Autism Labs

Autism Labs Community
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Practical tips and evidence-based guidance to make life easier for you and your severely autistic loved ones.

  1. 4d ago

    Finding Safe Residential Care for Profound Autism (What We Learned)

    Finding the Right Residential Program for Profound Autism: What Really Matters After more than two decades of searching for the right residential environment for his profoundly autistic son, Mike Carr shares a deeply honest look at what families must consider when evaluating long-term care options. In this episode, Mike explores the limits of AI-driven research after testing multiple platforms and receiving completely inconsistent recommendations. More importantly, he walks through real-life visits to autism residential programs, revealing critical red flags and powerful insights that don’t show up in online reviews. From staff culture and safety concerns to dignity, engagement, and trust, this conversation offers a practical framework for parents, caregivers, and professionals navigating one of the most important decisions in autism care. Key Topics Covered:  • Why AI falls short in evaluating autism residential programs  • Red flags: restraint practices, staff disengagement, lack of transparency  • The importance of staff feedback and parent experiences  • Why visiting multiple times (including off-hours) is essential  • What truly defines quality care for profoundly autistic adults  • How to prioritize dignity, safety, and meaningful engagement This episode is a must-listen for families planning for the future of an autistic child, teen, or adult. 🎧 Watch the full podcast to Download the AI Prompt and Results: https://youtu.be/YzfzITK50vE?si=LoQoSNG8QFxLUbhz

    Finding Safe Residential Care for Profound Autism (What We Learned)

  2. Jul 20

    The Reality of Raising a Profoundly Autistic Adult. Nobody Talks About This

    Some mornings feel impossible but years later, they're the stories that keep us going. In this deeply personal solo episode, Mike Carr steps away from the topic of guardianship to share an unfiltered look at one unforgettable morning caring for his 36-year-old son, Michael, who is profoundly autistic and nonverbal. From soaked bedding and piles of laundry to broken technology, sensory-seeking behaviors, endless glasses of water and bathroom mishaps, Mike walks listeners through the kind of morning that many autism families know all too well. More than a collection of funny stories, this episode highlights an important truth: humor is often one of the most powerful coping tools available to long-term caregivers. Mike also discusses the importance of finding other parents who truly understand the realities of profound autism, sharing experiences without judgment and building a community where families can laugh, vent and encourage one another through life's most challenging days. In this episode you'll discover: The everyday realities of raising an adult with profound autismWhy laughter can reduce caregiver stress and burnoutCommon challenges including incontinence, sensory seeking, pica-like behaviors and communication differencesHow community support helps parents feel less isolatedWhy hope often comes from hearing someone else's storyWhether you're a parent, caregiver, autism professional or simply want a better understanding of profound autism, this episode offers an honest, compassionate look inside daily life that is rarely seen but deeply relatable for many families. If this episode resonates with you, share it with another caregiver who could use a reminder that they're not alone. Watch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/Z_jX8Lujo_s?si=qNTaKQVnDp2LB8uA

    The Reality of Raising a Profoundly Autistic Adult. Nobody Talks About This

  3. Jul 13

    Autism Future Planning: 9 Steps Every Parent Must Take

    What happens to your child with autism when you’re no longer there to care for them? In this episode of Autism Labs, Mike Carr shares a deeply personal and practical guide to future planning for children with autism especially those with higher support needs. After a moment that exposed how unprepared systems can be, Mike walks through a 9-step planning checklist designed to reduce fear, uncertainty and costly mistakes. You’ll learn: • Why getting on Medicaid waiver lists early can mean access to millions in lifetime support  • The critical $2,000 asset rule and how families accidentally lose benefits  • How ABLE accounts and special needs trusts protect your child financially  • What to know about guardianship before your child turns 18  • Why residential planning should start years before it’s needed  • How to create a Letter of Intent to guide future caregivers This episode is not legal or financial advice but it is real-world guidance from a parent who has lived it. 🎧 Watch the full podcast to Download the free 1-page checklist on the comment section: https://youtu.be/AdVUyESJF1w?si=l3hHOl5M1mlj3bEI

    Autism Future Planning: 9 Steps Every Parent Must Take

  4. Jul 6

    What Happens to My Autistic Child When I’m Gone?

    What happens to your child with autism when you’re no longer there to care for them? It’s one of the most difficult and most important questions parents face. In this episode, Mike Carr shares his personal journey as the father of a 36-year-old son with profound autism. From early fears to real-world planning, this episode lays the foundation for what families need to know about lifelong care. You’ll learn: Why planning not worrying is the key to protecting your child’s futureThe 5 essential pillars of long-term autism planning:GuardianshipSpecial needs trustLetter of intentResidential transitionFunding and benefitsHow one financial mistake could cost families millions in lost benefitsWhy Medicaid waiver lists should be your first step and why timing mattersThis episode is part of a step-by-step series designed to help families move from fear to action. Watch the full podcast here: https://youtu.be/88vmu0whLxw?si=T3fwd-HO0TR4GVJi ⚠️ Disclaimer: This episode shares personal experience and is not legal or financial advice. Please consult qualified professionals for guidance.

    What Happens to My Autistic Child When I’m Gone?

