027: Understanding Autism with Kristy Forbes

Imagine going through life always wondering why it was so hard to “fit in”. 

My guest this week is Kristy Forbes, and she shares with us how she was diagnosed with autism at the age of 33. As you’ll hear in our conversation, this was a life-changing moment for Kristy in terms of understanding why she had certain tendencies. 

Kristy Forbes is an Australia based autism & neurodiversity support specialist with experience working with a range of clients both nationally and internationally.

Her work is informed by her extensive professional experience as an educator (Early Childhood, Primary and Secondary teaching), as an integration aide to children with social, emotional and behavioural differences, and as a childhood behavioural and family specialist.

Her most valuable insights, however, come from lived experience.

Kristy is autistic herself and also diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA).

She is a mother to four autistic children, ranging from 7 years to 23 years, all with varying autistic expression including non-speaking and PDA.

Listen in as we talk about:

• The definition of autism that Kristy embraces
• Why functioning labels are more harmful than helpful
• Tips to become a more inclusive person and create a more inclusive society
• Why parents can be fearful of telling their children that they’re autistic
• What neurotypical parents can do to help their neurodiverse children
• Key information we all should learn about understanding what it’s like living with autism

Resources mentioned in this episode

• Kristy’s blog post
• Join the inTune Access Support: Family Collective
• Reframing Autism
• The Autistic Advocate

Connect with Kristy

• On Instagram
• Facebook
• Blog
• www.kristyforbes.com.au 

Connect with Sarah Rosensweet  

• On Instagram
• On Facebook
• https://www.sarahrosensweet.com