The Autism Helper Podcast

Sasha Long, M.A., BCBA

Welcome to The Autism Helper Podcast, where we explore different strategies to improve the lives of individuals with autism.

  1. Episode 351: When “What’s the Function?” Isn’t the Right Question

    5D AGO

    Episode 351: When “What’s the Function?” Isn’t the Right Question

    Behavior rarely has just one “why.” In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast, we break down multiply controlled behaviors - what they are, how they show up in classrooms, and why behavior plans often fall short when only one function is addressed. You’ll learn how to recognize when multiple variables are influencing behavior and walk away with practical ways to design more effective, compassionate supports for autistic students. ---------------------------------------------- Interested in our Year-Long Curriculum Access Subscription? Learn more about it here: https://theautismhelper.com/tah-curriculum-access/ Join the waitlist for our Professional Development Membership: https://shop.theautismhelper.com/pages/membership-waitlist Want more information about The Autism Helper Courses? Visit: https://theautismhelper.com/courses/ Looking for a specific product or resource? Find it in our new Autism Helper Store! https://shop.theautismhelper.com/ Or visit The Autism Helper store on TpT: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Autism-Helper Stay up to date on all things Autism Helper by downloading our new, FREE app! Available on both the App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-autism-helper/id1557724340 & Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mightybell.theautismhelper&hl=en_US&gl=US Get all updates from The Autism Helper Podcast by clicking subscribe above. Head over to theautismhelper.com for more info. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest @theautismhelper. Our Sponsors: * Check out Factor: https://factormeals.com/sasha50off * Check out Talkiatry: https://talkiatry.com/SASHA Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    12 min
  2. Episode 350: What To Do When Students Rip Off Schedules?

    JAN 26

    Episode 350: What To Do When Students Rip Off Schedules?

    Visual schedules are a powerful tool for decreasing problem behavior, but what should you do when students start ripping them? In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast, we break down why schedules are an essential strategy and why visual schedules are a must in structured classrooms and therapy settings. Schedule ripping isn’t a sign that schedules don’t work - it’s communication that something needs adjusting. We walk through four practical strategies to address this behavior while keeping schedules in place. First, we discuss the importance of conducting a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) to understand the function behind the ripping. Next, we explore how establishing strong rapport can reduce power struggles and increase student buy-in. We also share how to fade in schedule use by starting with preferred activities, and finally, how small changes to the physical setup of a schedule can make ripping more effortful and less likely. This episode focuses on strengthening - not removing - visual schedules so they continue to support independence, predictability, and positive behavior. ---------------------------------------------- Interested in our Year-Long Curriculum Access Subscription? Learn more about it here: https://theautismhelper.com/tah-curriculum-access/ Join the waitlist for our Professional Development Membership: https://shop.theautismhelper.com/pages/membership-waitlist Want more information about The Autism Helper Courses? Visit: https://theautismhelper.com/courses/ Looking for a specific product or resource? Find it in our new Autism Helper Store! https://shop.theautismhelper.com/ Or visit The Autism Helper store on TpT: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Autism-Helper Stay up to date on all things Autism Helper by downloading our new, FREE app! Available on both the App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-autism-helper/id1557724340 & Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mightybell.theautismhelper&hl=en_US&gl=US Get all updates from The Autism Helper Podcast by clicking subscribe above. Head over to theautismhelper.com for more info. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest @theautismhelper. Our Sponsors: * Check out Factor: https://factormeals.com/sasha50off * Check out Talkiatry: https://talkiatry.com/SASHA Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    14 min
  3. Episode 349: Encore Episode: Deescalation Strategies that Work

    JAN 19

    Episode 349: Encore Episode: Deescalation Strategies that Work

    When a child is in crisis mode, they are not ready to learn. In a meltdown situation, our goal as the adult is to keep the child safe and reflect on how to prevent this in the future. In this episode, we explore what to do in an episode of explosive behavior. We go through the 6 steps of de-escalation on how to safely move the child through the episode. Our role is to maintain safety and provide support without damaging rapport. Learn more about the De-Escalation 101 course here: https://shop.theautismhelper.com/pages/de-escalation ---------------------------------------------- Interested in our Year-Long Curriculum Access Subscription? Learn more about it here: https://theautismhelper.com/tah-curriculum-access/ Join the waitlist for our Professional Development Membership: https://shop.theautismhelper.com/pages/membership-waitlist Want more information about The Autism Helper Courses? Visit: https://theautismhelper.com/courses/ Looking for a specific product or resource? Find it in our new Autism Helper Store! https://shop.theautismhelper.com/ Or visit The Autism Helper store on TpT: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Autism-Helper Stay up to date on all things Autism Helper by downloading our new, FREE app! Available on both the App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-autism-helper/id1557724340 & Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mightybell.theautismhelper&hl=en_US&gl=US Get all updates from The Autism Helper Podcast by clicking subscribe above. Head over to theautismhelper.com for more info. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest @theautismhelper. Our Sponsors: * Check out Factor: https://factormeals.com/sasha50off * Check out Talkiatry: https://talkiatry.com/SASHA Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    19 min
  4. Episode 348: Getting Curious not Furious with ADHD Parent Coach Allison Solomon

