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.

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

Episode 4 of the 4-part mini-series

See Episode 1 here, Episode 2 here and Episode 3 here

Can DIRFloortime® help autistic adults, too?

 

In this final episode of the Rethinking Autism Therapy mini-series, Daria Brown is joined by clinical developmental psychologist and DIRFloortime® Expert and Training Leader Dr. Kathy Platzman to explore how the DIR® model can support autistic adults, late-diagnosed individuals, and anyone seeking greater self-understanding, self-advocacy, and emotional growth.
 
Together, they discuss how DIRFloortime® extends far beyond childhood intervention. Rather than focusing on deficits, the model emphasizes relationships, individual differences, strengths, and human development across the lifespan. Dr. Platzman explains how DIR’s developmental framework can help adults better understand their sensory profiles, emotional regulation needs, personal strengths, and patterns of connection with others.
 
They explore topics such as masking, self-advocacy, trauma, neurodiversity, sensory differences, self-regulation, and the importance of discovering what brings joy and meaning to life. Through personal stories and reflections, Daria and Kathy demonstrate how DIRFloortime® can provide a roadmap for understanding ourselves with greater compassion and helping others do the same.
 
Learn more:

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!

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