Rethinking Autism Therapy mini-series Episode 2 of 4 on the Autistic Culture Podcast Network

PHOTO CREDIT: Autistic Culture Podcast Network

Rethinking Autism Therapy is a four-part mini-series for parents, caregivers, professionals, and Autistic individuals who want to learn about DIRFloortime®, a strength-based, developmental, relationship-driven approach to growth and connection.

Play on Spotify

Play on Apple Podcasts

Play on YouTube

You can also subscribe on your preferred podcast app by searching, “Rethinking Autism Therapy”

RSS Feed Player

Episode 2 of the 4-part mini-series

See Episode 1 here

What does DIRFloortime® actually feel like from the perspective of an autistic person?

In this second episode of Rethinking Autism Therapy, Daria Brown is joined by autistic musician Cheyenne Erikson to explore what it was like growing up with situational mutism, anxiety, and an undiagnosed autistic neurotype, and how a relationship-based, developmental approach helped her feel understood and supported. Cheyenne shares her personal journey from an early diagnosis of situational mutism to discovering her autistic identity as a young adult.

Together, she and Daria discuss how DIRFloortime’s emphasis on relationships, individual differences, play, and emotional connection contrasts with more directive or compliance-based approaches. Through stories from childhood, teaching, parenting, and clinical practice, they illustrate how following a child’s lead, presuming competence, and supporting regulation can foster authentic communication and growth.

The conversation highlights the importance of understanding the world through a neurodivergent lens, recognizing the many ways children communicate, and creating safe opportunities for exploration, play, and emotional expression. Listeners will gain insight into how DIRFloortime® supports not only autistic children, but meaningful relationships across the lifespan.

Learn more:

Cheyenne Erikson’s website

Cheyenne’s Instagram

Situational Mutism

Cheyenne’s SLP mother’s Situational Mutism cards

Hosted by Daria Brown, each episode features a different co-host to explore what DIRFloortime® is, what it’s like to experience it, why it meets Autistic needs, and how to decide whether it’s the right approach for you.

Together, they share practical insights and tools for building meaningful connection and supporting social-emotional development in ways that honour each autistic individual.

Through conversations with practitioners, parents, and autistic voices, the series offers an accessible introduction to the DIRFloortime® framework while exploring the role of relationships, play, and connection in supporting autistic development.

Produced for the Autistic Culture Podcast Network.

🎧 Rethinking Autism Therapy is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcastnetwork.com

📲 Follow on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

Until next time, here’s to choosing play and experiencing joy every day!