    JAN 12

    Episode 348: Getting Curious not Furious with ADHD Parent Coach Allison Solomon

    In this episode, we talk with ADHD parent coach Allison Solomon about shifting from reacting to children’s behavior to getting curious about what’s underneath it. Allison shares how “getting curious, not furious” helps parents see behavior as communication rather than disobedience, and how asking “What is my child struggling with?” can change everything. We explore why certain behaviors trigger parents, how those triggers can point to our own stress and expectations, and what becomes possible when we pause instead of react. We also discuss the unrealistic pressure on parents to stay calm at all times and why giving yourself grace is essential. Allison explains why modeling repair after you lose your cool is one of the most powerful parenting tools, showing kids what to do when emotions run high. This conversation offers compassion, practical insight, and hope for parents navigating everyday challenges. Allison Solomon is an ADHD parent coach who helps parents raise children with ADHD using practical, real-life strategies shaped by her own family’s experience. Connect with Allison: Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/adhdinnercircleacademy Instagram: @allisonleighsolomon Episode Transcription. ---------------------------------------------- Learn more about the De-Escalation 101 course here: https://shop.theautismhelper.com/pages/de-escalation Interested in our Year-Long Curriculum Access Subscription? Learn more about it here: https://theautismhelper.com/tah-curriculum-access/ Join the waitlist for our Professional Development Membership: https://shop.theautismhelper.com/pages/membership-waitlists Want more information about The Autism Helper Courses? Visit: https://theautismhelper.com/courses/ Looking for a specific product or resource? Find it in our new Autism Helper Store! https://shop.theautismhelper.com/ Or visit The Autism Helper store on TpT: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Autism-Helper Stay up to date on all things Autism Helper by downloading our new, FREE app! Available on both the App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-autism-helper/id1557724340 & Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mightybell.theautismhelper&hl=en_US&gl=US Get all updates from The Autism Helper Podcast by clicking subscribe above. Head over to theautismhelper.com for more info. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest @theautismhelper. Our Sponsors: * Check out Factor: https://factormeals.com/sasha50off * Check out Talkiatry: https://talkiatry.com/SASHA Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    33 min
  5. Episode 347: Skill Deficit vs. Capacity Limit with Kaelynn Partlow

    12/09/2025

    Episode 347: Skill Deficit vs. Capacity Limit with Kaelynn Partlow

    In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast, I’m joined by Kaelynn Partlow - autistic advocate, national speaker, and familiar face from the Netflix series Love on the Spectrum. Diagnosed with autism at age 10, Kaelynn has dedicated her career to meaningful inclusion through her work as an RBT with Project Hope and as the author of Life on the Bridge. Together, we unpack the critical difference between a skill deficit and a capacity limit, exploring why this distinction matters for educators, families, and autistic individuals themselves. Kaelynn shares common misconceptions, how misunderstandings can impact independence and employment, and practical ways to determine when to teach a skill versus when to provide an accommodation. This episode offers clear, compassionate guidance for supporting meaningful progress in a way that truly honors individual needs. ---------------------------------------------- Learn more about the De-Escalation 101 course here: https://shop.theautismhelper.com/pages/de-escalation Interested in our Year-Long Curriculum Access Subscription? Learn more about it here: https://theautismhelper.com/tah-curriculum-access/ Join the waitlist for our Professional Development Membership: https://shop.theautismhelper.com/pages/membership-waitlists Want more information about The Autism Helper Courses? Visit: https://theautismhelper.com/courses/ Looking for a specific product or resource? Find it in our new Autism Helper Store! https://shop.theautismhelper.com/ Or visit The Autism Helper store on TpT: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Autism-Helper Stay up to date on all things Autism Helper by downloading our new, FREE app! Available on both the App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-autism-helper/id1557724340 & Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mightybell.theautismhelper&hl=en_US&gl=US Get all updates from The Autism Helper Podcast by clicking subscribe above. Head over to theautismhelper.com for more info. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest @theautismhelper. Our Sponsors: * Check out Factor: https://factormeals.com/sasha50off * Check out Talkiatry: https://talkiatry.com/SASHA Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    16 min
  6. Episode 346: Early Behavioral Indicators of Autism with Dr. Erin Michaud, SLP BCBA-D

    11/24/2025

    Episode 346: Early Behavioral Indicators of Autism with Dr. Erin Michaud, SLP BCBA-D

