Robert Schmus

I present my experience of working with those on the spectrum while being autistic myself. The audience will learned what perspectives a person on the spectrum can bring, the transference that occurs, and what can be learned professionally and personally from it. I also go into detail on my life being autistic and how it shaped me to who I am today.

In this presentation, my colleague and I discuss the dangers of masking autism. For instance, masking autism can lead to a great deal of anxiety and depression to the autistic person. We also describe how certain autistic characteristics can be a strength for the autistic individual, such as how stimming can help with managing anxiety.

This was an organized presentation with a colleague, in which we shared personal stories, experiences, and advice with parents and professionals about self-advocacy on the autism spectrum.