  5. Jun 29

    Don't Underestimate What Your Nonverbal Teen Understands with Mailande Vise

    In this episode of Autism Labs, Mike Carr continues his conversation with BCBA Mailande Vise, who shares practical, experience-driven strategies for supporting individuals with high support needs especially in the home environment. Mailande breaks down how parents can better understand and respond to challenging behaviors by identifying their underlying function. From sensory needs to attention-seeking, escape or access to preferred items, this episode explains how behavior is communication and how to teach more effective alternatives. The discussion also explores the critical difference between receptive and expressive language, highlighting how many nonverbal individuals understand far more than they can express. Mailande shares how visual supports, choice boards and communication devices can unlock meaningful interaction. Listeners will also learn: How to structure the home environment for successWhy reinforcement strategies matter and how to avoid common mistakesThe importance of parent training and consistencyHow to prevent regression during breaks and unstructured timeWhy starting small leads to long-term successThis episode is especially valuable for parents, caregivers and professionals supporting adolescents and young adults with autism. Mailande’s message is clear. Progress is possible and small wins matter. 📩 Contact Mailande Vise:  Email: mailande@viseabatherapy.com  Phone: 601-291-0339  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mailande-vise-3448a0110/ If you're interested in joining our private Facebook community for parents and caregivers seeking residential options, guidance and peer support for profoundly autistic adults or adults with complex needs - Click Here!

    Don't Underestimate What Your Nonverbal Teen Understands with Mailande Vise

  6. Jun 22

    Small Tweaks at Home can Improve Your Autistic Teen's Life with Mailande Vise

    What happens when autistic children grow into autistic adults? In this episode of Autism Labs, Mike Carr sits down with Mailande Vise, M.Ed., BCBA, an experienced behavior analyst with more than a decade of experience supporting autistic individuals across a wide range of ages and support needs. Together they discuss one of the most pressing issues facing families today: the shortage of specialized programs and trained professionals for autistic teens and adults. Mailande shares her firsthand experiences working with individuals with profound autism, including the challenges clinics face when supporting older learners with significant communication and behavioral needs. She also offers practical strategies for parents and caregivers, including identifying triggers, using visual supports, implementing environmental modifications, and creating proactive behavior plans. The conversation explores the growing neurodiversity movement, the importance of communication systems, and innovative community-based programs that help autistic individuals build independence, vocational skills, and meaningful connections. If you're a parent, caregiver, educator, therapist, or autism professional wondering what comes after early intervention, this episode provides valuable insights, practical tools, and reasons for hope. Topics Covered: • Adult autism services • Profound autism support • ABA therapy strategies • Visual schedules and social stories • Communication systems • Behavioral support planning • Neurodiversity acceptance • Community integration • Vocational training programs • Autism transition planning Guest: Mailande Vise, BCBA Connect with Mailande: Email: mailande@viseabatherapy.com  Phone: 601-291-0339 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mailande-vise-3448a0110/ Autism Labs explores practical solutions, expert insights, and real-life experiences to help families navigate the journey of autism across the lifespan. If you're interested in joining our private Facebook community for parents and caregivers seeking residential options, guidance and peer support for profoundly autistic adults or adults with complex needs - Click Here!

    Small Tweaks at Home can Improve Your Autistic Teen's Life with Mailande Vise

  7. Jun 15

    Part 2 of Autism Parenting Strategies That Actually Work: What I Learned from Dr. Theresa Lyons

    Autism support should focus not just on behavior, but on the child’s overall health, as underlying issues like gut imbalances, poor nutrition, and unmet medical needs can significantly impact learning, behavior, and communication. While traditional education approaches like ABA can help, children often learn best when their intrinsic interests and curiosity are engaged. A personalized, science-based approach, using proper testing rather than guesswork, is essential since every child is biologically unique. Progress may look different, but celebrating small wins and maintaining a strong, positive mindset is critical for families. Communication, in any form, can unlock a child’s hidden intelligence and dramatically improve care and connection. Although AI can provide information, real progress comes from guided action and human support. Ultimately, parents play the central role in assembling the right care team and advocating for their child’s health, with the goal not of a “cure,” but of achieving the best possible outcome and quality of life. If you're interested in joining our private Facebook community for parents and caregivers seeking residential options, guidance and peer support for profoundly autistic adults or adults with complex needs - Click Here!

    Part 2 of Autism Parenting Strategies That Actually Work: What I Learned from Dr. Theresa Lyons

  8. Jun 8

    Part 1 of Autism Parenting Strategies: What Science Really Shows

    In this episode of Autism Labs, Mike Carr and Dr. Theresa Lyons discuss how many families lack access to clear, science-based guidance despite growing research in autism, leaving parents overwhelmed and searching for answers. Dr. Lyons highlights that meaningful improvement is possible for some children, but requires a more informed, proactive approach built around seven key areas: personalized diet, a multi-disciplinary healthcare team that combines conventional and functional medicine, strong parent mindset and regulation, foundational health through supplements like vitamin D and proper hydration, tailored education strategies, attention to gut health, and consistently celebrating progress. She emphasizes the importance of asking “why” behind symptoms rather than accepting them as inevitable, and notes that simple interventions, such as improving vitamin D levels or increasing physical activity, can significantly impact sleep, behavior, and overall well-being. The core message is that autism care should be individualized, root-cause focused, and guided by accessible, trustworthy information that empowers parents to make better decisions for their child’s future. If you're interested in joining our private Facebook community for parents and caregivers seeking residential options, guidance and peer support for profoundly autistic adults or adults with complex needs - Click Here!

    Part 1 of Autism Parenting Strategies: What Science Really Shows
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Practical tips and evidence-based guidance to make life easier for you and your severely autistic loved ones.

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  • Creator
    Autism Labs Community
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    67
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Autism Labs
  • Show Website
    Autism Labs

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