the author highlights the nuanced experiences of living and working as an autistic therapist. The book seamlessly blends real-life stories with professional expertise, creating a tapestry of insight and understanding. Readers will gain an appreciation for the journey of bridging diverse worlds.

Life on the Bridge offers an intimate glimpse into the unique challenges and triumphs faced by neurodiverse individuals in therapeutic settings. Readers are encouraged to explore innovative approaches that prioritize individuality and authenticity. This book invites a transformation of thinking toward inclusivity and acceptance.

The narrative serves not only as a testament to the author's resilience and adaptability but also as a call to action. Readers are inspired to foster environments that celebrate differences, offering support and connection to those who live at the intersections of varied identities. Through its engaging prose, Life on the Bridge leaves an indelible impact, urging readers to reflect on their own perceptions and interactions.

It is a must-read for those seeking to deepen their understanding of autism and the power of empathy.

Life on the Bridge stands out with its authentic voice crafted from the author's unique blend of personal experience and therapeutic expertise Readers gain access to rare insights drawn from lived experience The book challenges the status quo of traditional therapeutic practices offering innovative approaches that honor individuality and neurodiversity It fosters a more inclusive and empathetic practice landscape What truly distinguishes this book is the powerful narrative that bridges two seemingly disparate worlds It illuminates pathways for connection and understanding making it a transformative read for a diverse audience.