    In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast, Sasha chats with Dr. Erin Michaud, a Speech-Language Pathologist and BCBA-D with over 20 years of experience supporting infants at high likelihood for autism. Dr. Michaud shares what she’s learning from the Early Markers of Autism Project, including the earliest behavioral indicators to look for and how to distinguish meaningful early signs from typical infant variability. She also discusses how she supports families through her private practice, using NDBI (Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Intervention) strategies to help parents build social and communication skills through everyday routines. We talk about practical, parent-led actions that make a real difference, how to create natural opportunities for connection, and how to navigate the common question: “Should I wait and see, or seek early support?” https://drerinmichaud.com/ ---------------------------------------------- Learn more about the De-Escalation 101 course here: https://shop.theautismhelper.com/pages/de-escalation Interested in our Year-Long Curriculum Access Subscription? Learn more about it here: https://theautismhelper.com/tah-curriculum-access/ Join the waitlist for our Professional Development Membership: https://shop.theautismhelper.com/pages/membership-waitlists Want more information about The Autism Helper Courses? Visit: https://theautismhelper.com/courses/ Looking for a specific product or resource? Find it in our new Autism Helper Store! https://shop.theautismhelper.com/ Or visit The Autism Helper store on TpT: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Autism-Helper Stay up to date on all things Autism Helper by downloading our new, FREE app! Available on both the App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-autism-helper/id1557724340 & Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mightybell.theautismhelper&hl=en_US&gl=US Get all updates from The Autism Helper Podcast by clicking subscribe above. Head over to theautismhelper.com for more info. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest @theautismhelper. Our Sponsors: * Check out Factor: https://factormeals.com/sasha50off * Check out Talkiatry: https://talkiatry.com/SASHA Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    28 min
  7. Episode 345: Responding to Spicy Social Media Comments

    11/17/2025

    Episode 345: Responding to Spicy Social Media Comments

    In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast, we’re turning up the heat! 🔥 I’m diving into four spicy social media comments and unpacking the tough conversations behind them. From the debate over the value of errorless learning, to the real-world challenges of handling aggression in the classroom, and the art of de-escalation strategies- nothing’s off-limits. Join me as I respond candidly, clear up misconceptions, and share practical, compassionate approaches that actually work in the classroom. Whether you’re a teacher, therapist, or parent, this episode will leave you with strategies you can use and food for thought about how we discuss and support behavior in our learners. ---------------------------------------------- Learn more about the De-Escalation 101 course here: https://shop.theautismhelper.com/pages/de-escalation Interested in our Year-Long Curriculum Access Subscription? Learn more about it here: https://theautismhelper.com/tah-curriculum-access/ Join the waitlist for our Professional Development Membership: https://shop.theautismhelper.com/pages/membership-waitlists Want more information about The Autism Helper Courses? Visit: https://theautismhelper.com/courses/ Looking for a specific product or resource? Find it in our new Autism Helper Store! https://shop.theautismhelper.com/ Or visit The Autism Helper store on TpT: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Autism-Helper Stay up to date on all things Autism Helper by downloading our new, FREE app! Available on both the App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-autism-helper/id1557724340 & Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mightybell.theautismhelper&hl=en_US&gl=US Get all updates from The Autism Helper Podcast by clicking subscribe above. Head over to theautismhelper.com for more info. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest @theautismhelper. Our Sponsors: * Check out Factor: https://factormeals.com/sasha50off * Check out Talkiatry: https://talkiatry.com/SASHA Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    13 min
  8. Episode 344: VBMAPP vs. ABLLS

    11/03/2025

    Episode 344: VBMAPP vs. ABLLS

    In this episode, we take a closer look at two widely used assessment tools in both clinical and educational settings: the VB-MAPP (Verbal Behavior Milestones Assessment and Placement Program) and the ABLLS-R (Assessment of Basic Language and Learning Skills – Revised). Aimed at clinicians, special educators, and support staff, this discussion breaks down the core differences between the two tools - covering structure, developmental focus, skill domains, and practical use in programming. We explore which learners each tool best supports, how to use the data to inform IEPs and behavior plans, and why some teams choose to use both for a more comprehensive view of a child’s strengths and needs. Whether you're working in a classroom, a clinic, or across both environments, this episode offers clear, actionable insights to help you select and apply the right assessment tools for your students or clients. ---------------------------------------------- Learn more about the De-Escalation 101 course here: https://shop.theautismhelper.com/pages/de-escalation Interested in our Year-Long Curriculum Access Subscription? Learn more about it here: https://theautismhelper.com/tah-curriculum-access/ Join the waitlist for our Professional Development Membership: https://shop.theautismhelper.com/pages/membership-waitlists Want more information about The Autism Helper Courses? Visit: https://theautismhelper.com/courses/ Looking for a specific product or resource? Find it in our new Autism Helper Store! https://shop.theautismhelper.com/ Or visit The Autism Helper store on TpT: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Autism-Helper Stay up to date on all things Autism Helper by downloading our new, FREE app! Available on both the App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-autism-helper/id1557724340 & Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mightybell.theautismhelper&hl=en_US&gl=US Get all updates from The Autism Helper Podcast by clicking subscribe above. Head over to theautismhelper.com for more info. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest @theautismhelper. Our Sponsors: * Check out Factor: https://factormeals.com/sasha50off * Check out Talkiatry: https://talkiatry.com/SASHA Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    15 min
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4.8
out of 5
474 Ratings

About

Welcome to The Autism Helper Podcast, where we explore different strategies to improve the lives of individuals with autism.

Information

  • Creator
    Sasha Long, M.A., BCBA
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    351
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © The Autism Helper
  • Show Website
    The Autism Helper Podcast

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